Camping options near French Lick, Indiana include both developed campgrounds and primitive sites within the Hoosier National Forest at elevations between 400-600 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and mild springs and falls ideal for camping. Winter camping remains available at select locations with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F.
What to do
Cave exploration at nearby parks: Marengo Cave Campgrounds provides immediate access to geological wonders just steps from campsites. "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. The people are super friendly and there are two different parts to explore. The dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern," notes reviewer Tiffany T.
Trail hiking around forest lakes: The Two Rivers Trail offers a challenging 15-mile technical route around both Indian and Celina lakes in the Hoosier National Forest. "We hiked extensively and though this is definitely not mountainous terrain it will give you a work out. A lot of cool rock formations and wild life to be seen," writes Shelly S. about Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Boating on electric-only lakes: Indian-Celina Recreation Area features two lakes where only electric motors are permitted, creating a peaceful environment for fishing and paddling. "Two lakes within the recreation area to fish and boat in. During mid August, Celina lake has freshwater Jellyfish that you can catch," shares Jennifer D.
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: Many campsites in the area provide excellent conditions for night sky viewing. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, Elizabeth W. remarks: "The chorus frog do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people."
Budget-friendly options: Free or low-cost camping is available at several locations in the area. "Secluded camping area with horse hitch. 5 - 6 primitive spots with fire rings and tables. Very little privacy. Tents and vans only," notes Michael U. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds feature generously sized sites for comfortable camping. At Indian-Celina Recreation Area, Nancy R. observes: "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."
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Ticks are particularly problematic throughout the French Lick camping region. "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!" warns a reviewer about Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground.
Quiet camping atmosphere: Unlike resort-style glamping in French Lick, many forest campgrounds offer a more serene experience. "This is no loud party hub with people blowing by on their golf carts and playing music until 2 in the morning. Moderately wooded, well spaced, basic sites that provide privacy and shade," explains Shelly S.
Cash needed at some locations: Some campgrounds require cash payment. A reviewer notes: "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you." Rangers and hosts may have limited availability, especially on weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Educational opportunities for children exist at multiple locations. At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, a visitor shared: "We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms. My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails."
Swimming options: Several locations offer swimming beaches during summer months. "A large beach is available for swimming from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Restrooms, dressing facilities, showers, and food concessions are available to visitors," notes a camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Kid-friendly guided tours: Cave tours designed specifically for families provide educational entertainment. "There are extra activities for the kids such as mining and a nice gift shop for any rock lover out there. I highly recommend and they had cabins to camp in as well," writes Tiffany T. about Marengo Cave Campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: For RV glamping near French Lick, several campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground, James L. explains: "The campground also offers electric only sites. They have about 20 sites that back up right to the lake allowing fishing from your campsite. Keep in mind that a lot of the electric only sites are very tight with a lot of trees in the area."
Site size considerations: Large rigs may have difficulty at some locations. "We stayed in the full hookup section. These sites are a good size and able to get any size Trailer or RV into these sites. There is mostly grass on most of the sites in this area," notes a reviewer about Starve Hollow.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds with RV hookups operate seasonally rather than year-round. "We are here in the fall but the beach looks like a good size. Boat rentals. Cabins look cute. DNR dont patrol a lot. Quiet campground," observes J C.
