Camping near Saint Croix, Indiana offers visitors access to the rolling limestone hills and dense hardwood forests of southern Indiana's unglaciated region. At approximately 600-800 feet elevation, this area creates a microclimate that's typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands during summer months. Most forest campgrounds in this region follow a cash-only payment system with self-registration stations and limited cell service.
What to do
Hiking the Two Lakes Trail: The trail connecting Indian and Celina lakes spans approximately 15 miles of technical, rolling terrain. At North Face Loop Campground, campers appreciate the trail's accessibility from campsites. "We hiked extensively and though this is definitely not mountainous terrain it will give you a work out. A lot of cool rock formations and wild life to be seen," notes one visitor.
Paddling opportunities: Electric-motor-only restrictions on local lakes create calm waters ideal for non-motorized boats. "Next visit I'm packing the kayak because Tipsaw Lake looked awesome!" shared a camper at Tipsaw Lake. The boat ramps at most recreation areas include docks with adjacent parking.
Seasonal festivals: Fall Halloween events draw families to the region. At Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day!"
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at certain campgrounds. At South Slope Loop Campground, "Camping spots not on top of each other. Great hiking. Quiet." The North Face Loop also receives similar praise with one camper noting, "All of the sites are spaced far enough away that you'll have your privacy."
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic setting, restroom cleanliness stands out in visitor feedback. At Sycamore Springs Park, "Clean showers and bathrooms and friendly staff." Another camper mentioned, "The showers were the best I've seen, clean and strong pressure."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers have several low-cost options. "For $5 per night it sure is a good deal," reports a visitor to Saddle Lake Campground. Similarly, dispersed camping along trails costs $5 per night as long as campers set up at least 300 feet from designated paths.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Ticks present a significant challenge in this region, particularly after rainy periods. "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns a North Face Loop camper. Multiple reviewers emphasize proper insect protection as essential equipment.
Cash-only transactions: Most national forest campgrounds require cash payment with exact change. A visitor to North Face Loop advises, "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically across the region. "Cell service was poor. (T-Mobile 0-1 bar LTE, AT&T 1-2 bars LTE, but NO internet service when things get busy Thursday to Sunday afternoon)" reports a camper at Patoka Lake Campground. Coverage tends to improve closer to larger towns.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Sycamore Springs Park, "Kids can ride bikes all day long, splash in the creeks, and play on the multitude of playground equipment." This campground also features "a little village set up houses to play in!"
Beach considerations: While lakes are common, not all offer designated swimming areas. At Tipsaw Lake, "The playground at the lake is perfect for Littles. The beach had a lot of debris washed up, however we were there in late winter."
Festival timing: Family-oriented events occur throughout the camping season. A camper at Patoka Lake Campground shared, "During our visit over fall break, the Halloween festivities and trick-or-treating added an extra layer of fun to our experience."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Size restrictions limit options for larger recreational vehicles. At Saddle Lake Campground, "Sites are nice, but small if you rv camp. We have a 29 ft. camper and could only use 3 or 4 of the sites." Advance research on site dimensions is recommended.
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies by location. South Slope Loop offers electrical hookups while North Face Loop provides more primitive camping. At O'Bannon Woods State Park, "50,30,20 amp service in one box. There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank."
Dump station planning: Some campgrounds have limited dump station capacity. One RVer noted, "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites but things moved quickly." Timing your departure to avoid busy checkout periods can reduce wait times.
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