Mitchell Creek Road in Hoosier National Forest provides primitive dispersed camping options for self-sufficient campers approximately 70 miles from Newburgh, Indiana. Located in a densely wooded area with elevation around 871 feet, these unmarked roadside pull-offs accommodate tents and small vehicles only. The area receives minimal traffic and offers complete immersion in nature with nearby rock formations and hiking opportunities.
What to do
Explore nearby trails: Hemlock Cliffs and Yellow Birch Ravine provide hiking opportunities near Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed. A visitor noted, "The thick forest was beautiful. There are rock outcroppings along this road, which follows Mitchell Creek and lots to explore on foot."
Wildlife watching: The secluded forest environment supports diverse wildlife. One camper reported, "At night, we heard some loud mysterious crashing in some nearby trees, and what was possibly a large band of coyotes in the distance." Turtles are also common in the area.
Visit the Ohio River: The southern portion of Hoosier National Forest provides access to the Ohio River. A camper describes it as a "Good spot out of the way and close to the Ohio River."
What campers like
Complete solitude: The remote location ensures minimal disruption. A camper stated, "While I was exploring and camping on this road, only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet."
Natural surroundings: Despite basic conditions, the natural environment draws campers. One review mentions, "Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods." The forested setting provides a true wilderness experience.
Cell signal possibilities: Though service is generally unavailable, some spots offer limited connectivity. According to one review: "No cell service at the site but there was a bar or two on the road just a few feet away. With a weboost there was att and tmobile service."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Paper maps are essential as digital navigation fails in the area. A camper advised, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty."
Limited site options: Finding suitable spots requires patience. One visitor reported, "It took me 20 minutes from route 64 to find this place... After 5 min of driving on the very skinny gravel road I saw what it looked like spots but I'm not sure really."
Extremely primitive conditions: These are truly undeveloped sites with no facilities. According to one camper: "There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities. However, if you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle, this is quiet, secluded, and beautiful."
Road conditions: The access road can become problematic. One review noted, "Road south coming in was destroyed some time ago have to enter from east or west road."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Solo travelers should exercise caution. One reviewer warned, "If you are solo female traveler don't even waste your time." The remote location and lack of facilities requires experienced campers.
Vehicle limitations: Only small vehicles can navigate the area effectively. A camper explained, "One pull off was nearly too small to turn around my small pick up truck."
Site selection strategy: Some locations offer more space than others. A visitor mentioned, "There was also a big white building that was all locked up surrounded by open meadow that a larger vehicle might be able to park behind. A circular 'drive' was mown around the building."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: The narrow roads and limited pull-offs cannot accommodate larger vehicles. According to one RVer's experience: "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around."
Alternative options: Instead of attempting dispersed camping with RVs, consider established campgrounds. One frustrated camper reported going elsewhere: "I just keep driving till I got back to 64 and found a Cracker Barrel 17 miles away."
Prepare for muddy conditions: Weather affects accessibility significantly. A camper noted, "A few of the pull offs I didn't explore because they were muddy or washed out after several days of rain."
