Camping in southern Indiana's Hoosier National Forest offers diverse terrain with rolling hills and forested landscapes between 400-700 feet elevation. The area features numerous lakes and streams with limited cell service in many locations. Most camping areas remain open from mid-April through mid-October when temperatures typically range from 60-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Hiking variety: Two Rivers Trail connects Indian and Celina lakes with a 15-mile path through varied terrain. "We really enjoyed the hiking at this site. The trails were long, but not difficult, but slightly overgrown. The had very pretty views of the lake," notes a visitor to Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Nature center exploration: O'Bannon Woods features educational exhibits with ranger-led activities. "Great nature center with ranger tours. Several hiking trails with various difficulties," shares a camper at O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Cave tours: Underground explorations available within 30 minutes of Derby. "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... there are two different parts to explore. The dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern," reports a visitor to Marengo Cave Campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites for a more secluded glamping in Derby, Indiana experience. "Each site was spacious and not jammed up against other sites. It is very family oriented with plenty of friendly campers. I camped in the north loop and enjoyed the beautiful forest setting," mentions a reviewer at Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Unique nature encounters beyond jellyfish. "During mid August, Celina lake has freshwater Jellyfish that you can catch," notes a camper at Celina Recreation Area.
Historical features: Some camping areas contain remnants of early settlements. "The Rickenbaugh Historic family home and cemetery are located in the far side of the boat ramp with a kiosk and 1 mile Interpretive trail that tells the story of the area," explains a visitor describing the amenities near Celina Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal pest concerns: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months. "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns a camper at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Signal strength varies throughout the region. "Cell service was OK. (T-Mobile 1-2 bars LTE and AT&T 1-3 bars)," reports a visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Cash requirements: Some facilities don't accept credit cards. "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you," advises a camper about North Face Loop.
Water access limitations: Not all sites have direct water hookups. "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 a visitor to O'Bannon Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: While some lakes prohibit swimming, alternatives exist. "While swimming isn't permitted in these lakes, you can drive approximately 10 minutes to Tipsaw Lake's beach for swimming access," notes a camper at Vastwood Co Park.
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with kids. "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted)... The better playground is in loop A," shares a visitor to O'Bannon Woods.
Educational activities: Look for ranger-led programs. "The hosts were very nice and friendly. They introduced themselves in the first hour we were there and invited us to a couple of free events and made recommendations on the best hikes for what we wanted to see," reports a camper at Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," warns an RVer at O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Utility considerations: Electric hookups vary between campgrounds. "A nice large newer showerhouse, water points, picnic tables and fire rings to finish off the homeyness," describes a visitor to Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground.
Site dimensions: Many sites accommodate small to mid-sized rigs better than large ones. "The sites are not so level but located in a nice wooded area and well maintained interior roads and facilities," notes an RV camper about the glamping options near Derby, Indiana.
