Best Campgrounds near Oakland City, IN

Camping options near Oakland City, Indiana include both developed facilities and primitive sites across several county and state parks. Scales Lake Park, approximately 15 miles south, offers diverse accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping opportunities. Other notable campgrounds in the region include Pike State Forest with primitive tent camping, Prides Creek County Park with water recreation amenities, and Lynnville Park situated alongside a small lake. Most campgrounds in the area provide electric hookups, while Pike State Forest offers a more rustic experience without modern conveniences.

Seasonal availability varies across the region's campgrounds, with some like Glendale State Fish and Wildlife Area operating only from April through October. Many sites offer year-round access, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Facilities typically include showers, sanitary dumps, and water hookups at the developed campgrounds, while primitive areas have minimal services. Road access is generally good with most campgrounds accessible via drive-in routes, though some sites at Scales Lake Park can also be reached by boat. A visitor noted, "The campground is situated on a golf course. There didn't seem to be standardized check-in/check-out times. The roads were narrow but doable."

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the Oakland City region, with several campgrounds situated on or near lakes and ponds. Prides Creek County Park features a beach area for swimming, disc golf, and a 9-hole golf course, making it popular for family recreation. Pike State Forest provides a more secluded experience, though reviews mention limited amenities and primitive conditions. A camper described Lynnville Park as having "sites right on the lake" that are "beautiful," noting that while there was "some road noise" from the nearby highway, it "wasn't too much." Scales Lake Park receives high marks for cleanliness and maintenance, with reviewers appreciating its hiking trails, swimming areas with water slides, and mountain bike trails that accommodate both adults and children.

Best Camping Sites Near Oakland City, Indiana (81)

    1. Lynnville Park

    5 Reviews
    Lynnville, IN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 922-5144

    "My camping spot was right on the lake and it was beautiful. I would definitely camp here again."

    "Nice little campground next to a small lake. We stayed for one night. Sites are big and spaced apart. Nice and quiet, apart from the interstate background noise which is noticeable but not too bad."

    2. Prides Creek Co Park

    5 Reviews
    Winslow, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 354-6798

    "It was somewhat easy to get to off the highway. There were some unfriendly signs saying it wasn’t the correct route- it was.

    The campground is situated on a golf course."

    "Ok fishing, disc golf, tennis court, beach for swimming friendly campers, they allow fires and golf carts ..9 hole golf course around the other half of the lake ..great family fun.. big minus park has"

    3. Scales Lake Park

    17 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    $17 - $140 / night

    "Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house."

    "Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr.

    I drove through the RV park, it was okay."

    4. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    33 Reviews
    Santa Claus, IN
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4458

    $45 - $101 / night

    "This park is conveniently located beside Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana! There is a wide variety of activities and it's a fun place to camp with family!"

    "This is a fun family Campground located adjacent to holiday world and Splashin Safari. There are golf carts for rent, nice camp stores, pools, playground, putt putt golf course, arcade and more."

    5. Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    22 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $20 - $100 / night

    "Lincoln State Park is right down the road from Santa Claus , Indiana and Holiday World. Needless to say it was a little busy, but not as bad as the Rudolph RV Park in town."

    "Lake for swimming, fishing, canoe, paddle boat and Jon boat rentals. Hiking trails and fire tower. Typical camp store on site. Gas station with propane about a mile from the camp ground."

    6. Pike State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Winslow, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 367-1524

    7. Miles Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Chandler, IN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 457-6447

    $2 - $40 / night

    "Fairly new with great access to fishing. Bike riding enjoying nature. Several pull through sites and all are full hook up."

    "I used to live near here before the strip mine went through. The camp is in the middle of a large reclamation. Lots of ponds and young trees. Great modern sites mostly dispersed."

    8. Glendale State Fish and Wildlife Area

    5 Reviews
    Loogootee, IN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 644-7711

    $16 - $23 / night

    "We stayed in the primitive are and we were tucked away back by the lake."

    "Great place for fishing in Dogwood Lake."

    9. Warrick County Park Scales Lake Park

    3 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    "The trails were interesting but vacant of trail markers and some plaques were vandalized from years before. Firewood is $8 a bundle and parking is $3 a day."

    10. Vanderburgh 4H Campground

    3 Reviews
    Highland, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 867-6217

    "Was looking for a quiet area, and not some drive-through campsite, this fit the bill."

    "Lots of places to walk. Great views of the small lake."

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Recent Reviews near Oakland City, IN

377 Reviews of 81 Oakland City Campgrounds


  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    Small pull off on the side of a gravel road.

    This is a bare bones location. There was evidence of a homemade fire pit and a small cleared area. 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. Very quiet, only 2 vehicles passed by in the 36 hours I was there. 38.515995, -85.870726, 871 ft

  • Fred R.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    Cross country trip

    First stop and a Natl park. This place was crazy packed due to concert and drone show. We missed both. It was tight to get into but made it work. Shade trees are plenty with hiking trails all around.

  • Cora P.
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Patoka Lake Campground

    Beautiful and so calm

    I am actually going to say if the beach was open I wouldn't have a bad thing to say. Other than that beautiful park, friendly staff, and clean shower houses.

  • Cora P.
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Sycamore Springs Park

    Kid's LOVE it!

    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.

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Ouabache Trails County Park

    Excellent County Park

    Great gem of a woodsy campground. Stayed one night before visiting George Rogers Clark National Park (you can park your rig right in front of the natl park visitors center on the street). Campground is out of the way, which I consider a positive. 

    The staff were great. Excellent communication, seamless reservation process. Received prompt response to email, voicemail message was left after booking explaining exactly where my site was located. 

    If you are coming in for one night, definitely pick site 23 or 24 pull throughs. TIP: Make sure you have an extension for your 30/50 AMP, and one for your water as well (but what serious camper doesn't already have those?). Definitely on the list of "do agains."

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Hoosier National Forest

    Good spot out of the way and close to the Ohio River

    Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods

  • R
    Jun. 28, 2025

    New Vision RV Park

    Great campground !

    We have stayed here several times and it’s always been a great time. Most spots there are occupied by traveling workers for the nearby power plant so even when the campground is full it’s very quiet. If you have kids i recommend spot #1. It’s big and borders a very nice playground. I also recommend not going for the back left (NE) corner. Train tracks are way too close. The hosts are great and bathhouse/laundry facilities are clean and nice. Disclaimer: it has been a couple years since we’ve visited because we moved.


Guide to Oakland City

Camping near Oakland City, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to family-friendly parks, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Patoka Lake Campground is a great spot for fishing and boating. One visitor shared, “Patoka has always had a hype about it for years; big lake, tons of boats, and fishing.” The lake is perfect for a weekend of water fun.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Harmonie State Park Campground. A camper noted, “Multiple walking trails and bike trails. Nice shelter houses and picnic areas.” It’s a great way to enjoy nature.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Shakamak State Park — Shakamak Prairie Nature Preserve, you can spot various wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, “Most of the sites are shady. Our favorite site is 72,” highlighting the park's natural beauty.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Spring Mill State Park Campground said, “Everything was well kept and clean. Multiple bath/shower houses on each loop.” Clean restrooms make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the welcoming vibe. At Lake Rudolph Campground RV Resort, one guest noted, “All of the staff is very friendly.” This friendly environment makes it easy to connect with fellow campers.
  • Variety of Activities: Campgrounds like O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground offer a range of activities. A camper mentioned, “The park is well kept and organized. There are a ton of sites to visit and see.” This variety keeps everyone entertained.

What you should know:

  • No Water Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Patoka Lake Campground, do not have water hookups. A reviewer reminded others, “It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site.”
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds during weekends, especially at popular spots like Harmonie State Park Campground. One camper said, “The weekends in the middle of the season are typically busy.” Planning your visit during weekdays might be a better option.
  • Level Campsites: Some sites may not be level, which can be tricky for tent campers. A visitor at Spring Mill State Park Campground mentioned, “It is mostly uneven and the shaded loop is very unlevel.” Bring leveling tools if you’re camping in a tent.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds Available: Many campgrounds, like Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park, have playgrounds for kids. One parent said, “The campground has a few playgrounds for the kids too.” This keeps the little ones entertained.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: If you’re bringing pets, check out Indian-Celina Recreation Area. A camper noted, “Friendly helpful staff,” making it a welcoming place for families with pets.
  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with various activities. A visitor at Shakamak State Park mentioned, “There are a ton of sites to visit and see.” This ensures everyone has something to do.

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds, like O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, are big rig friendly. A reviewer shared, “This is a great place to camp and a wonderful spot for a stress-free getaway!”
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has electric hookups. A camper at Lake Rudolph Campground RV Resort mentioned, “Having electric and water was nice.” This makes your stay more comfortable.
  • Check for Level Sites: Look for level sites to avoid hassle. A visitor at Harmonie State Park Campground advised, “Suggest calling before making reservations because many of electric sites are not level, at all.”

Camping near Oakland City, Indiana, has a lot to offer, from beautiful parks to friendly communities. Whether you’re tent camping or RVing, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Oakland City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Oakland City, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 81 campgrounds and RV parks near Oakland City, IN and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Oakland City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Oakland City, IN is Lynnville Park with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Oakland City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Oakland City, IN.