The Hoosier National Forest in southern Indiana offers primitive and developed camping options within hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. The area features karst topography with numerous sinkholes, caves, and underground streams. Camping areas near Saint Croix provide access to two lakes, extensive trail systems, and seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities across 200,000+ acres of public land.
What to do
Hiking the Two Lakes Trail: The 15-mile loop trail connects Indian and Celina lakes with moderate technical sections requiring proper footwear. "In Hoosier National Forest. Clean, quiet, uncrowded. Friendly manager," reports Keith L. about Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Caving adventures: Explore underground formations at nearby caves within a short drive from camp. "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," notes Tiffany T. about Marengo Cave Campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: Both lakes permit electric motors only, creating a peaceful environment for anglers. "Nice quiet and a Great Lake to go fishing," shares Tomas M. who visited Indian-Celina Lake. Bank fishing spaces are limited, so boats provide better access to fishing spots.
Historic exploration: Visit the Rickenbaugh family cemetery and historic home near Celina Lake boat ramp. "The Interpretive trail (1mi) near Celina Lake" provides historical context about early settlers, according to Shelly S. from Celina Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The campground layout provides good separation between camping spots. "The sites are spacious and not jammed up against other sites. It is very family oriented with plenty of friendly campers," says Nancy R. who stayed at Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Natural setting: Most sites feature ample tree cover and natural surroundings. "All of the sites are spaced far enough away that you'll have your privacy. The sites are clean and spacious as well as very flat for tents," notes Chelsi S. about Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Clean facilities: The bathrooms and common areas receive regular maintenance. "The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets, and had the best TP in them," reports Debra W. who spent three nights at Indian-Celina Lake.
Quiet atmosphere: Unlike busier campgrounds, this area maintains a peaceful environment. "This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispersed camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site," explains Akiva G. who appreciated the tranquility at Indian-Celina Lake.
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Multiple campers report significant tick issues, particularly in warmer months. "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns Shelly S. about Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground.
Campsite selection: North Face Loop offers more privacy than South Slope Loop. "If you're the kind who wanna socialize or in a large group who needs a campground within eyeshot, south loop is more for your taste," advises Rica Z. who preferred the seclusion of North Loop.
Limited cell service: Prepare for spotty connectivity throughout the area. Service ranges from 1-3 bars depending on carrier and specific location.
Cash payment: Some campground facilities only accept cash. Bring small bills ($5 and $1) for payment and firewood purchases.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Tipsaw Lake offers swimming approximately 10 minutes from the main camping area. "For those seeking additional water recreation, Tipsaw Lake offers swimming opportunities just a short 10-minute drive away," notes a camper.
Kid-friendly trails: The 1-mile interpretive trail provides an easy hiking option for families. "We really enjoyed the hiking at this site. The trails were long, but not too difficult, with very pretty views of the lake," shares Hadley O. from Indian-Celina Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer the best opportunities for wildlife sightings. "The hiking trails were amazing, the scenery was breathtaking," reports Stacey S. from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Nature activities: Collect leaves, identify trees, or search for wildlife tracks along the shoreline. "We spent time at the lake, though no kayaking this trip. The small fishing pier we visited is handicap accessible adjacent to the handicap parking spot," notes a reviewer.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites require some leveling. "Not all pads are level or very wide," cautions Shelly S. about O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Electrical hookups: South Slope Loop provides electrical connections for RVs. "This is the RV friendly campground with electrical hookups for your toys. You give up some privacy and quiet to have your electric as the sites are closer together," explains Shelly S.
Water access: No direct water hookups at most sites. "Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," shares Derek J. about his camping experience.
Road conditions: Some access roads are narrow with tight turns. Smaller RVs navigate the area more easily than larger ones.
