Hoosier National Forest encompasses over 200,000 acres in south-central Indiana, featuring rolling hills, sandstone outcroppings, and numerous streams flowing through limestone terrain. The forest's elevation ranges from 361 to 1,020 feet above sea level, with weather patterns including humid summers averaging 85-90°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Campgrounds throughout the region offer varying levels of shade, with primitive sites typically providing more tree coverage than established facilities with utilities.
What to do
Cave exploration: Marengo Cave offers accessible underground adventures within minutes of forest camping areas. The site includes "both horse, drive in and walk-in camping... a privy and water on site" with "fire rings and picnic tables" according to David M. at Youngs Creek Horse Camp. Visitors can tour two distinct cave sections, with Tiffany T. noting they "had never been to Marengo Cave... both great for kids and adults... there are two different parts to explore: the dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern."
Pioneer village visits: Spring Mill State Park maintains a reconstructed 1800s settlement with working gristmill. Jessie W. explains that "we will definitely visit Spring Mill again to take a cave tour by boat, and also visit the pioneer village." The historic buildings and demonstrations add educational value to camping trips, while Rachel W. mentions "you can buy freshly ground corn mill" at the authentic mill.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Access points for shoreline fishing exist throughout the forest and adjacent recreation areas. Chelsea M. recommends Patoka Lake's amenities: "Fish cleaning stations is right off the parking lot for the boat ramp so very convenient" although "fishing is very difficult here." Alternatively, Sheldon E. had better luck at Hardin Ridge: "The camp ground has nice hiking trails and its own boat ramp with a dock. We went fishing down by the ramp and caught a mess of bluegill which we fried up back at the campsite!"
What campers like
Diverse site options: Hardin Ridge offers varying levels of privacy and amenities. According to Deb T., "All the sites are large and well-shaded with tables and fire pits/grates. The grounds are kept very clean, as well as the shower rooms, bathrooms, and vault toilets." She adds "There are many electric, some electric/water, and a few full hook up. Water spigots are heavily spread throughout each loop."
Natural water features: Starve Hollow State Rec Area provides lakeside camping with swimming access. Martin M. shares that "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." The site includes "a huge swimming beach, and picnic area" with "boat, canoe, and kayak rental plus an Education Center."
Free camping options: Several primitive sites require no fees. At Blackwell Campground, Joe B. notes "I found this place a few years ago and it has become my local go to. It is free camping and first come first serve. There are vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out." Another reviewer, Kelly G. was surprised: "Can't believe this place was free. It was nearly empty (although it was the end of November). The hiking was fantastic."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Forest camping means sharing space with native animals. At Youngs Creek, Elizabeth W. advises "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." Raccoons are common visitors at Patoka Lake where Chelsea M. warns "MAKE SURE TO PUT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FOOD!!! Even scraps and Yes even DOG FOOD. We had raccoon visitors both nights."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns impact camping availability and comfort. From late fall through early spring, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Kelly G. mentioned visiting "at the end of November" and finding the campground "nearly empty" but still enjoyed excellent hiking. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly reaching 85-90°F, making water access important for comfort.
Site terrain variations: Many campgrounds feature uneven ground. Thomas U. notes at Spring Mill State Park that "the site we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at. When we looked at the other site most of the shaded sites that had some privacy where also heavily sloped." At Blackwell, the terrain is more forgiving, with The Wandering Shores reporting "plenty of flat land making leveling easy."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Sycamore Springs Park offers extensive child-friendly amenities. Cora P. explains "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores... Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground." Another camper, Beth H. confirms "Playgrounds everywhere. Nice big sites with full hookups in the newer section. We were able to go 'creeking' do trail walking, bike riding."
Educational programs: Various sites offer structured activities for children. Spring Mill State Park provides regular programs, as Jessie W. describes: "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there." These scheduled events can help keep children engaged during longer camping stays.
Swimming options: Several locations feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Paynetown State Recreation Area, the beach area is complemented by additional facilities. Jamie B. notes "This is the campground we visit the most. There is always something to do. The beach, the trails, the geocaches on the trails, kayak and boat rentals, the activity center."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Many forest campgrounds have limited space for bigger vehicles. At Hardin Ridge, Cynthia K. observed "There's 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric. Well spaced all tucked into the trees on a ridge." She also noted this campground is "less popular than Paynetown, but a lot quieter!!"
Dump station availability: Not all sites offer sewer hookups or dump facilities. James L. reports at Starve Hollow "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."
Leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. At Patoka Lake, Kyle reports "Roads and grounds are in good shape. Tons of sites and all different types (secluded, group, field, lake access, lake view, etc.) Sites were clean and in working order with 30A service." However, "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites."
