Southern Indiana's camping options range from riverfront sites along the Ohio River to seasonal campgrounds near Holiday World theme park. The Ohio River Valley around Derby sees warm, humid summers with temperatures routinely reaching the 90s, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. Several RV campgrounds near Derby, Indiana provide strategic access to the region's attractions with varying levels of amenities and seasonal programming.
What to do
Creek exploration: Sycamore Springs Park has multiple creek access points for wading and swimming in warm weather. "We've been camping there for three years! Clean and very well tended! Bathrooms with running water and showers. Free firewood is provided. This is a very kid friendly place for families," writes Laura D.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campsites offer fishing access, including Sycamore Springs Park which maintains a stocked pond. "My wife and I went to Sycamore Springs Park a few weeks ago and stayed for 3 days. We tent camped and it was fantastic. We were right at the lake edge," reports Barry B.
Holiday World visits: For theme park enthusiasts, camping near Santa Claus provides convenient access to Holiday World's rides and water attractions. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph is "conveniently located beside one of the best theme parks in the midwest, Holiday World. Holiday World and Splashing Safari has a huge, awesome, water park, and a couple of the 10 best wooden roller coasters on the planet," according to Rick B.
What campers like
Halloween-themed events: The October programming at select campgrounds creates special experiences. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day!" shares Ashley D.
Ohio River views: Horseshoe Bend RV Campground provides waterfront camping with scenic vistas. "Great views of the Ohio River and an occasional barge. We will certainly try to get back here in the future," writes Randy S.
Free firewood: Some campgrounds in the area offer complimentary firewood, which campers appreciate. "Free firewood is provided," confirms Laura D. about Sycamore Springs Park, while another camper mentions, "They even have free firewood! Would definitely go back."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many RV campgrounds near Derby operate seasonally, with limited winter options. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph runs from May through October, with peak crowding during summer and Halloween events.
Variable spacing between sites: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Grand Trails RV Park, "all the RV's are right next to each other... No picnic tables, ni fire rings, no grills (no space)," according to Sofia A.
Military-only campground option: Camp Carlson Army RV Park is restricted to military personnel, retirees and government employees. "Very clean and pleasant stay. Quiet and peaceful. Located conveniently near Louisville, Fort Knox, and central Kentucky area," notes Jim C.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground access: Sycamore Springs Park features numerous play areas. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores, fresh black topped roads, and such friendly staff. Clean bathrooms and showers, and beautiful places to visit also. Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground," writes Cora P.
Theme park proximity benefits: When visiting Holiday World, consider location advantages. "It is conveniently located beside one of the best theme parks in the midwest, Holiday World," confirms Rick B. about Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph.
Child-friendly alcohol policies: Some family-oriented campgrounds prohibit alcohol to maintain a family atmosphere. At Sycamore Springs Park, "It's a very family oriented campground with more rules than many campgrounds, such as no alcohol. They want it to be kid friendly and not a party destination," explains Tonya C.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant effort to level RVs properly. At Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, "Sites are not so level but located in a nice wooded area and well maintained interior roads and facilities," according to Rick B.
Cell service considerations: Not all campgrounds offer reliable connectivity. At Camp Carlson, "The ONLY bad thing about this campground is that it is in a bowl -- no cell service, no satellite, no internet. Perfect for a QUIET getaway!!" notes Felicia H.
Truck stop RV options: For overnight stays, Love's RV Hookup offers convenient access but with drawbacks. "The price is HIGH. With discounts for goodsam and loves connect it was $50/night for 30 amp. The dog park at this loves is very nice and the spaces are okay. But it's loud all night because it's a truck stop," warns John F.
