Primitive camping spots and secluded sites define the outdoor experience near Shoals, Indiana, where the terrain includes ravines, limestone bluffs, and densely wooded areas. Campsites near Shoals typically receive moderate rainfall in spring and fall, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 500-700 feet, creating natural drainage that reduces standing water issues after rain.
What to do
Boat fishing: 8-mile access at West Boggs Park offers multiple shoreline and boat-based fishing opportunities. "The site has a great lake that has good fishing and the ability to put your boat out. Pets are welcome. They have sites for all forms of camping," notes a camper at West Boggs Park.
Disc golf: Free course access is available at Sleeping Bear Retreat for campers. "Plus they have disc golf, huge chess, and paintball," according to a visitor who enjoyed the recreational amenities beyond standard camping.
Cave exploration: 30-minute tours at Spring Mill State Park provide underground boat rides through cave systems. A reviewer highlighted this unique experience: "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there. We were able to rent a paddle boat for $8/hr and saw tons of turtles!"
Trail hiking: 7 miles of paths wind through Martin State Forest's pine-filled landscape. "Great trials. Tent campsites were well spaced out... New playground equipment for the kids," notes a camper who appreciated the combination of hiking and family amenities at Martin State Forest.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Water-view sites at Patoka Lake Campground provide direct lake access. "Our campsite had Great Lake views and a nice path to get down to the lake. Bathrooms and showers were clean," reports a satisfied visitor at Patoka Lake Campground.
Private woodland sites: Secluded options exist throughout the region for those seeking more isolation. A camper at Youngs Creek Horse Camp notes the environment offers "A quiet, peaceful spot in the forest. A few horses on the trail on weekends. French Lick is 30 minutes away."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "It is so dark at night that you can see the stars! Biggest lots too, you can fit like 10 tents and still have space to move!!" reports an enthusiastic visitor to Sleeping Bear Retreat.
Themed weekend events: Seasonal activities occur throughout the camping season. A camper at West Boggs Park shared: "Boggs is great for Families. They have great activities such as outdoor movies, scavenger hunts, and more. They are golf cart friendly with many well-maintained trails."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Spotty coverage affects emergency communications in some areas. At Patoka Lake, a camper reported: "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...weird)."
Toilet facilities vary: Plan accordingly based on campground amenities. At Shirley Creek Campground, a visitor noted: "There is a vault toilet on site though it isn't maintained, bring your own toiletries. I would like to see this camp in the spring especially if the cleaning is a little more often."
Site accessibility: Road conditions can limit some vehicles. A Shirley Creek camper advised: "Be aware that it's a pretty long drive in with lots of hill and some areas that are strictly gravel. Shouldn't need 4WD unless it's wet, at which point I wouldn't go as it's in a lower level area and prone to flooding."
Campground busyness: Weekday advantages offer quieter experiences. One visitor to Patoka Lake observed: "Camped Monday thru Friday, quite until Thursday. Filled up and noisy."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Supervised swimming options vary by location. A Spring Mill State Park visitor reported: "This was our first time camping at Spring Mill State Park, and we really enjoyed the park. There is a lot of family fun to be had there."
Playground access: Multiple options for children exist throughout the region. "This campground is beautiful. There's 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric. Well spaced all tucked into the trees on a ridge. Also some carry in sites," notes a visitor to Hardin Ridge.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing at nature centers provides learning experiences. A Patoka Lake camper shared: "The nature center is a delightful feature, offering a serene escape into the beauty of the surrounding area. The spacious campsites add to the allure, providing ample room for relaxation and enjoyment."
Vehicle traffic awareness: Monitor children in busy areas. The same Patoka Lake visitor warned: "It's important to exercise caution due to the high volume of boats in and out of the campground. Parents with small children should be especially vigilant, as vehicles towing trailers with boats are constantly coming and going."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring blocks for uneven pads. A visitor to Spring Mill State Park noted: "The site we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at. When we looked at the other site most of the shaded sites that had some privacy where also heavily sloped."
Water access planning: Fill tanks before arrival at certain campgrounds. "It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site," advises a Patoka Lake camper.
Dump station timing: Avoid Sunday rushes when possible. "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites but things moved quickly," reports a Patoka Lake reviewer who observed the efficiency despite crowding.
RV size limitations: Measure before booking at some campgrounds. A visitor to West Boggs Park cautioned: "If you are wanting sewer, this park is very limited for 45' Motorhomes. The available sites with sewer are all back in that are not very level and many are tight for Big Rigs including large trailers."
