The Hoosier National Forest surrounds much of the Tell City area, offering dense woodland camping on terrain that ranges from flat riverside areas to rolling hills. Campsites in this region typically sit at elevations between 400-700 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and high humidity levels. Winter camping near Tell City brings temperatures that regularly drop below freezing, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Disc golf at recreation areas: Scales Lake Park offers a disc golf course near their primitive camping area, providing a recreational option away from the water activities. As one visitor notes, "We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake. Literally just a picnic table and fire pit. There's pit toilets nearby."
Fishing in electric-only lakes: Indian-Celina Recreation Area restricts watercraft to electric motors only, creating peaceful fishing conditions. A camper explains, "The lakes are nice for fishing in a boat. Not much bank space to fish. The trails are cry nice. The making of some could be better."
Hiking the Two Rivers Trail: This 15-mile technical trail loops around both Indian and Celina Lakes, with dispersed camping options. According to a reviewer, "You can disperse camp for $5 a night as long as you are 300 ft from the trail. And take your bug spray or you may be nothing but a dried out husk by the end of your visit, ticks are horrible right now!"
Visit Holiday World theme park: For those seeking glamping near Tell City, Indiana with amusement park access, Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph provides convenient access to Holiday World. One camper shares, "The location of the campground is perfect if you're visiting for Holiday World / Splashin' Safari."
What campers like
Privacy in North Face Loop: Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground offers secluded sites with significant space between neighbors. A camper mentions, "My husband and I wanted a secluded quite camp as we also have our pup who gets a little too excited around strangers and other dogs. We got that in #7 camp in north loop. We felt like we own the place!"
Family-oriented activities: Campgrounds in this area frequently organize events specifically for children. One visitor at Lake Rudolph explains, "We come here every fall as its my kids absolute favorite. If you are looking for a quiet weekend with nature than this isn't your campground. It's loud, its full of kid events, put-put golf, hay rides, trick or treating, a kids dance party."
Historic sites within parks: Celina Lake features the Rickenbaugh Historic family home and cemetery with interpretive information. A reviewer notes, "The Rickenbaugh's once lived on this secluded lake and their home still sits on the shore. There is a kiosk nearby with information about them and the area and their family cemetery is about 100 yards up the road."
Clean facilities: Vastwood Co Park maintains well-kept amenities that campers appreciate. One review states, "Park features playground, paved biking and walking trails, disc golf, plenty of shade, lake with boat dock (non-motorized boats only), bath house, and dump station. Friendly staff; trash seemed to be emptied each weekday."
