Map showing campground location near Birdseye, Indiana

Camper submitted image from Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake

Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake

Boaters and anglers find direct access to Patoka Lake's 8,800 acres at this state recreation area campground in southern Indiana. The facility sits on the lake's shoreline, putting campers steps away from boat launches, swimming beaches, and fishing spots that draw repeat visitors.

Campsites feature paved parking pads with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings arranged in an open layout with minimal separation between neighbors. Mark S. notes "facilities are clean and well kept," echoing feedback about the maintained restrooms and shower buildings. The campground's position within the recreation area provides access to a disc golf course, archery range, and both paved and dirt trails that connect to other areas of the park.

Water activities dominate the recreation options here. Campers launch boats directly from the area, while the lake supports everything from fishing to floating cabin rentals. A nature center offers educational programs, and multiple beach areas provide swimming access during warmer months. The open campsite design means limited privacy but unobstructed lake views from many spots.

Pet owners will find the campground accommodates dogs, and the state park setting ensures consistent maintenance and staffing. For those seeking additional options in the region, camping spots outside Patoka Lake include both developed and primitive sites throughout southern Indiana's lake country.

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Location

Public Campground

Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake is located in Indiana

Coordinates

38.40000054 N
86.65800075 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 8 users
Last on 3/19/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 8 users
Last on 3/19/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Market
ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Sewer Hookups
Water Hookups

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 9 min from Louisville, KY
1 hr 13 min from Owensboro, KY
1 hr 15 min from Evansville, IN
1 hr 25 min from Bloomington, IN

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5 Stars

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1 Star

5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the well-maintained facilities, clean restrooms, and friendly staff at this lakeside campground. The main consideration is limited privacy between sites due to open spacing.

Mark S.

Scout

Reviewed Oct. 24, 2019

Great campground

Great campground. Facilities are clean and well kept. Good fishing lake. Friendly staff. Our favorite.

Walter K.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 16, 2019

Great Place

Camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and biking- so much fun

John A.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 26, 2018

excellent campground

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

Nick S.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 20, 2016

Good campground, bad weather :(

Campsites had paved parking pads, picnic table, fire-ring, and electrical hookups. Restrooms and showers were clean. Lot's of open space and nothing really separating you and your neighbors. 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. It also has a great nature center. Unfortunately our trip got cut short due to very high winds, but we will definitely be back!

(5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Newton Stewart Recreation Area part of Patoka Lake State Park?

Yes, Newton Stewart Recreation Area is part of the larger Patoka Lake complex. It serves as one of the main recreation areas providing access to Patoka Lake and its amenities. The area features well-maintained facilities including clean restrooms and showers, and provides opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The recreation area is managed as part of the state park system with staff on site to assist visitors.

Can you swim at Newton Stewart State Recreation Area?

Yes, swimming is available at Newton Stewart State Recreation Area. The recreation area is situated right on Patoka Lake, providing water access for visitors. Along with swimming, you can enjoy other water activities like boating and fishing. The lake serves as a central attraction for the recreation area, making it a popular destination for water-based recreation during the warmer months.

Where is Newton Stewart State Recreation Area located?

Newton Stewart State Recreation Area is located on the shores of Patoka Lake in southern Indiana. This recreation area offers visitors access to the lake and surrounding natural areas, with numerous outdoor activities available. The location provides an ideal setting for water recreation as well as camping, with paved sites situated near the lake's edge.

How do I make camping reservations at Newton Stewart on Patoka Lake?

Camping reservations for Newton Stewart State Recreation Area can be made through the Indiana State Parks reservation system. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. The campground offers sites with paved parking pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and electrical hookups. For the most current reservation information and availability, contact the park office directly or visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website.

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