Jackson-Washington State Forest encompasses over 16,500 acres of rolling hills in south-central Indiana, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The area offers primitive camping options with basic amenities in a hardwood forest setting. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 60-65°F at night, making it comfortable for tent camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Raintree Lake provides a lake where campers can fish without leaving the grounds. "Kayaking was smooth. We enjoyed this camp," notes Rusty R. about the water activities at nearby Hardy Lake State Recreation Area.
Mountain biking trails: Brown County State Park offers extensive purpose-built mountain biking trails for various skill levels. "The mountain biking is excellent, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," according to TMB, who camped at Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Archery range: Jackson-Washington State Forest maintains an archery range that receives positive reviews from frequent visitors. "The archery range is great. We have been going here for a few years and it's never disappointing," shares mandi D., highlighting this less common outdoor activity option.
Hiking with elevation: The trails throughout the area feature more challenging terrain than typically found in Indiana. "The property offers several stunning hiking trails and some are of the more challenging nature due to the elevation changes," notes Stephen & Theresa B. about Jackson-Washington State Forest.
What campers like
Secluded dispersed sites: Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping offers free camping options away from crowds. "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site," reports Amber R., who stayed in a converted van.
Waterfront camping: Electric-only sites at Hardy Lake provide direct lake access for fishing and relaxation. "The camping spots are huge and most has trees to hang a hammock. The spots closest to the lake has trails leading down," explains Aleta C. about the lakeside options.
Variety of accommodations: Multiple parks in the region offer everything from primitive sites to full hookups. "This State Park offers camping from full hookup, electric only (by the lake), tent camping, and cabins," James L. notes about Starve Hollow State Rec Area, showing the range of options available.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide ample space between sites for privacy. "Spacious sites. Beautiful forest. Quiet, but only 5 minutes small town with gas stations, grocery, etc," describes Fern B. about the generous camping spaces at Jackson-Washington State Forest.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: The rolling hills create camping sites that may require leveling equipment. "From dirty pit toilets to trees falling on camp site in the middle of the night to only a few level sites I like to ruff it but this is a little too ruff," warns catlin W. about certain areas of Jackson-Washington State Forest.
Limited cell service: Some parks have poor connectivity, which can impact planning. "Zero cellular or wifi service so that could be good or bad. Bathrooms and camp stores are well stocked/maintained and convenient," notes Kyle about Clifty Falls State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Late summer conditions can impact water quality for pets. "In the last few years the lake hasn't been as clean as it used to be," cautions Angela F. about Hardy Lake, suggesting spring or fall visits might be preferable.
Site selection importance: Review site details carefully before booking, especially for larger RVs. "There are full hook-up sites and electric. Regular electric sites on the water are beautiful but not sure we could park our 41 ft fifth wheel on a water site," advises J C. about choosing appropriate sites.
Tips for camping with families
Raptor program access: Shale Bluff Campground at Hardy Lake offers unique wildlife education opportunities. "Don't forget to ask at the main gate if breakfast with the raptors will be happening if you are going to be there on a Saturday morning," recommends Aleta C. about this special program.
Family-friendly activities: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained throughout your stay. "A lot to do here. Fishing, kayaking and hiking. There are some awesome hiking trails here, they are very rugged for Indiana lots of hills," explains Ron H. about Jackson-Washington State Forest's family offerings.
Playgrounds and facilities: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Multiple playgrounds. Great trails to hike. Cool CCC construction," notes Fern B. about the Jackson-Washington State Forest facilities designed with families in mind.
Swimming options: Several parks include beaches or pools for summer recreation. "The pool area is super nice with a waterslide, diving boards and a unique rock climbing wall in the deep end. My kids always look forward to this campground," shares tricia B. about CERA Sports Corporation's swimming amenities.
Tips from RVers
Access constraints: Some parks have entrance limitations that affect larger rigs. "The north entrance is through a covered bridge with a 9 foot clearance and 3 ton limit! Otherwise, use the easily accessible west entrance, just a few miles 'around the corner,'" advises TMB about Buffalo Ridge Campground access.
Site leveling requirements: The hilly terrain creates challenges for RV parking and setup. "Site 22 was so sloped our red levelers barely made it work. Sore needed gravel, it was mostly sticky dirt that got tracked into our travel trailer immediately after sweeping," cautions Beverly J. about Clifty Falls State Park conditions.
Water and electric options: RVers should note the varying hookup availability across different campgrounds. "Potable water is available seasonally and firewood can be purchased at the forest office. A number of the sites are waterfront offering a relaxing view...but definitely geared for the tent camper or RVer not requiring shore power," explains Stephen & Theresa B. about pet friendly camping at Jackson-Washington State Forest.
Dump station access: For those staying at primitive sites, nearby facilities provide services. "We had plenty of tankage for our overnight, so, we did not hook up the water and the electric was 50A. Our site had no sewer hook up but on the way out there is a good dump station," notes Charlie M. about Columbus Woods-N-Waters facilities.
