Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers equestrian facilities 30 minutes northeast of Star City, Indiana. The park spans 2,761 acres along the Tippecanoe River in Pulaski County. Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, the area experiences cold winters with temperatures dropping to -15°F and warm summers with highs around 85°F. Trail riding opportunities extend through multiple seasons, with spring and fall providing optimal conditions.
What to do
Climb the fire tower: Tippecanoe River State Park features a fire tower accessible via a short hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. "Small but worth going. Fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax," reports Nicole B. at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground.
Explore hiking trails: Multiple trail options accommodate various skill levels throughout the area. "I've not camped here, just gone for hikes but the hikes are okay. They aren't really anything special and aren't really well marked either," notes Kaley A. about Tippecanoe River. For more diverse terrain, check out Salamonie River State Forest where "each season offers a different kind of beauty" according to Whitley K., who adds "even the trails we frequent always seem new."
Fish local waterways: Anglers can access fishing opportunities along the Tippecanoe River, though success rates vary by season and conditions. Cynthia K. reports that "fishing was poor according to my husband" at Tippecanoe River State Park, suggesting visitors might want to have backup activities planned.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: The relative seclusion of equestrian camping areas near Star City provides a quiet retreat. "This is the place to go for a quiet simple camping trip. There is no pool or camp store and cell service is limited so it is a great place to get away from it all," explains Dawn K. about Tippecanoe River State Park.
Natural surroundings: The forested landscape creates an immersive outdoor experience. Gary S. appreciates the "mature wooded campground" at Tippecanoe River State Park, noting it was "about as good as it gets for us" during autumn.
Low-cost options: Budget-friendly primitive sites are available for those seeking minimalist accommodations. Amber P. shares that Salamonie River State Forest is "cheap, $13 self pay. No electric or showers but do have bathroom. Very secluded luv it here."
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly during summer months. Rob H. concisely states that Tippecanoe River State Park is the "worst place for mosquitoes." At Potato Creek State Park, Frank M. advises, "natural wetlands abound, so definitely bring the mosquito spray."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between carriers throughout the area. Monica C. reports from Tippecanoe River: "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service."
Water availability: Secure water before setting up camp as access points may be limited. Cynthia K. recommends visitors "get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse" at Tippecanoe River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, certain sites provide direct playground access. "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground & you can watch your children from your site," advises Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe at Tippecanoe River State Park.
Organized activities: Seasonal programs offer educational opportunities. Monica C. shares, "Did participate in a star gazing event being held that weekend and it is still something my husband and I talk about regularly."
Bike-friendly paths: Multiple parks feature kid-appropriate riding routes. "Bike trails, hiking trails, fishing, beach fun for the whole family," summarizes Brad H. about Potato Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Electric sites require planning for cord length. Frank M. warns campers at Potato Creek State Park to "be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."
Site selection strategy: More secluded spots tend to be located in specific campground sections. Frank M. recommends "securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust."
Travel time considerations: Allow extra time for campground navigation. Frank notes at Potato Creek that it "takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind."