Camping near Leavenworth, Indiana provides access to diverse terrain ranging from dense hardwood forests to limestone caves within the Hoosier National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 400-700 feet with moderate to steep trails throughout most recreation areas. Summer temperatures regularly reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring brings variable conditions and frequent rainfall.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Marengo Cave Campgrounds offers unique opportunities to combine camping with underground exploration. "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. The people are super friendly and there are two different parts to explore. The dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern," shares one visitor. The cave tours operate until 5:00 pm daily.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Patoka Lake Campground offers extensive water recreation with a beach area and boat access. "There is a beach of sorts with rocky sand but good enough for a dip. Showers at the beach are … ok. Gang showers (men and women) so more for just rinsing off," notes a camper. The lake permits motorized boats, unlike many smaller lakes in the region.
Trail running on varied terrain: Tipsaw Lake features a 5.9-mile trail that's excellent for hiking and trail running. One visitor describes the trail as "hilly and technical, but an enjoyable excursion." The trail connects with multiple access points near campsites and the lake, making it convenient for families with children who may need shorter options.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded camping sites: Saddle Lake Campground provides a peaceful experience away from crowds. "I thought I had already found my favorite campground in Hoosier NF when I stayed at Celina Lake but then we visited Saddle Lake. To me this campground of 13 sites down a gravel road in the woods is the model for good basic camping," reports one visitor. Sites cost $5 per night on an honor system payment basis.
Kid-friendly amenities: Sycamore Springs Park stands out for its numerous children's facilities. "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 one family. The campground also features a "village of playhouses for the kids."
Night sky viewing: Buzzard Roost Campground offers minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Stayed a week so far is very relaxing and peaceful. Convenience store approximately 10 mi away. Very quiet area and peaceful," notes a visitor. The campground's location away from major roads contributes to darker skies than areas closer to towns or highways.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds, with some having virtually no service. At Buzzard Roost Campground, a camper reports: "One bar with AT&T, was able to get online when the neighbors left (but not while they were home)- so a booster or better would be advised."
Seasonal tick concerns: Heavy rainfall leads to increased tick activity throughout the region. One Tipsaw Lake visitor warns: "Ticks are bad with the rain and overgrowth so apply your bug spray liberally!"
Variable bathroom facilities: Restroom quality differs substantially between campgrounds. At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, one camper notes: "Bath houses were 2.5/5 and could use some maintenance. Some shower facilities were substantially better than others so we chose to walk." Another mentions "no hot water," affecting comfort during cooler weather.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly destinations: Marengo Cave offers unique educational experiences for youth groups. A leader shares, "This is the first year in 38 years that they have opened up the caves for sleeping to the boy scouts. Was a awesome experience." These specialized programs require advance reservations.
Multiple playgrounds: Happy Hollow Homestead provides numerous recreational structures for children. "The kids loved the tire swing and tree web," mentions a family who visited. The tree web is "a giant net about 15 feet in the air" where children can safely climb and play.
Creek exploration opportunities: Sycamore Springs Park features accessible creek areas for children. "The kids can ride bikes all day long, splash in the creeks, and play on the multitude of playground equipment," explains one parent. The shallow creek areas provide safer water play than lake swimming for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground, RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. "The sites have an asphalt pad that are mostly level. 50,30,20 amp service in one box. There was no water at the site though," reports one RV camper. Another mentions: "Not all pads are level or very wide."
Limited big rig access: Most forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger vehicles. At Horseshoe Bend RV Campground, one visitor notes the campground has "gravel sites that were fairly level. Full hookups with 50 amp or 30 amp available. The sites could accommodate up to 5th wheel rigs." This represents one of the few options for larger rigs in the immediate area.
Water access points: RVers should note where water connections are available. At Patoka Lake, a camper explains: "Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank. There is also no sewer hookup at the site which I assumed was wrong." Plan to fill tanks before setting up at your specific site.
