Best Campgrounds near Paoli, IN

Southern Indiana's rolling hills surrounding Paoli feature diverse camping options within the Hoosier National Forest and nearby state recreation areas. Youngs Creek Horse Camp, located just five miles from Paoli, provides spacious primitive sites with vault toilets and fresh water pumps, attracting both equestrians and tent campers. Springs Valley Recreation Area offers boat-in and hike-in tent camping with basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables. Patoka Lake Campground, approximately 20 miles southwest of Paoli, provides more developed options with electric hookups, showers, and water access for both RV and tent campers. The region's mix of forest, lake, and stream settings accommodates various camping styles from primitive backcountry to full-service sites.

Campground accessibility varies significantly by season, with many sites open year-round but experiencing different conditions. According to camper Susan A., "The sites [at Youngs Creek] are large, and there are fire rings available... It is only five miles from Paoli, and there is a Walmart there if you need supplies." Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing but also increased demand, particularly on weekends. Summer weekends at lake-adjacent campgrounds often reach capacity quickly. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, especially in more remote forest areas. Most established campgrounds require reservations during peak season, while some primitive sites remain first-come, first-served.

Water access represents a significant draw for many campers in the Paoli area. Patoka Lake and nearby Newton Stewart State Recreation Area provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating with electric motors only. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere at less developed sites. As one visitor noted, "Great quiet place to rest up for a few nights." Hiking opportunities range from short nature trails to more challenging terrain with rock formations and ravines. The Hoosier National Forest offers more secluded experiences with fewer amenities, while state parks and recreation areas typically provide more facilities including showers, camp stores, and organized activities. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, raccoons, and various bird species throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Paoli, Indiana (132)

    1. Patoka Lake Campground

    36 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 338-5589

    $12 - $32 / night

    "My Aunt loves their trips to Patoka Lake & I can relate as to why after this weekend. We went for a wedding at the marina & ended by a lovely cove."

    "Pick a site that has water near and you won’t have to unhook to fill your tanks. So many sites are in the shade all day and peaceful. Showers are spotless but fun on the push button system."

    2. Spring Mill State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mitchell, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 849-3534

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Spring Mill State park is a little piece of history that is in the heart of southern Indiana. Here you will find a working frontier village."

    "Open space, close to facilities and water pump, Ground was mostly flat, slightly shady in the afternoon, and very peaceful."

    3. Youngs Creek Horse Camp

    8 Reviews
    Paoli, IN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "We camp here every time we come to Indiana. We have camped there in a truck camper, and now we tent camp with our Jeep. The sites are large, and there are fire rings available."

    "If you head into the town of Paoli be sure to hit up the farmers co-op for supplies."

    4. Sycamore Springs Park

    17 Reviews
    English, IN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 338-3846

    "There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground."

    "We were right at the lake edge. The campsite had electric but no water, but the water was just across the road at a shelter."

    5. Marengo Cave Campgrounds

    8 Reviews
    English, IN
    14 miles
    Website

    $27 / night

    "Camp store, cave tours, gift shop, and other pay activities are within steps of camping, but only open until 5:00. No security or staff at all after hours."

    "I was really surprised that in my 30 years of living in Indiana, I had never been to Marengo Cave. It's both great for kids and adults."

    6. Happy Hollow Homestead

    5 Reviews
    English, IN
    13 miles
    Website

    $40 - $65 / night

    "The drive to this property is very easy and we had no trouble finding it. However, there is not a sign for the campground, so just follow your gps."

    7. Shirley Creek Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    3 Reviews
    West Baden Springs, IN
    9 miles
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "There is also a nice loop trail if you feel like hiking. Be aware that it’s a pretty long drive in with lots of hill and some areas that are strictly gravel."

    "Great trails that our kids (ages 2-9) loved. Only reason for 4 stars is no drinking water or fire pit."

    8. Sleeping Bear Retreat

    2 Reviews
    French Lick, IN
    10 miles
    Website

    $20 - $55 / night

    9. Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake

    4 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 685-2464

    "This SRA is right on Patoka Lake, so there's plenty to do on the water - boating, fishing, floating cabins, beaches. There's also a disc golf course, archery range, and plenty of paved & dirt trails."

    "Beautiful campground and lake. Quiet and very well maintained facilities."

    10. Springs Valley Rec Area

    1 Review
    French Lick, IN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "the campground is closed for overnight camping, but this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. electric motors only, so nice and quiet."

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Recent Reviews near Paoli, IN

711 Reviews of 132 Paoli Campgrounds



Guide to Paoli

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

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Clifty Falls State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The wooded hiking trails helped keep us comfortable," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Patoka Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper shared, "The beach was muddy and shallow, but the lake was beautiful!"
  • Historical Exploration: Visit the historic Rose Island Theme Park while camping at Charlestown State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Great hiking opportunities and cool exploration of historic Rose Island Theme Park."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Starve Hollow State Rec Area. One happy camper noted, "Full hook-up sites that are well spread out so you are not on top of each other."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer from Hardin Ridge said, "Restrooms are clean. Well maintained facility."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff. One visitor at Lake Rudolph Campground said, "All of the staff is very friendly."

What you should know:

  • Entry Fees: Some parks, like Clifty Falls State Park Campground, charge an entry fee on top of camping fees. One camper remarked, "I had to pay the $9 fee to drive into the park, although having already booked and paid for a campsite."
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. A visitor at Paynetown Campground mentioned, "Verizon is one bar."
  • Level Sites: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A camper at Taylor Ridge Campground noted, "The sites are too close together. There's too many people crammed in a small space."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. One family at Charlestown State Park Campground said, "My children loved all the playgrounds around the state park."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids engaged. A camper at Patoka Lake Campground mentioned, "The abundance of activities at this state park ensures there's never a dull moment."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outings. A visitor at Spring Mill State Park Campground noted, "I see raccoon, catch meow lol but they attack," highlighting the need to secure food.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at Buffalo Ridge Campground advised, "Be sure to check pad size. Several sites have 20' or so."
  • Level Your RV: Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites. A camper at Taylor Ridge Campground mentioned, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site which needed level blocks."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Take advantage of the amenities offered. A visitor at Lake Rudolph Campground said, "The camp store was WELL stocked with an assortment of items."

Camping near Paoli, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Paoli, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paoli, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 132 campgrounds and RV parks near Paoli, IN and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paoli, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paoli, IN is Patoka Lake Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paoli, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Paoli, IN.

What parks are near Paoli, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Paoli, IN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.