Camping near Sulphur, IN

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.

What to do

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.

What campers like

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."

What you should know

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.

Tips for camping with families

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."

Tips for RVers

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.