RV camping near Mount Vernon, Indiana puts visitors within reach of several scenic lakes, forest recreation areas, and riverside camping options. The region sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Wabash rivers with elevations ranging from 350-500 feet above sea level. Weather conditions fluctuate seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall bring milder temperatures with occasional precipitation.
What to do
Lake swimming: Pounds Hollow Recreation Area features a swimming beach along a serene lake. "This place is very close to where you need to be. Outpost in between sells food, firewood, ice etc. Very basic campsite for drive up. People were very respectful, very dog friendly," reports camper Brennan M.
Trail hiking: Explore the historic terrain at John James Audubon State Park Campground where trails wind through forested areas. "The trails are nice, there is only one that allows dogs. The onsite buildings are old school and have to be seen to be appreciated. Worth the trip or a nice stop off enroute somewhere else," notes Shelly S.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Moffitt Rec Area which offers lake access. "Beautiful scenery. Very quiet," says Tammy, while others mention the quiet atmosphere makes for good fishing conditions. The lake doesn't permit swimming but supports various fish species.
BMX racing: Watch Friday night BMX races at Burdette Park. "Practice Wednesdays, Races Friday per schedule, big thing since the 80's," explains a visitor. The track draws spectators throughout the summer months and offers an unexpected recreation option for camping families.
What campers like
Affordability: Pine Ridge at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area offers exceptional value. "It was only $10 a night!!! Fall foliage was kick'n too," shares Rick C. The campground features electric sites with 50/30/20 amp hookups at budget-friendly rates compared to private campgrounds in the region.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at several area campgrounds. "The rustic sites are well spread out so they feel very private. The hookup sites were closer together and did not look as well spaced," notes Charles A. regarding Pine Ridge campground.
Clean facilities: Beall Woods State Park Campground maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Small, quiet, well maintained campground. Pit toilets. Dump station and drinking water available. We were able to easily find a spot here when all other places were full," reports Kristyn H.
Centralized location: Access to regional attractions makes certain campgrounds strategic bases. "A great, centralized location for quite a few natural wonders and a hop, skip, and a jump away from quite a few more!" explains Brian E. about Pounds Hollow Recreation Area.
What you should know
Campground capacity varies: Some smaller campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "They have maybe 24 full huck up spots and about 10 or so w/o sewer. 30/50 amp electric on all. All pads are drive through and very level," notes Barry B. about Burdette Park.
Highway noise concerns: Be aware of proximity to roadways at certain campgrounds. "The campground is layed out parallel to highway 41. The sound of traffic whizzing by on the highway is constant," warns Laura E. about John James Audubon State Park Campground.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Garden of the Gods Recreation Area offers basic facilities. "Only downside is that there are only 12 sites, and they are first come, first serve... so you might want to have a second option on a weekend," advises Erick S.
Seasonal limitations: Verify operating schedules before arrival. "Trying out my recently purchased 17' clipper travel trailer. Loved the area and the campsites are very roomy, especially for a small camper," shares Rick C., who visited Pine Ridge during fall when campgrounds operate with reduced capacity.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Burdette Park provides family swimming facilities. "They have everything to keep your family entertained. A pool, mini golf, hiking cabins and so much more," notes Jamie B. The water park operates during summer months with admission fees separate from camping costs.
Educational opportunities: Grayville KOA offers structured activities. "It is a fairly new KOA with so many enjoyable amenities, family fun, food, ice cream, mini golf, full hookups and shady spots if you ask for one," reports Jason L.
Safety considerations: Check for poison ivy along trails. "There was poison ivy everywhere along the trail which made for a stressful hike, trying to keep ourselves on the trail without rubbing against the poison ivy," warns Jen E. about trails near Garden of the Gods Recreation Area.
Entertainment scheduling: Plan around programmed activities at larger campgrounds. "They don't have much going on in winter but summertime is great. Pool, trails, BMX racing on Friday nights and tons of shelters for your get-togethers!" explains Barry B. about Burdette Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Look for campgrounds with level pull-through sites. "All pads are drive through and very level," notes Barry B. about Burdette Park's RV section, making setup easier for larger rigs.
Power compatibility: Check available amperage at your chosen campground. "The left loop has power 50/30/20 amp hook ups but no water or sewer on the campsite," explains Rick C. about Pounds Hollow Recreation Area, an important consideration for RVs with specific power needs.
Limited full-service options: Most state park campgrounds offer electric-only hookups. "We camped close to the lake in a pull through site. This time of year very few campers," reports a visitor about seasonal occupancy patterns that affect site availability.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "Not great for starlink but very moderate t mobile a slightly better Verizon," notes Dena P. about remote camping areas, important information for RVers needing to stay connected.
