Camping facilities in Hoosier National Forest span over 200,000 acres of forested hills in southern Indiana, with elevations ranging from 450 to 900 feet above sea level. The region features karst topography with limestone caves and sinkholes. Most primitive campgrounds remain open year-round, though seasonal restrictions apply to glamping accommodations and facilities with water hookups during winter months.
What to do
Hiking the Knobstone Trail: The 50-mile Knobstone Trail near Delaney Creek Park offers challenging terrain with significant elevation changes. "The Delaney Loop in about 6 hours (7.5 miles and 2000 ft elevation change) a good challenge for all ages. Trail is well marked and maps at gate," explains James M., who visited Delaney Creek Park.
Cave exploration: Beyond Marengo, several additional caves dot the region. "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," notes Tiffany T. from Sleeping Bear Retreat.
Water activities: Lake Monroe offers multiple boating options through scout camps. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing... Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails," reports Margo B. about Ransburg Scout Reservation.
Primitive camping: For those seeking solitude, Young's Creek provides backcountry sites. "Secluded camping area with horse hitch. 5-6 primitive spots with fire rings and tables. Very little privacy. Tents and vans only," shares Michael U. from Young's Creek Horse Camp.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies create excellent viewing conditions throughout the forest. "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," writes Elizabeth W. about Young's Creek.
Affordable yurt camping: Yurt and teepee accommodations in Hoosier National Forest provide budget alternatives to cabins. "All you need to bring is a blanket and food this place has the rest," says Hibbidy D. about the teepees at Sleeping Bear Retreat.
Lakefront sites: Waterfront camping spots are highly sought after. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," notes Martin M. about Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Quiet atmosphere: The less-developed areas offer peaceful settings. "Peaceful camping area with horse, drive in and walk-in camping. There's a privy and water on site. Campsites have fire rings and picnic tables. There is a trail that loops back to the site for easy hiking access," describes David M. from Young's Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the forest. "There is not a camp store, so make sure you have all the supplies you need or you'll have to make a trip to Salem, which is only about a 20 min drive. There's excellent cell service, no WiFi," reports Kelsie E. about Delaney Creek Park.
Terrain challenges: Many sites feature uneven ground. "Sites for RVs are concrete and you will need to level some on all of them. They have electric and water. Reasonable prices. Our only complaint is you can't get near the water to fish anywhere by the lake due to the weeds," explains Pamela H. about Delaney Creek Park.
Seasonal facilities: Water access points operate seasonally. "Jackson-Washington State forest encompasses 16,500 plus acres in the rolling hills of south central Indiana... The campground consists of 62 primitive class 'C' self registration sites with a picnic table. Potable water is available seasonally and firewood can be purchased at the forest office," notes Stephen & Theresa B. from Jackson-Washington State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Affordable youth activities: Scout facilities open to public during specific periods. "We camp here every time we come to Indiana. We have camped there in a truck camper, and now we tent camp with our Jeep. The sites are large, and there are fire rings available. There are vault toilets and a fresh water pump not far from them," explains Susan A. from Young's Creek Horse Camp.
Educational options: Several campgrounds feature nature programs. "The park also offers boat, canoe, and kayak rental plus an Education Center, fishing, hiking and mountain bike trails that extend into Jackson-Washington State Forest," mentions Stephen & Theresa B. about Starve Hollow.
Family-sized yurts: Alternative lodging accommodations fit groups of 4-6 people. "Cabins look cute. I peeked in one. Double bed with bunks in room. There's a loft for kids. A/C and heat but not bathroom. Bring a mattress or sleeping bags or you will sleep on wood. I recommend the water cabins," advises J.C. from Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Playgrounds and facilities: Recreation areas for children vary by location. "The beach area was huge and there were a lot of playgrounds. Overall there was nothing bad to report. If you want to rent one of the kayaks, get to the office right at 8 or they will be gone for the day," advises Martin M. from Starve Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Road conditions and campsite design affect larger vehicles. "Camp sites are pretty small, but are aligned along a small stream. Heavy truck and train traffic can be heard at all hours. Sites equipped with electricity, a gazebo & picnic table, and fire pit," reports Sarah S. from Marengo Cave Campgrounds.
Utility placement: Hookups often require extra equipment. "The electric and water hookups are not in standard locations for RV hookups. Make sure you bring an extension for your electric hookup, otherwise you might not be able to reach the post. Same for water hookup," warns Kelsie E. about Delaney Creek Park.
Winter options: Limited year-round facilities for RVs with full hookups. "There are full hook-up sites and electric. Regular electric sites on the water are beautiful but not sure we could park our 41 ft fifth wheel on a water site," notes J.C. from Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
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