Camping near Vincennes, Indiana offers diverse options within 40 miles of this historic river town. The region sits at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level in the Wabash River Valley, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 85-95°F. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with several state parks offering year-round camping opportunities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Red Hills State Park provides access to a 40-acre lake with several species of fish. "Nice and quiet with a small lake. Really shaded. Great fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel cat. Boats allowed with electric motors only. Max depth is 21 feet," notes Donald T. from Red Hills Lake State Park.
Hiking trails: Explore the natural surroundings on well-maintained paths. At Beall Woods State Park, "Trails are well defined. Visitor center at park is very nice. Birds, wildlife abundant," according to Rc C. The park offers primitive camping with pit toilets and water access.
Disc golf courses: Prides Creek Co Park features an exceptional disc golf course according to Nathaniel R.: "As a avid disc golfer, I absolutely love coming to the place for events. The permanent campers are super friendly. A beautiful lake with plenty of activities to do on it. The disc golf course is top notice. One (if not best in the state)."
What campers like
Lake activities: West Boggs Park offers multiple water-based recreation options. "Boggs is great for Families. They have great activities such as outdoor movies, scavenger hunts, and more. They are golf cart friendly with many well-maintained trails. Many spots are well shaded and there is a great section of lakefront spots as well," says Taylor.
Swimming facilities: Shakamak State Park features an impressive aquatic center. "There's no beach, but they have an enormous pool. It has slides & everything," mentions Cynthia K. The park also offers "three lakes spanning some 400 acres that are known for spectacular fishing," according to Stephen & Theresa B.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web. Kudos to the park employees & camp hosts!" reports Cynthia K. about Shakamak State Park.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Mobile connectivity differs significantly between parks. At Prides Creek Co Park, Laura H. notes, "They had decent AT&T service, I'm not sure about Campground WiFi." Meanwhile, at Shakamak State Park, Lisa M. reports, "One downside was we had Verizon as a cell phone carrier and only had one bar."
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities operate on limited schedules. At Red Hills State Park, "Wish the restaurant was open, but told it may be next Spring," mentions Tracie E. Similarly, Cynthia K. found at Shakamak that "The Nature Center was inexplicably closed 'for the season'. Disappointing!"
Campsite levelness: The terrain affects site quality across the region. At West Boggs Park, Stephen H. observes: "There are plenty of campsites with gravel pads. I haven't seen any of the pads that are terribly unlevel." This contrasts with some parks where levelness can be an issue.
Tips for camping with families
Pool activities: Glendale State Fish and Wildlife Area offers fishing-focused family recreation. "Campground can be crowded when the fishing is good. I rated it on the fishing," says Jennifer K. The campground provides electric sites with 30-amp service on paved, level pads.
Kid-friendly areas: Red Hills State Park has dedicated spaces for children. Samantha H. mentions, "If you have kids they have play ground to play on. Host are very nice and welcoming." The park offers electric hookups with nearby water access.
Organized activities: Look for scheduled events at certain parks. At West Boggs Park, Taylor notes they have "great activities such as outdoor movies, scavenger hunts, and more. Their holiday/theme weekends are fun for all ages." These organized activities can keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Shakamak State Park, Josh S. advises, "They have pull spaces for large motor homes with 50 Amp electric. They also have several nice shower houses and plenty of dumpsters for dumping trash. Each site includes a fire pit, electric, and picknick table."
Hookup considerations: For RV camping near Vincennes, Indiana, West Boggs Park offers full-service sites in specific areas. "We prefer a small section of the park called Milligan's Point. There are only 10 spots, you're right on the water, and has full hook ups," recommends adrea S., highlighting the limited premium locations.
Extension cord requirements: Some electrical hookups are positioned awkwardly relative to camping pads. Cynthia K. recommends: "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit - the electric box is in an awkward place." This practical tip helps RVers properly position their vehicles at Shakamak State Park.
