Muscatatuck County Park and surrounding campgrounds in Jennings County offer wooded terrain with creek-side camping areas. The region features limestone bluffs and hiking trails through deciduous forest at elevations ranging from 650-800 feet. Water levels in creek areas fluctuate seasonally, with spring bringing higher water levels ideal for creek fishing and summer offering drier trails.
What to do
Rock climbing and bouldering: Muscatatuck Park features multiple climbing areas with limestone formations. Hidden Paradise Campground combines water activities with climbing options nearby. "We spent all Saturday in the neighboring towns, enjoying the beautiful fall scenery, and were happily surprised with just how gorgeous and large this park was," notes Jennifer K.
Creek and river exploration: Several waterways provide fishing and paddling opportunities throughout the county parks system. Visitors can fish from shorelines or bring small watercraft. "Flat rock river runs by a lot of the camp sites. Makes for a beautiful scenery, good fishing and/or float on it in your kayak or on a raft," explains Allyson R.
Mountain biking trails: Technical single-track trails wind through wooded areas near North Vernon. The trails vary in difficulty with both beginner and advanced routes. Muscatatuck offers "a lot of trails" according to Julie S., who also mentions the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Natural water features: Lakes and streams provide swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground offers "a 145-acre Starve Hollow Lake with a large swimming beach, and picnic area. The park offers boat, canoe, and kayak rental," according to Stephen & Theresa B.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for wildlife spotting at dog friendly campgrounds near North Vernon. "When there's not a lot of people you can see a couple of deer and if your lucky a fox," shares Julie S. about her experience at Muscatatuck Park.
Spacious camping areas: Many sites provide room to spread out equipment and recreation areas. "Our site had extra space and was next to the bathhouse. There were some trees there that my kids could put up their hammocks during the day. Nice and level and had a large tree there as well," reports Kaley A. about her stay at Clifty Falls.
What you should know
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads that can be challenging for larger rigs. "We turned off CR 58 on S 300 W with our Class A and found a narrow road that was wide enough for our Class A and another small car. The berm is non-existant to the west," explains Charlie M. about Woods-N-Waters Kampground.
Varying campground layouts: Sites range from open to densely wooded, affecting shade and privacy levels. "This loop has a really nice shower house and restroom facility centrally located in the loop. Sites are sectioned off by a strip of non-mowed tall grass for privacy," notes Jeff W. about the non-electric loop at Clifty Falls.
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds and camping loops. "Men's bathhouse. 1stall. 1urinal. 1 shower for 16 primitive sites and rv's. Not in good condition either," reports Keith about Muscatatuck Jennings County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with added features for children. Ceraland has "a pool area super nice with a waterslide, diving boards and a unique rock climbing wall in the deep end," according to Tricia B., who adds that her "kids always look forward to this campground."
Playground access: Recently installed playground equipment provides recreation options at several pet-friendly campgrounds. "Nice new playground in the park," notes Jason W. about Muscatatuck County Park, making it suitable for families camping with dogs.
Trail difficulty awareness: Trail ratings vary and some may be too challenging for young children. "Trails are not marked very well so plan for longer hikes than anticipated," warns Kyle about Clifty Falls State Park, suggesting families should research routes before setting out with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require significant leveling for larger RVs. "Some sites are not level at all. So be sure to read up on the site you want before you book it," advises Burns G. about Versailles State Park Campground.
Pull-through availability: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near North Vernon offer pull-through sites for easier setup. "8 full hookup pull through spots," confirms Jason W. about Muscatatuck Jennings County Park.
Electric service variations: Amperage varies between campgrounds and specific sites. "We had a non-electric site (159). It had extra space and was next to the bathhouse," shares Kaley A., highlighting the trade-offs between hookup availability and site location at Clifty Falls.
