Patoka Lake and surrounding state forests offer pet friendly camping near Shoals, Indiana with over 200 campsites across multiple recreation areas. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level and features rolling hills characteristic of southern Indiana's topography. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Patoka Lake, anglers can enjoy the large reservoir. "Patoka has always had a hype about it for years; big lake, tons of boats, and fishing... Fish cleaning stations is right off the parking lot for the boat ramp so very convenient," notes Chelsea M.
Water recreation: Take advantage of floating cabins at Patoka Lake. "A large group of us rented two of the floating cabins and it was a blast. Plenty of space for sleeping with a kitchen and modern facilities. The boating and fishing are pretty good as well," shares Sarah S.
Hiking trails: Spring Mill State Park offers extensive walking paths. "We were able to rent a paddle boat for $8/hr and saw tons of turtles! We also went for a hike to see Donaldson cave and the kids absolutely loved it! It was beautiful, and the highlight of the trip," writes Jessie W.
Disc golf: Several campgrounds feature courses for disc golf enthusiasts. "Bathrooms were decent, plus they have disc golf, giant chess, and paintball!" according to an Alyssa S. review of Sleeping Bear Retreat.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Sleeping Bear Retreat provides excellent 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 Alyssa S.
Wildlife encounters: The forests around Shoals offer chances to see local fauna. "The chorus frogs do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people," explains Elizabeth W. about Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the maintained bathrooms. "This campsite was wonderful! It was well kept, quiet, and had everything! It is part of Hoosier National so there are unlimited trails, Monroe Lake, a beach and all kinds of playgrounds," notes Kenzie A. about Hardin Ridge.
Nature centers: "Patoka Lake has become our go-to campground for many reasons. The nature center is a delightful feature, offering a serene escape into the beauty of the surrounding area," shares Amanda V.
What you should know
Water access limitations: "It's important to note that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site," warns Amanda V. about Patoka Lake.
Shower temperature concerns: Be prepared for very hot water. "The ladies bathroom has a toilet that runs continuously and the showers are so hot that you can get burnt. I have not had the opportunity to camp since the shower was reported to know if it has been fixed," explains Jennifer K. about Glendale State Forest.
Wildlife precautions: Youngs Creek Horse Camp requires proper food storage. "I had been planning a trip to Youngs Creek for over a month and was happy to finally get there. YC horse camp is well laid out and fairly spacious, apparently only for the random hikers and hunters," reports Doc S.
Seasonal considerations: "We camped the first full week of April. Only waterfill location was at the camp store. Shower house was open and warm water was available," notes Kim C. about early spring camping at Patoka Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: "During our visit over fall break, the Halloween festivities and trick-or-treating added an extra layer of fun to our experience," shares Amanda V. about seasonal activities at Patoka Lake.
Educational opportunities: Hardin Ridge offers learning experiences for kids. "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!" explains Jessie W.
Safety near boat traffic: "Parents with small children should be especially vigilant, as vehicles towing trailers with boats are constantly coming and going," warns Amanda V. about Patoka Lake.
Pioneer village: "This state park has a very large camp ground, campers or primitive. It's a large park with tons of trails and even several caves. Some caves are guided by boat. Very neat to see. Also has a pioneer village for touring," notes Donald T. about Spring Mill State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Most campgrounds have varied terrain. "Sites were clean and in working order with 30A service. Facilities were in working order but didn't appear to be cleaned daily. Seemed to have a high ratio of campsites to showers so things get crowded with all the lake people wanting to shower frequently," explains Kyle about Newton Stewart State Recreation Area.
Dump station planning: "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites but things moved quickly," notes Kyle about Patoka Lake.
Big rig limitations: Choose sites carefully if you have a larger vehicle. "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," cautions Schelly D. about West Boggs County Park.
Campsite selection: "Campsites had paved parking pads, picnic table, fire-ring, and electrical hookups. Restrooms and showers were clean. Lot's of open space and nothing really separating you and your neighbors," explains Nick S. about Newton Stewart State Recreation Area.
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