Best Campgrounds near French Lick, IN

Camping near French Lick, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking and exploring: Many campers enjoy the trails available at Charlestown State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great hiking opportunities and cool exploration of historic Rose Island Theme Park. It's definitely a new favorite!"
• Fishing and boating: At Paynetown Campground, the lake is a big draw. A reviewer noted, "The sites are mostly shaded and very flat. They're nearly all drop and hook sites so very little need for leveling on nearly all sites."
• Local attractions: If you're near Lake Rudolph Campground, you can easily visit Holiday World. One family shared, "Our family enjoyed the amenities and the easy 'special entrance' shuttle to Holiday World. Super easy and fun."

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Hardin Ridge. A visitor said, "Restrooms are clean. Well maintained facility. Staff are very friendly and helpful."
• Spacious sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Starve Hollow State Rec Area. One camper mentioned, "Full hook up sites that are well spread out so you are not on top of each other."
• Nature and wildlife: Campers at Shakamak State Park love the natural surroundings. A reviewer stated, "Most of the sites are shady. Our favorite site is 72. It is close to a water hookup if you need to top off your fresh water tank."

What you should know

• Busy during peak season: Campgrounds like Paynetown Campground can get crowded. One visitor noted, "This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend."
• Limited cell service: If you're planning to stay at Buffalo Ridge Campground, be aware that cell service can be spotty. A camper mentioned, "Verizon is one bar."
• No water hookups at some sites: At Patoka Lake Campground, it's important to fill your tank before arriving, as there are no water hookups available.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose a family-friendly campground: Charlestown State Park Campground has playgrounds and trails that kids will love. One parent said, "My children loved all the playgrounds around the state park, great trails."
• Be cautious around water: If you're camping at Starve Hollow State Rec Area, keep an eye on kids near the lake. A reviewer advised, "The beach was muddy and shallow, but the lake was beautiful!"
• Plan for activities: Campers at Lake Rudolph Campground enjoyed renting golf carts and participating in light parades. One family shared, "All of the staff is very friendly. The park is very clean and we looked out with good neighbors."

Tips from RVers

• Check site levels: At Taylor Ridge Campground, some sites have inclines. A visitor noted, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site which needed level blocks."
• Use electric hookups: Campers at Hardin Ridge appreciated the electric options. One reviewer said, "There’s 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric."
• Be prepared for limited amenities: At Spring Mill State Park Campground, some sites may not have water or flush toilets. A camper mentioned, "It does have a lot of amenities such as trails, mountain bike trails, tennis court, basketball court, beach volleyball."

Camping near French Lick, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly activities to peaceful nature retreats. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!