Near Chrisney, Indiana, campers have access to several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level with rolling hills characteristic of southern Indiana's terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions between 50-70°F.
What to do
Water recreation: Lincoln State Park has a 58-acre lake where electric motors are permitted for boating and fishing. "The fishing pond has a ton of fish in it. We caught crappie, bluegill, and a few smaller bass - but there are definitely some larger bass in there," notes one visitor who appreciated the accessible shoreline.
Holiday World visits: Many campers at Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park use it as a base for visiting the nearby theme park. "Lincoln State Park is usually packed. It's less than 10 miles away from Holiday World. I think a lot of theme park visitors camp here," explains one regular camper who found the location convenient.
Hiking opportunities: The trail system at Lincoln State Park offers six marked routes ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, with the longest measuring 3.7 miles. "There's 2 bath houses in the electric side with flush toilets & showers. Very clean for a state park! A double dump station. 6 trails from easy to moderate. The longest is 3.7 miles," notes a recent visitor who explored the park extensively.
What campers like
Family-friendly environments: Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph specializes in seasonal family camping with dedicated facilities. "We love coming here annually for Mother's Day weekend. This campground has a lot to offer but is focused for seasonal camping. A lot of amenities and the town is fun to sight see," shares one repeat visitor who makes it a tradition.
Historical connections: The region offers opportunities to explore Abraham Lincoln's boyhood home. "Lots of history in the park & in the area. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is directly across the road from the state park," explains a camper who appreciated the educational aspect of visiting Lincoln State Park.
Halloween celebrations: October brings special events to Sycamore Springs Park with family-focused activities. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day!" reports a seasonal visitor who enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies: At Scales Lake Park, the configuration can feel crowded during peak periods. "The sites are very close together, so when the campsites are full you don't feel like you have much privacy or personal space," notes a mid-October camper who still enjoyed the full hookups and hiking trails.
Off-season limitations: Most campgrounds in the area reduce services after October. "I would have gladly given the site 5 stars, but nothing was open and my husband had his heart set on a funnel cake - as advertised," explains a visitor who stayed at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph during shoulder season.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more separation from other campers, some parks offer basic sites. "We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake. Literally just a picnic table and fire pit. There's pit toilets nearby," shares a Scales Lake Park visitor who has camped there multiple times and prefers the more secluded area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Horseshoe Bend RV Campground provides riverside views with full hookup sites. "This was a great campground. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. The campground was very clean and well maintained with gravel sites that were fairly level," mentions a family who enjoyed watching barges on the Ohio River.
Multiple playground options: Local county parks feature extensive play areas for children. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores, fresh black topped roads, and such friendly staff. Clean bathrooms and showers, and beautiful places to visit also. Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground," explains an enthusiastic visitor to Sycamore Springs Park.
Free activities: Some campgrounds offer cost-effective family entertainment. "We've been camping there for three years! Clean and very well tended! Bathrooms with running water and showers. Free firewood is provided. This is a very kid friendly place for families," reports a regular camper at Sycamore Springs who appreciates the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV camping near Chrisney, Indiana, choosing the right site can make a significant difference. "Sites were great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However we only got the spot because at the others were sold out. Many of the other spots were on hills and right on top of each other," warns a Lake Rudolph visitor who recommends booking premium sites when available.
Overnight convenience stops: Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839 provides pull-through sites for travelers needing short stays. "Rest stops leading up to this RV spot were under construction. This was a last minute decision. It was late and I didn't want to drive in the dark anymore," explains a traveler who used the facility, though they noted the $50/night rate seemed high for what is essentially a truck stop location.
Waterfront considerations: For those seeking river views, Horseshoe Bend offers suitable sites for larger rigs. "Great views of the Ohio River and an occasional barge. We will certainly try to get back here in the future," mentions a class C motorhome owner who appreciated the clean, well-maintained campground with full hookups and 50-amp service.
