Best Campgrounds near Shoals, IN

Camping near Shoals, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Fishing and Boating: Patoka Lake Campground is a great spot for fishing and boating. One visitor mentioned, "Patoka has always had a hype about it for years; big lake, tons of boats, and fishing."
• Hiking: Explore the trails at Paynetown Campground. A camper noted, "There are some pit toilets & one flush toilet building. No showers. No electricity."
• Nature Center: Visit the nature center at Patoka Lake Campground for a serene escape. One reviewer said, "The nature center is a delightful feature, offering a serene escape into the beauty of the surrounding area."

What campers like

• Spacious Campsites: Many campers appreciate the roomy sites at Hardin Ridge. A visitor shared, "Beautiful spacious sites. Spread out with plenty of room between sites."
• Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the facilities. One reviewer at Starve Hollow State Rec Area said, "Clean facilities. Quite the hidden gem."
• Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere is a highlight for many. A camper at Lake Rudolph Campground noted, "All of the staff is very friendly."

What you should know

• No Water Hookups: At Patoka Lake Campground, there are no water hookups. A visitor reminded, "It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site."
• Busy on Weekends: Expect crowds, especially during summer weekends at Paynetown Campground. One camper mentioned, "This is a SRA on the shores of Lake Monroe... it was completely full."
• Limited Cell Service: Some campgrounds have poor cell service. A reviewer at Indiana Starve Hollow State Recreation Area noted, "Verizon is one bar."

Tips for camping with families

• Check for Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. Lake Rudolph Campground offers golf cart rentals and fun events. One family said, "We absolutely loved it. All of the staff is very friendly."
• Safety First: Be cautious of wildlife, especially at Patoka Lake Campground. A camper warned, "MAKE SURE TO PUT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FOOD!!! Even scraps and Yes even DOG FOOD."
• Choose Shady Sites: Look for campsites that offer shade, especially during hot summer days. A visitor at Shakamak State Park mentioned, "Most of the sites are shady."

Tips from RVers

• Level Sites: Check the level of your campsite before setting up. A reviewer at Taylor Ridge Campground said, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site which needed level blocks."
• Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has electric hookups. A camper at Terre Haute Campground noted, "No issues with utilities as they are smartly placed on the pad."
• Plan for Tight Spaces: Be prepared for close quarters at some campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Rudolph Campground mentioned, "Sites are very close together."

Camping around Shoals, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!