The Hoosier National Forest provides over 200,000 acres of public land surrounding Loogootee, Indiana, with dense forest and limestone terrain typical of this region. Camping options range from basic sites with vault toilets to established campgrounds with electric service. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summers average 85°F with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Greene Sullivan State Forest offers some 120 lakes for anglers looking for variety. "The lakes are rich with bass, bluegill, crappy, redear and Airline Lake is even stocked annually with rainbow trout," notes one visitor at Narrow Lake Campground.
Hiking through historic sites: Near O'Bannon Woods State Park, explore local history while hiking. "Several local restaurants to visit. Overlook and 1816," mentions a camper, pointing out attractions accessible from the trails. The area includes historic sites related to early settlement.
Paddling on calm waters: Starve Hollow Lake offers peaceful water activities away from motorboats. "Calm waters for kayaking," reports a visitor, making this an ideal spot for beginners or those seeking quiet water experiences. The lake has multiple launch points for non-motorized boats.
What campers like
Private campsites: Youngs Creek Horse Camp provides secluded camping with basic amenities. "Secluded camping area with horse hitch. 5 - 6 primitive spots with fire rings and tables," explains a visitor to Youngs Creek Horse Camp. Sites accommodate tents and smaller vehicles.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "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," mentions another Youngs Creek camper about the natural surroundings.
Level camping pads: Shakamak State Park features unusually flat sites, a rarity in Indiana's typically hilly terrain. "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park," remarks a camper at Shakamak State Park Campground. This makes setup easier for tents and RVs.
What you should know
Limited winter options: Most glamping close to Loogootee operates seasonally. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake... 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 a camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area. Rental equipment availability decreases off-season.
Ticks can be problematic: Prepare for insects, especially during warmer months. "Tick were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure," warns an O'Bannon Woods visitor. Bring appropriate repellent and check for ticks regularly after hiking.
Cell service varies: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. "Cell service was OK. (T-Mobile 1-2 bars LTE and AT&T 1-3 bars)," reports an O'Bannon Woods camper. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple options exist for family water recreation. "The pool was very nice with a splash pad and two water slides (42" height requirement) and a small concession stand," says a visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground. Many sites offer swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Campground programming: Some locations offer organized activities during peak season. "We came here in 2017 with a group of friends and camped in the primitive camping area. It was an awesome set up and we had a great time. We went around Halloween time so the kids participated in a costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, and trick or treat," explains a visitor to Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe.
Playgrounds throughout parks: Many campgrounds feature multiple play areas. "Playgrounds are sprinkled throughout," notes a Starve Hollow visitor, making it convenient for families to find recreation close to their sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Confirm utility placement before arrival. "Whereas power and water were reasonably placed, the sewer was setup in a manner that waste water had to flow uphill," cautions a camper at Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe, highlighting infrastructure challenges.
Extension cord needs: Electrical connections may not align with ideal site orientation. "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit- the electric box is in an awkward place," advises a Starve Hollow camper about optimizing site setup.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited spaces for bigger RVs. "The sites are not so level but located in a nice wooded area and well maintained interior roads and facilities," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. Call ahead to confirm site dimensions when planning luxury camping near Loogootee with larger vehicles.
