Marengo Cave Campground sits within a karst topography region of southern Indiana, an area known for its limestone formations, sinkholes, and extensive cave systems. The terrain varies with elevations ranging from 400 to 900 feet above sea level, with numerous waterways cutting through the landscape. In fall, temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, creating ideal conditions for exploring the unique glamping opportunities in English, Indiana.
What to do
Cave exploration beyond guided tours: While Crystal Palace and Dripstone tours are popular, visitors at Marengo Cave Campgrounds can also participate in more adventurous options. "I stayed in late October and I was the only one there, except for a family in the cabins. You can bring small pets inside the cave if you carry them all time. I have a small zuchon and carry her in a doggy backpack, she loved it!" shares a visitor.
Disc golf and outdoor games: Sleeping Bear Retreat offers additional recreational activities beyond standard camping. According to a camper, "They have disc golf, huge chess, and paintball!" These activities provide alternatives when you need a break from cave exploration or hiking.
Fishing opportunities: Celina Lake and Indian Lake provide fishing spots for anglers looking to catch various species. As one visitor to Indian-Celina Recreation Area notes, "Nice quiet and a Great Lake to go fishing." Another camper adds, "During mid August, Celine lake has freshwater Jellyfish that you can catch."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the space between campsites in this region. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, a visitor noted, "Great quit place to rest up for a few nights. The site has a toilet and water." Another camper at Indian-Celina Recreation Area shared, "Most of the sites are rather private from each other. The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets."
Dark skies for stargazing: The limited light pollution in this area creates excellent stargazing conditions. A camper at Sleeping Bear Retreat observed, "It is so dark at night that you can see the stars! Biggest lots too, you can fit like 10 tents and still have space to move!!"
Seasonal beauty: Fall brings spectacular colors to the forests around English, Indiana. A visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground commented, "The campground sites are spacious and lots of shade in the summer. Beautiful in the fall!" The changing foliage creates a dramatic backdrop for luxury camping experiences in the area.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most glamping sites near English, Indiana have minimal connectivity. A visitor to Marengo Cave Campgrounds noted, "No cell service," making it ideal for those wanting to disconnect but challenging if you need to stay in touch.
Accessibility considerations: Not all camping areas have the same level of accessibility. At Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground, a camper observed, "The campsite is quite nice and is equipped with fire rings and restrooms. They do offer short hikes with cuts through the trees."
Tick prevention essential: The wooded areas around English have significant tick populations. One camper warned, "I thought LBL, Ky was bad, the tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Families with children can enjoy various water features. A visitor to Indian-Celina Recreation Area noted, "We loved this campground. We were there 3 nights. 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."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. At O'Bannon Woods State Park, a visitor mentioned, "nice state park. several shaded sites w electric and water hookups. clean restrooms. great nature center w ranger tours. several hiking trails w various difficulties."
Trail difficulty planning: When hiking with children, check trail ratings first. A camper at Indian-Celina Recreation Area shared, "We really enjoyed the hiking at this site. The trails were long, but not too difficult, but slightly overgrown. They had very pretty views of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the area require leveling equipment. A visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park noted, "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use."
Water access planning: RVers should note water availability varies by campground. According to a camper, "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."
Site selection for larger rigs: Carefully review site specifications before booking. A camper recommended, "The sites are not so level but located in a nice wooded area and well maintained interior roads and facilities."
