Camping in Saint Croix, Indiana sits within the hills of the Hoosier National Forest at elevations between 400-700 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the high 80s and mild springs with frequent rainfall. Most campgrounds in this area offer natural buffers of oak and hickory trees providing shade during the warmest months.
What to do
Kayaking on Patoka Lake: This large reservoir permits electric motors only, creating ideal conditions for paddling. "A great place for lake fun...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," explains Kyle from Patoka Lake Campground.
Fishing at Tipsaw Lake: The lake supports multiple species including crappie, bluegill and bass. "The boating and fishing are pretty good," notes Sarah S., who stayed at one of the floating cabins. Russell adds this is a "fantastic Nat Forest Camp Ground" with "great hiking" opportunities throughout the surrounding woods.
Swimming at Sycamore Springs Park: The creek provides natural swimming holes for cooling off. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores... Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground," says Cora P. from Sycamore Springs Park.
Hiking the Tipsaw Lake Trail: This 5.9-mile loop offers moderate terrain through wooded areas. "The trail is not difficult, it's hilly and technical, but an enjoyable excursion," shares Shelly S. at Tipsaw Lake. The trail provides access to several rock formations and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: The campsites at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground provide excellent separation between neighbors. "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," reports Chelsi S. This spacing creates a quieter camping experience compared to more densely packed campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets, and had the best TP in them. The hosts were very nice and friendly," shares Debra W. who stayed at Indian-Celina Lake for three nights.
Abundant wildlife viewing: The forests and lakes support diverse wildlife. "We enjoyed the hiking at this site. The trails were long, but not too difficult, but slightly overgrown. They had very pretty views of the lake," mentions Hadley O. from Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the area support good fishing. "Saddle Lake Recreation Area and Campground is located of IN37 right outside Tell City, IN in Hoosier National Forest," notes Shelly S., who describes it as "the model for good basic camping" with easy lake access for fishing.
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds have basic amenities only. "The vault toilet was adequately clean. Dry camping (no water). All drive-in sites had a fire pit and picnic table," explains Violet about Saddle Lake. Prepare to bring all necessities.
Cash required: Several campgrounds don't accept credit cards. At North Face Loop, "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you," advises Shelly S. This applies to firewood purchases and camping fees at many sites.
Ticks and insects: The forested environment means insects are abundant. "Ticks are bad with the rain and overgrowth so apply your bug spray liberally!" warns Shelly S. about Tipsaw Lake. Multiple reviewers mention this issue across various campgrounds.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds. "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 Kyle about Patoka Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Choose Sycamore Springs Park for amenities: This pet-friendly campground offers extensive facilities for children. "This is a great place for families. You have numerous playgrounds, the bathrooms are never far away, and they have multiple shelter houses," says Lorie D. The campground provides both tent sites and cabins that accommodate pets.
Visit the nature centers: Several parks have educational facilities. "The nature center is a delightful feature, offering a serene escape into the beauty of the surrounding area," notes Amanda V. at Patoka Lake, making it ideal for family learning experiences.
Pack water toys: Lakes and creeks offer swimming opportunities. "The beach is the main attraction to this area of Hoosier NF. A very nice set up on the shore of Tipsaw with sand to get in all those cracks and a play area for the kids," describes Shelly S.
Consider O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground for diverse activities: This park offers multiple recreation options. "O'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on blue River, a beach at the park. Swimming, horse trails and lodging, electric campgrounds, you name it," shares Justin B.
Tips from RVers
Select larger sites at Saddle Lake with care: The campground has limited large sites. "This is a small campground (13 sites). Lots of trail located within a short drive. 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," advises Ronald H.
Check hookup details before arrival: Water access varies between campgrounds. "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," explains Derek J. about O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Use Buzzard Roost Campground for smaller rigs: This free camping area has size limitations. "Camping Spurs see to look like they would fit maybe 30 ft RV," notes Pat, who stayed there for a week. The campground offers a quiet experience with riverside access.
Consider South Slope Loop for electric hookups: This section of Indian-Celina provides powered sites. "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. about Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground.
