Camping spots near Scottsburg, Indiana feature several primitive and rustic options within Jackson Washington State Forest, while Hardy Lake offers both the Wooster primitive campground and Shale Bluff electric sites. The area receives approximately 46 inches of rainfall annually, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping remains available at several locations, though with reduced services and seasonal closures of some water facilities between November and April.
What to do
Hiking trails and difficulty levels: At Jackson Washington State Forest, trails range from moderate to challenging due to elevation changes. "There are some awesome hiking trails here, they are very rugged for Indiana lots of hills. J-W offers some real pretty views," notes a visitor. The forest encompasses over 16,500 acres with multiple trail options.
Raptor rehabilitation program: Shale Bluff Campground at Hardy Lake features Indiana's only DNR raptor rehabilitation center. "The naturalists hosted a very good talk on raptors, with a guest star, a bald eagle. We will definitely return to kayak and trek the rest of the trails," shares a camper who experienced one of the educational programs.
Canoeing and kayaking: Hardy Lake's 741-acre reservoir restricts motorized boats to electric motors only, creating calm waters ideal for paddling. One camper at Shale Bluff Campground reports, "Kayaking was smooth. We enjoyed this camp." Boat rentals are available seasonally at several area lakes, with typical rates ranging from $10-25 per hour depending on watercraft type.
What campers like
Multiple fishing options: Delaney Creek Park offers fishing access and boat rentals. A regular visitor notes, "Delaney Park is a great family place, nice cabins good fishing and lots of boats to rent or bring your own." The park features both bank fishing and boat access points.
Spacious sites with lake access: Many campers appreciate the roominess at Wooster Campground at Hardy Lake. "The Wooster Bay primitive area allows campers to moor their boats overnight. It has a very relaxed atmosphere," writes a reviewer who enjoyed the ability to keep boats at their site.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at several campgrounds. At Deam Lake State Recreation Area, one visitor was particularly impressed by the restrooms: "The best bathrooms I have ever seen. Not a single bug and they even had antibacterial hand soap at every sink." Bathhouse accessibility varies by season, with some facilities closing during winter months.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. At Charlestown State Park, campers report good cell service, but some more remote areas have little to no coverage. One camper at Clifty Falls notes there is "Zero cellular or wifi service so that could be good or bad."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature sloped sites. At Clifty Falls, a camper warns that "Site 22 was so sloped our red levelers barely made it work." Similar conditions exist at Delaney Creek Park where "Sites for RVs are concrete and you will need to level some on all of them."
Primitive camping considerations: At Jackson Washington State Forest, facilities are minimal with only pit toilets and seasonal water spigots. A visitor explains, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Starve Hollow State Recreation Area offers various youth activities. "They offer activities on the weekends, especially for kids," notes one camper. These often include naturalist-led programs, especially during summer months.
Beach and swimming options: Several lakes provide designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Hardy Lake, one camper explains, "The reservoir is 741 acres with boating and fishing plus a huge beach area that is open for swimming." Most beaches operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Playground accessibility: Recreation facilities for children are available at multiple locations. At Starve Hollow, a visitor reports, "The campground also offers an amphitheater overlooking the lake that offers entertainment and naturalist programs." Several campgrounds feature multiple playgrounds distributed throughout the property.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and accessibility: The Scottsburg/Raintree Lake KOA accommodates larger rigs. "They were able to accommodate our 44ft 5th wheel and navigating to the site was simple," reports one RVer. For older state parks, site selection is critical as many were designed before larger RVs became common.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly, with some requiring careful navigation. At Delaney Park, a camper cautions, "The descent into this park is steep and the road is narrow. I think there is one section that is close to 8%, however it's short."
Utility placement: Hookup locations can vary from standard positions. At Delaney Creek Park, one RVer advises, "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."
