Best Campgrounds near West Baden Springs, IN

Several campgrounds dot the landscape around West Baden Springs, Indiana, including Patoka Lake, Youngs Creek Horse Camp, and Spring Mill State Park. These camping areas vary from established campgrounds with full amenities to primitive sites in the Hoosier National Forest. The region supports tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin accommodations. Patoka Lake Campground provides electric hookups and shower facilities, while Shirley Creek Campground offers more rustic, primitive camping experiences approximately 15 miles from West Baden Springs.

Campsites in the area typically require reservations for developed facilities, though some primitive sites are first-come, first-served. "Shirley Creek Horse Camp is a underutilized camp well suited for a day or two of horse rides and camping. Generous campspots throughout perfectly suited for horses and humans alike," notes one visitor. Seasonal considerations affect camping conditions, with many campgrounds open year-round but offering reduced services during winter months. Water access at certain campgrounds like Youngs Creek may be limited seasonally, and campers should verify availability before arrival. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near larger developed campgrounds and spotty reception in more remote forest locations.

Campers consistently rate the spaciousness of sites as a highlight, particularly at Sleeping Bear Retreat where visitors appreciate the large, quiet camping areas. According to a review, "It is so dark at night that you can see the stars! Biggest lots too, you can fit like 10 tents and still have space to move!!" Most developed campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets or restroom facilities. Many campgrounds in the region provide access to recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating at Patoka Lake. The primitive camping areas like Youngs Creek Horse Camp receive praise for their tranquility and natural setting, with one camper noting it as "a quiet, peaceful spot in the forest" with occasional horses on nearby trails during weekends.

Best Camping Sites Near West Baden Springs, Indiana (132)

    1. Patoka Lake Campground

    36 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 338-5589

    $12 - $25 / night

    "My Aunt loves their trips to Patoka Lake & I can relate as to why after this weekend. We went for a wedding at the marina & ended by a lovely cove."

    "Pick a site that has water near and you won’t have to unhook to fill your tanks. So many sites are in the shade all day and peaceful. Showers are spotless but fun on the push button system."

    2. Spring Mill State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mitchell, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 849-3534

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Spring Mill State park is a little piece of history that is in the heart of southern Indiana. Here you will find a working frontier village."

    "Open space, close to facilities and water pump, Ground was mostly flat, slightly shady in the afternoon, and very peaceful."

    3. Youngs Creek Horse Camp

    8 Reviews
    Paoli, IN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "We camp here every time we come to Indiana. We have camped there in a truck camper, and now we tent camp with our Jeep. The sites are large, and there are fire rings available."

    "Site accommodates both horse, drive in and walk-in camping. There’s a privy and water on site. Campsites have fire rings and picnic tables."

    4. Sycamore Springs Park

    17 Reviews
    English, IN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 338-3846

    "There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground."

    "We were right at the lake edge. The campsite had electric but no water, but the water was just across the road at a shelter."

    5. Sleeping Bear Retreat

    2 Reviews
    French Lick, IN
    4 miles
    Website

    $20 - $55 / night

    6. Shirley Creek Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    3 Reviews
    West Baden Springs, IN
    6 miles
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "There is also a nice loop trail if you feel like hiking. Be aware that it’s a pretty long drive in with lots of hill and some areas that are strictly gravel."

    "Great trails that our kids (ages 2-9) loved. Only reason for 4 stars is no drinking water or fire pit."

    7. Martin State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Shoals, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 247-3491

    $13 / night

    "Generator okay but recommend use away from other campers."

    "This state forest is beautiful, filled with pines and a clear lake. It is a primative campground but is very nice. Has nice hiking trails and 7 miles of mountain bike trails."

    8. Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake

    4 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 685-2464

    "This SRA is right on Patoka Lake, so there's plenty to do on the water - boating, fishing, floating cabins, beaches. There's also a disc golf course, archery range, and plenty of paved & dirt trails."

    "Beautiful campground and lake. Quiet and very well maintained facilities."

    9. Springs Valley Rec Area

    1 Review
    French Lick, IN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "the campground is closed for overnight camping, but this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. electric motors only, so nice and quiet."

    10. West Boggs Park

    11 Reviews
    Loogootee, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 295-3421

    "This is a beautiful campground right on the lake near Loogootee, Indiana. Lots of golf carts cruise the campground. That can be a little dangerous. So you need to watch your little ones closely."

    "West Boggs lake is near the heart of Indiana's Amish country. It has a great lake that has good fishing and the ability to put your boat out. Pets are welcome."

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Recent Reviews near West Baden Springs, IN

728 Reviews of 132 West Baden Springs Campgrounds


  • J
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping

    Disbursed camping at its Indiana best

    Free disbursed camping at its best in Indiana. Not another soul camped within earshot. Clean site. Gravel pad for vehicle. Green grass for tent. 14 day limit. No reservations needed or available. Just show up and camp if a site is open. This site was very well marked.

  • Jon R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Nighthawk Forest

    Nighthawk Forrest Sept 2024

    Great little campground with accessible trails and small pond. I had a primitive site with pad. Nestled in the trees gave off nice shade. They have showers and ice available (but didn’t know about the ice until I was checking out). About 15 minutes from Patoka Lake. I would recommend this campground if in the area.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Hoosier National Forest Goldenrod Loop Campground

    Nice, small, remote campground

    Beautiful, heavily wooded, quiet campground. We are in a big rig but most people here are tent camping. Lake is small. Very peaceful, helpful attendant at gate checked in on us first day. We have electricity and water but no sewer hookups. Dump station available. If you just want to to get away and relax for a few days this is nice. But if you’re looking for lots of recreation opportunities you want to find a larger lake. There are a few trails but they are short.

  • Kyle H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Scottsburg/Raintree Lake KOA

    Great Campground

    Quick two night stay for us but although our first time here was short we will certainly be back. Campground is clean and very well maintained. Owners are very involved and run things very thoughtfully.

    They were able to accommodate our 44ft 5th wheel and navigating to the site was simple. Can’t wait to come back and visit.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping

    Camping area

    National forest area with 3ish campsites one of which can accommodate a vehicle. Wooded so no solar or starlink. Small lake nearby with what looks like some trails.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    Small pull off on the side of a gravel road.

    This is a bare bones location. There was evidence of a homemade fire pit and a small cleared area. No cell service at the site but there was a bar or two on the road just a few feet away. With a weboost there was att and tmobile service. Very quiet, only 2 vehicles passed by in the 36 hours I was there. 38.515995, -85.870726, 871 ft

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park

    Nice Trails & Big Campsites

    I had a great time camping here. The spots in Taylor ridge were mostly well-spaced and felt pretty private. The pit toilets were clean and the showers were nice. Busy campground but it was very quiet still. 262 was the biggest and most private site I saw when walking around. 260 is a pull through site.

  • Desert B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Knobstone Trail

    not accessible

    Maybe Google Maps took me to the wrong place (probably not).  I drove back and forth on the road several times looking for this place  The only thing I found was what I believe was the entrance with a cable across it.  There was no place to park otherwise.


Guide to West Baden Springs

Camping near West Baden Springs, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Charlestown State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great hiking opportunities and cool exploration of historic Rose Island Theme Park. It's definitely a new favorite!"
  • Fishing and Boating: At Patoka Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A reviewer shared, "The abundance of activities at this state park ensures there's never a dull moment."
  • Wine and Brewery Tours: Nearby wineries and breweries are a hit. One camper noted, "We also had the pleasure of exploring the local winery and brewery, which were a big hit with our group."

What campers like

  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Hardin Ridge. A reviewer said, "Beautiful spacious sites. Spread out with plenty of room between sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One camper at Paynetown Campground remarked, "Restrooms/showers were state park clean. I was impressed with the hard-working staff."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Starve Hollow State Rec Area said, "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities."

What you should know

  • No Water Hookups: If you're staying at Patoka Lake Campground, remember that there are no water hookups. One camper advised, "It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving."
  • Busy on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Paynetown Campground mentioned, "This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend."
  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be aware that some areas have poor reception. A camper at Lake Rudolph Campground noted, "Cell service was poor... but NO internet service when things get busy."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Shady Sites: Look for campsites that offer shade, especially during hot summer months. A camper at Shakamak State Park said, "Most of the sites are shady. Our favorite site is 72."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities for kids. One family at Spring Mill State Park Campground enjoyed the "pioneer village... really something to see with staff playing as villagers of the period."
  • Watch for Wildlife: Keep an eye on food to avoid raccoons. A camper at Taylor Ridge Campground warned, "MAKE SURE TO PUT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FOOD!!! Even scraps and Yes even DOG FOOD."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to check the level of your campsite. A reviewer at Buffalo Ridge Campground advised, "Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A camper at Lake Rudolph Campground appreciated, "Having electric and water was nice."
  • Plan for Busy Times: If you're visiting during peak season, consider making reservations early. A camper at Hardin Ridge mentioned, "You can reserve sites, or some are first come first served."

Camping near West Baden Springs, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near West Baden Springs, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, West Baden Springs, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 132 campgrounds and RV parks near West Baden Springs, IN and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near West Baden Springs, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near West Baden Springs, IN is Patoka Lake Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near West Baden Springs, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near West Baden Springs, IN.

What parks are near West Baden Springs, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near West Baden Springs, IN that allow camping, notably Patoka Lake and Hoosier National Forest.