The Hoosier National Forest surrounds the Sulphur, Indiana area, providing numerous camping opportunities within its 203,000 acres of public land. Patoka Lake Campground, Indian-Celina Recreation Area, and O'Bannon Woods State Park offer developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and hookups. The camping landscape includes primitive tent sites, RV-compatible areas with full hookups, and cabin rentals at locations like Sycamore Springs Park and Marengo Cave Campgrounds. Most established campgrounds provide electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, while more remote areas offer dispersed camping with minimal facilities.
Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating fully from April through October. Some locations like Patoka Lake and O'Bannon Woods remain open year-round but with reduced services during winter months. Travelers should note that many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. The terrain varies from lakeside settings to dense forested areas with hiking trails connecting many sites. Water access points are available at several locations, including Tipsaw Lake, which permits electric motors only. Cell service can be spotty throughout the Hoosier National Forest. "This is NOT a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land. There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities. However, if you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle, this is quiet, secluded, and beautiful," noted one visitor describing dispersed camping options.
Waterfront campsites at Tipsaw Lake and Patoka Lake receive consistently positive reviews for their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Most developed campgrounds provide showers and restrooms, though their availability may be limited during off-season periods. Visitors highlight the hiking opportunities throughout the region, with multiple trail systems connecting campgrounds to natural features. The five-mile Tipsaw Lake Trail receives particular mention for its moderate difficulty and rewarding views. Campers frequently note the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the area. For those seeking more isolated experiences, Mitchell Creek Road offers dispersed camping options, though these lack amenities and are best suited for self-contained vehicles. Multiple reviewers mention the proximity to interesting geological features, including Hemlock Cliffs, Yellow Birch Ravine, and Marengo Cave, making the area appealing for extended stays.
$24 - $52 / night
"This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispered camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site."
"Indian Lake is co-located with Celina Lake and two campground. Once you turn off of IN37 you just keep straight to get to Indian Lake."
"There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground."
"We were right at the lake edge. The campsite had electric but no water, but the water was just across the road at a shelter."
$14 - $45 / night
"My Aunt loves their trips to Patoka Lake & I can relate as to why after this weekend. We went for a wedding at the marina & ended by a lovely cove."
"Pick a site that has water near and you won’t have to unhook to fill your tanks. So many sites are in the shade all day and peaceful. Showers are spotless but fun on the push button system."
$23 - $496 / night
"There is also no sewer hookup at the site which I assumed was wrong, because I have never been to an Indiana state park with sewer hookup on site."
"The campground is near the trail to the old abandoned bridge which is well worth the hike. The fire tower has a commanding view."
"It used to have a sweet little walk in spot down the bouldering trail that looked over the river. Now it is overgrown and you can't get back there."
"There actually wasn’t any camp grounds open when we got there but we were so exhausted from the drive and it was 4am so we parking at the trail head and got a 3 hour nap in."
$24 - $80 / night
"This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down!"
"Located in the beautiful rolling hills of southern Indiana not far from I-64 (exit 79)."
$27 / night
"Camp store, cave tours, gift shop, and other pay activities are within steps of camping, but only open until 5:00. No security or staff at all after hours."
"I was really surprised that in my 30 years of living in Indiana, I had never been to Marengo Cave. It's both great for kids and adults."
$5 / night
"There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in."
"This is a centrally located primitive campground that my siblings and I use often for weekend expeditions."
"There are two lakes, Indian and Celina , in the immediate area, electric motors only, which just adds to my liking it;)."
"My husband and I have been to Lake Celina for a day hike before, so when planning where to go for a weekend of car camping choosing this place was a no brainer."
"South Slope Loop At Hoosier National Forest is located second campground in on your way to Celina lake. This is the RV friendly campground with electrical hookups for your toys."
TravelerLovely nature sanctuary featuring family-friendly camping and a separate, clothing optional area. Showers and ports potties available as well. There are occasional festivals & events with bonfires, activities, and drumming
TravelerI really enjoyed my stay here! It's quiet but not too quiet if ya know what I mean. The bathrooms and laundry room are always clean, if something breaks they make it right and it's close to almost everything! Very understanding people with the exception of 1 (which I felt like he didn't like me from the jump) but it's ok. Gina (my fav) and Darlene made up for it. Tim was nice, just quiet! Great bunch of people! So go check it out and tell them Tina said hi 😉
ScoutThe managers, James and Kate, are extremely unprofessional. They kicked out my family because they preferred another family better. My son was sexually abused TWICE at this campground. When I mentioned contacting corporate, James got irrate and said they will only send you back to me so go ahead and try. James falsely accused my children of making messes in the bathrooms and I quote,"Smearing sh** on the walls." He also told me that no one wanted us at the park even though we have never been informed of breaking any rules. These people are sorry excuses of management and should be replaced with more competent employees
GuideI’ve been coming here since I was a kid, the trees are beautiful, you can camp here and it feels like forest camping, most lots have spots for hammocks, electric but no water hook up, the bath house is ok, clean but concrete showers with a curtain and takes a while to get hot water. Lots of trails and a cute nature center. They only have two playgrounds, but a big pool for summer fun. I love it here, it’s usually not crowded and super peaceful. We prefer most lots on the outer edge of the campground. A lot of the picnic tables are old and require covers.
TravelerFirst time to Spring Mill State Park in over 30 years. It was a three night trip, with two full days packed full of hiking, exploring, and hanging out. Stayed in the full hookup campground, which was nice. Pioneer Village is really neat, and we hiked about every trail, including some exploring in the Donaldson cave. (bring some flashlights so you can really get past the entrance.) We did the mountain bike trail, and the kids 8&12 had no issue keeping up.
ScoutWe happened across this place and couldn’t have found a more friendly place to camp. Owner introduce himself right away and told us all about the area and history of campground. Pool wasn’t open yet but nice safe place to camp.
GuideThe campground here has been very nice. Coming into the campground there are two areas of road that have been torn out and need repaired, but nothing you couldn't get over, just slow down. Otherwise, nice campsites, plenty of space, well maintained, water and showers already on at comfort station. Tons of kids with large play park. We liked that the park had small walk trails within the campground with direct routes to the comfort station, and lights at the start of the path to identify it. All around, great experience, will be back again.
ScoutAll sound carried on our loop. We heard everything from conversation to wood chopping a bit loudly. It was quiet until 8pm when people really started showing up for the weekend.
ScoutThe sites are well maintained. They offer a fire ring. A few also have tables. Its pretty quiet and all are very friendly!
Dispersed camping near Sulphur, Indiana offers options throughout the Hoosier National Forest's 203,000 acres. Sites along Mitchell Creek Road typically sit at elevations of 600-700 feet above sea level, with rolling terrain characterizing most camping spots. Winter temperatures average 25-40°F while summer camping conditions range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity levels.
Trail exploration: 5-mile hike around Tipsaw Lake provides moderate terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. "The Tipsaw Lake Trail is 5.9 miles of technical rolling hills with complete tree coverage. We hiked it and I noticed that it is a little overgrown but overall a nice trail," notes a visitor to Tipsaw Lake.
Cave tours: Marengo Cave National Landmark features underground exploration options with crystal formations. "I was really surprised that in my 30 years of living in Indiana, I had never been to Marengo Cave. It's both great for kids and adults. The people are super friendly and there are two different parts to explore. The dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern," reports a camper at Marengo Cave Campgrounds.
Fishing: Electric-motor only lakes create quiet fishing environments. "Nice quiet and a Great Lake to go fishing," mentions a visitor to Indian-Celina Recreation Area. Multiple small lakes throughout the region restrict motorized boats to electric motors only, preserving calm water conditions.
Secluded campsites: North Face Loop offers more private sites than many developed campgrounds. "Moderately wooded, well spaced, basic sites that provide privacy and shade. There are walk in sites as well with picnic table and fire ring," explains a camper at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower houses receive consistent positive reviews. "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and sinks which were nice," notes a visitor to Indian-Celina Recreation Area. Another camper adds, "The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets, and had the best TP in them."
Budget-friendly options: Buzzard Roost Campground provides free camping with basic amenities. "There's a nice trail that overlooks the river and has a cleared vantage point with a bench," states a visitor to Buzzard Roost Campground. Another camper notes, "Only five sites. Reasonably quiet. Nice vault toilet. No hookups but it's free. Right along the Ohio River."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies throughout the national forest. "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 a visitor to Patoka Lake Campground.
Tick prevention essential: Heavy tick presence reported during warmer months. "Ticks are bad with the rain and overgrowth so apply your bug spray liberally!" warns a camper at Tipsaw Lake. Another visitor notes, "Tick were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure."
Water access varies by campground: Not all sites have water hookups. "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 a visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park.
Multiple playgrounds at Sycamore Springs Park: Family-focused facilities throughout. "Playgrounds everywhere. Nice big sites with full hookups in the newer section. We were able to go 'creeking' do trail walking, bike riding. Just a super neat little place. They even have a little village set up houses to play in!" explains a camper at Sycamore Springs Park.
Swimming options beyond lakes: Some parks offer pools and beaches. "Pool was very nice with a splash pad and two water slides (42" height requirement) and a small concession stand. Have to pay entry to the pool wether you're swimming or not," notes a visitor to O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "Nature center was basic but well prepared with critters and educational items," reports a camper at O'Bannon Woods. Another visitor mentions, "We enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails."
Site selection considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "This is a small campground (13 sites). 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 a visitor to Saddle Lake Campground.
Hook-up availability: Electric service varies by location. "South Slope Loop at Hoosier National Forest is located second campground in on your way to Celina lake. This is the RV friendly campground with electrical hookups for your toys," explains a visitor to Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground.
Dump station logistics: Plan for potential wait times at busier campgrounds. "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites but things moved quickly," notes a camper at Patoka Lake Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Sulphur Campground open during the year?
Most Indiana state park campgrounds operate seasonally, typically opening in spring and closing in late fall. Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground represents a typical operation pattern for the region, with full services during summer months. West Boggs Park near Loogootee is another example of a lakeside campground that maintains seasonal operations. Weather conditions may affect opening dates, so it's advisable to check current status before planning your trip, especially in early spring or late fall.
What amenities are available at Sulphur Campground?
Based on similar campgrounds in the region, Sulphur Campground likely offers electric hookups, water access, and restroom facilities. Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park provides a good example with electric hookups (both 30A and 50A sites), water access, clean shower houses, dump stations, and a camp store. Many Indiana campgrounds also feature picnic tables and fire rings at each site. For more primitive camping options, Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed offers roadside pull-offs without amenities for self-contained camping.
How do I reserve a site at Sulphur Campground?
Reservations for many Indiana campgrounds can be made online through the state reservation system or by phone. Tipsaw Lake in the Hoosier National Forest uses a reservation system where rangers are available to assist with questions. For group camping areas like Hoosier National Forest Goldenrod Loop Campground, reservations are required in advance. It's recommended to book early, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as popular campgrounds fill quickly.
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