Vallonia, Indiana sits at the edge of 18,000-acre Jackson-Washington State Forest with multiple camping options ranging from primitive to full-service. The area's rolling hills create dramatic elevation changes across hiking trails, with some areas reaching over 900 feet above sea level. Summers typically see temperatures in the 80s with moderate humidity, ideal for lake activities.
What to do
Hiking trails beyond Starve Hollow: Jackson-Washington State Forest offers challenging paths with significant elevation changes. "The property offers several stunning hiking trails and some are of the more challenging nature due to the elevation changes. The park also has an amazing scenic drive, Skyline Drive, which lives up to its name with spectacular panoramic vistas showcasing Indiana's gorgeous farms," notes a visitor to Jackson Washington State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the region provide fishing access. "My husband and I had a nice visit to Starve Hollow recently...we stayed 4 nights in our camper with our 3 dogs. We hiked 10 miles throughout the park, which was clean and pretty. We brought our canoe and a kayak, and enjoyed fishing the lake for small mouth bass, crappie, and cat fish," shares one camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground.
Water recreation: Several area lakes permit non-motorized or electric-motor watercraft. "The lake has a swimming area (no lifeguards), playgrounds, and bathhouse. The lake allows boats with electric trolling motor only," explains a review of Starve Hollow.
What campers like
Lakefront camping sites: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," reports a visitor to Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature good spacing and natural barriers. "Full hook-up sites are spacious. Trees are young, across the road from Brown County national forest so hiking galore. And a short drive to Downtown Nashville Indiana!" mentions a camper at Brown County-Nashville KOA.
Concrete camping pads: Several parks offer solid, level surfaces. "Campground was nice with concrete pads and full hookups. Campground was not heavily shaded, but we didn't mind that at all," notes a reviewer at Charlestown State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water facilities vary by season and location. "Potable water is available seasonally and firewood can be purchased at the forest office. A number of the sites are waterfront offering a relaxing view...but definitely geared for the tent camper or RVer not requiring shore power," explains a camper at Wooster Campground — Hardy Lake State Recreation Area.
Weekend crowding: Some locations get busy during peak periods. "It is very busy on Saturday's (and more than likely Friday's), but it clears out Sunday morning," notes a reviewer at Lake Monroe.
Electrical hookup locations: Some parks have unusual utility setups. "My site as well as all the other pull throughs close by should have had services setup on the opposite side. Whereas power and water were reasonably placed, the sewer was setup in a manner that waste water had to flow uphill," shares one RV visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark options: When glamping in Vallonia, Indiana with kids, consider parks with water features. "We came here in 2017 with a group of friends and camped in the primitive camping area. It was an awesome set up and we had a great time. We went around Halloween time so the kids participated in a costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, and trick or treat," recounts a visitor to Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe.
Multiple playgrounds: Several parks offer play areas throughout the campground. "The grounds were very clean, with a nice but crowded swimming area. Every one was very friendly and I think almost every camper had a dog with them," notes a camper about Delaney Creek Park.
Youth activities: Many campgrounds schedule special events. "Great getaway for the family. We love this place and camp here 5 + times a year. It's clean and so much to do with kids," shares a Starve Hollow visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven spots. "Some campsites flood easy," warns one Starve Hollow visitor, while another noted that "sites 12/13 do not have a view of the lake due to dense brush in front of it. All other lakefront sites have a view."
Hookup extensions: Bring additional utility cables. "The electric and water hookups are not in standard locations for RV hookups. Make sure you bring an extension for your electric hookup, otherwise you might not be able to reach the post," advises a visitor to Delaney Creek Park.
Alternative glamping options: For luxury camping near Vallonia, Indiana without an RV, several parks offer cabins or ready-made accommodations. "This campground became a KOA in late fall 2022. Since the new owners took over they have made wonderful improvements. Added a new saltwater pool, deluxe cabins, deluxe camping sites," notes a recent visitor to Camp Raintree Lake.
