The forested area around Avoca, Indiana sits at elevations between 500-800 feet above sea level in the unglaciated hills of south-central Indiana. The region contains several interconnected watersheds feeding Lake Monroe, Indiana's largest inland lake at 10,750 acres. Camping options range from primitive backcountry sites to full-hookup RV sites, with most campgrounds located within 15-20 minutes of Avoca.
What to do
Paddling access: Lake Monroe offers multiple boat ramps and paddling opportunities at Paynetown Campground. "There is a beach, the trails, the geocaches on the trails, kayak and boat rentals, the activity center. There is something for everyone and enough to fill up your days," notes Jamie B. Rental options include pontoons, canoes and kayaks for those without their own watercraft.
Cave exploration: Visit Spring Mill State Park Campground for cave tours. "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," states Donald T. The park also features a pioneer village and honors astronaut Virgil Grissom with a visitor center exhibit.
Mountain biking: The region offers extensive trail systems for cycling enthusiasts. "Hesitation point never disappoints. The mountain bike trails are fantastic," notes Michael S. about the riding options at Brown County State Park. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to technical sections for advanced riders.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate spacious, secluded sites at Hardin Ridge. "The site was really big with lots of shade. The fire pits are sinked into the ground which is not my favorite," mentions Adam K. The campground offers both reservable electric sites and first-come, first-served primitive sites.
Lake views: Many sites provide direct lake access or views. "We did a drive through to check out the campground. It was $8 for day use, self pay. This is a beautiful campground. There's 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric. Well spaced all tucked into the trees on a ridge," writes Cynthia K. about Hardin Ridge.
Backcountry solitude: Peninsula Trail offers primitive camping opportunities away from crowds. "On the peninsula trail, there are multiple campsites with fire rings but you may also camp anywhere if you are at least 100 ft from the water. Campsite #18 has a great view and is large enough for at least 4 tents if you have a big group," shares Aspen B. These hike-in sites provide more isolation than developed campgrounds.
What you should know
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "The site we stayed in was lovely. It was backed up to the edge of the woods which made for a lovely view. Driving through the campground it looks like there are some sites pretty close together but ours wasn't too bad. Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well," reports Amanda D. about Taylor Ridge Campground.
Boat traffic noise: Lake adjacent sites may experience noise from watercraft. "LOVE this trail. Just challenging enough to make it worth it. Campsites have great fire pits. Only downside is the drunk boat people that show up in the summer," notes Steve D. regarding Peninsula Trail camping.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "If you want to reserve a site, I highly suggest you do it very early in the season, especially if you are including a weekend," advises Deb T. Many campgrounds offer both reservable and first-come sites, but availability varies significantly by season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Some campgrounds offer scheduled programs for children. "The camp has traditions rooted deep within and is a very beautiful place to be. Highly recommend. Great summer program!!!" says Patrick S. about Ransburg Scout Reservation, which offers cabin and tent camping options.
Water recreation: Beaches and swimming areas provide entertainment for children. "This campground is on the south side of Monroe lake and has beach access. I tent camped solo and everything went great!" shares Christine C. Supervised swimming areas are available at multiple campgrounds around Lake Monroe.
Wildlife viewing: The nature centers and wildlife viewing opportunities engage children. "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed! There are a lot of diverse hiking trails for all," notes Jessie W. Many parks in the area maintain educational facilities with live animal exhibits.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: RVers should check specific site layouts before booking. "Level RV and tent sites, only some have water and electric. Large sites, clean amenities. Main road lead to the lake," advises Barb N. about Hoosier National Forest White Oak Loop Campground.
Size restrictions: Large rigs may find some campgrounds challenging to navigate. "The roads to get to the sites are tight (especially as it's filled up heading into the weekend). If you don't have a boat they offer pontoons, canoes and kayaks for rent," cautions Jennifer H. Many campgrounds in the Hoosier National Forest have narrow access roads not suitable for large motorhomes.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full-service hookups. "Great boondocking spot, plenty of flat land making leveling easy. Wide open so solar charging was easy," reports The Wandering Shores about Blackwell Campground. This location provides primitive camping with vault toilets but lacks water or electrical connections.
