O'Bannon Woods State Park offers a range of camping experiences near Corydon, Indiana, in the rolling hills of southern Indiana where the terrain ranges from 400 to 700 feet in elevation. The area features limestone formations and numerous creeks feeding into the Ohio River. Traditional campsites provide alternatives to luxury accommodations, with temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer.
What to do
Hiking exploration: 25-mile Adventure Trail at O'Bannon Woods State Park connects campers to numerous hiking paths of varying difficulty. "One of the benefits of this site is that the cave and gift shop are right there, so you have a cool opportunity to take a tour and then stay in the same area," notes a Marengo Cave visitor. The trail system includes rugged terrain with elevation changes.
Cave tours: Marengo Cave National Landmark offers two distinct tour options - the Dripslide Caverns and Crystal Palace Cavern. "I was really surprised that in my 30 years of living in Indiana, I had never been to Marengo Cave. It's both great for kids and adults," reports a camper. Tours run throughout the day with special experiences available for scout troops.
Fishing: Multiple lakes with stocked fish provide fishing opportunities in the region. At Indian-Celina Recreation Area, "two lakes within the recreation area to fish and boat in. During mid August, Celina lake has freshwater jellyfish that you can catch," shares one visitor. Electric motors only are permitted on these lakes.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Wooded privacy at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground offers a quiet retreat. "Moderately wooded, well spaced, basic sites that provide privacy and shade. There are walk in sites as well with picnic table and fire ring," explains a camper. Sites are spaced far enough apart to feel like you own the place.
Water activities: Creek-side camping provides natural water features at several campgrounds. At Marengo Cave Campgrounds, "The camp sites are pretty small, but are aligned along a small stream. Camp store, cave tours, gift shop, and other pay activities are within steps of camping." Swimming and kayaking opportunities exist at nearby Blue River.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses enhance the camping experience. "Bath house was heated, extremely clean with flush toilets, and continual hot water," reports a Marengo Cave visitor. Most campgrounds offer modern restroom facilities with showers, while more remote sites feature vault toilets.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Heavy tick presence in southern Indiana forests requires preparation. A camper at Indian-Celina Recreation Area warns, "The ticks here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all sides. Bring your bug stuff!" Insect repellent is essential during warm months.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds near Corydon require reservations, especially during summer weekends and fall color season. Some areas like Youngs Creek Horse Camp operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited spots.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience ambient noise. "The campsite rests below the route to Louisville's international airport. For an hour or two in the morning and afternoon, huge jets fly right over the campgrounds," notes a Jefferson Memorial Forest camper. Consider location when seeking a quiet experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Charlestown State Park offers swimming opportunities and kid-friendly trails. "We love coming here annually for Mother's Day weekend. This campground has a lot to offer but is focused for seasonal camping," shares a visitor. The paved trails are suitable for children's bikes and scooters.
Halloween festivities: Special seasonal events create memorable experiences for families. At Otter Creek Park Campground, "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat. There is even a group who does a haunted house and it is so fun!"
Nature center visits: Educational opportunities enhance family camping trips. O'Bannon Woods State Park features a nature center with ranger programs. "Nice state park with electric and water hookups. Clean restrooms, great nature center with ranger tours," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds have electrical service but limited water and sewer connections. "The campground was really nice and relatively quiet. There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," explains an O'Bannon Woods camper.
Leveling considerations: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However, many of the other spots were on hills and right on top of each other."
Road access challenges: Interior roads at some campgrounds present navigation difficulties. "Driving in and out was a bit challenging mainly because a lot of people parked their vehicles/golf carts at the edge of the road or partly on it," notes an RV camper at Lake Rudolph. Plan arrival during daylight hours to navigate camp roads more easily.
