Dispersed camping near Corydon, Indiana centers around the Hoosier National Forest, where elevation ranges between 400-700 feet through moderately rolling terrain. The forest encompasses over 200,000 acres with limestone formations and seasonal creeks that often run dry during summer months. Primitive camping opportunities vary significantly in accessibility, with most sites requiring high-clearance vehicles or hiking to reach.
What to do
Fossil hunting along creek beds: The Mitchell Creek area features exposed limestone with abundant marine fossils. One camper at Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed noted, "There are rock outcroppings along this road, which follows Mitchell Creek and lots to explore on foot."
Turtle spotting on forest roads: Forest roads provide opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly eastern box turtles. A visitor mentioned, "Lookout for turtles on the road, we spotted and removed 4 of them" while camping at Mitchell Creek.
Backpacking preparation: The Knobstone Trail serves as excellent training for longer thru-hikes. A reviewer advised, "Let someone know your itinerary, have a means for filtering water, and enjoy!"
Historic site exploration: Several small pioneer-era graveyards can be found near dispersed camping areas. One camper at Mitchell Creek Road reported, "The place I camped had a small graveyard behind it, so if you're superstitious, this may not be for you."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: The thick deciduous forest provides privacy at most sites. A Mitchell Creek Road camper appreciated that "only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet."
Water access: Many primitive sites offer creek access when water is flowing. At Hoosier National Forest, campers can find "Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods" with seasonal water sources nearby.
Challenging terrain: The topography provides physical challenges for hikers. A Knobstone Trail user explained, "It's no walk in the park. There are continuous ups and downs that will challenge your leg strength and footing at times."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution allows for stargazing opportunities. Campers report hearing "what was possibly a large band of coyotes in the distance" while enjoying the night atmosphere.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads can be problematic, particularly after rain. A visitor to Mitchell Creek Road observed, "A few of the pull offs I didn't explore because they were muddy or washed out after several days of rain."
Site availability: Designated sites are limited and informal. One camper clarified, "There is no camp ground. There are just a couple of sites along the road. One is at the trail crossing for horses, hikers, and bikers. Its basically a make your own campsite."
Navigation challenges: Paper maps are essential as digital navigation often fails. A camper advised, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty."
Vehicle limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate larger vehicles. "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around. One pull off was nearly too small to turn around my small pick up truck."
Tips for camping with families
Water filtration: Seasonal creeks require proper filtration equipment. A Knobstone Trail hiker noted, "You're never too far from water, although the quality may differ depending on the time of year."
Location sharing: Due to poor cell service, establish clear plans with family members. Jackson Trailhead visitors recommend: "there's parking after a decrepit gravel road and suitable for camping. there are campsites along the trail just have to find them."
Bug protection: Insect activity varies by season but can be intense. "The area was rather buggy," reported one camper, while another mentioned, "We went briefly down to the creek, but it was very buggy and not very nice to hike."
Solo camping considerations: Some areas may feel isolated for single travelers. One reviewer cautioned, "If you are solo female traveler don't even waste your time."
Tips from RVers
Small vehicle camping only: The dispersed sites near Corydon work best for car camping or small vans. A Mitchell Creek Road camper explained, "If you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle, this is quiet, secluded, and beautiful."
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads rarely provide sufficient space for larger rigs to maneuver. "It took me 20 [minutes] from route 64 to find this place... after 5 min of driving on the very skinny gravel road y saw what it look like spots but Iam not sure really."
Self-contained systems required: With no facilities available, campers must bring everything needed. A visitor noted one spot was "flat enough for a tent mostly just a single person spot no toilets."
