Fishing enthusiasts and boaters will find direct lake access at Patoka Lake Campground, a state-managed facility spread across multiple sections near the shores of Indiana's second-largest reservoir. The campground accommodates both RVs and tents across varied terrain, with some sites offering trail access directly to rocky beaches along the water's edge.
Site layouts differ significantly throughout the property. Joe U. notes that "site 200 is the penultimate site on this loop with copious amounts of space and two trails to the lake from the site." Many reviewers mention the uneven nature of tent sites, particularly in the modern campground section, where campers need to scout carefully for level ground. The property includes both secluded wooded sites and more open areas closer to facilities.
The campground provides 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups but no water connections at individual sites. Water is available at spigots throughout the grounds during peak season, though after October 31st, the only source becomes the camp store faucet. Four-lane dump stations handle the high volume of RVs efficiently. A well-stocked camp store carries essentials from groceries to camping supplies, while heated shower facilities remain open year-round with warm water available.
Cell service proves inconsistent across carriers, with particularly poor internet connectivity during busy weekends. The large scale of the operation means bathroom facilities can become crowded during peak times due to the high ratio of campsites to shower buildings. Heavy boat traffic creates constant vehicle movement through the campground, especially on weekends.
For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore Newton-Stewart just south of the main campground or Springs Valley Rec Area to the northeast. Reserve weekend spots well in advance, as this popular destination fills quickly during boating season.
Description
With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake campground is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR. Camping: -Electric / 455 sites -Primitive / 45 sites -Dumping Station
Reservation Info
WARNING: 4/14/22 - BLUE-GREEN ALGAE is dangerous for humans and pets:
Blue-green algae is at the ADVISORY alert level for the beach at PATOKA LAKE: Swimming and boating are permitted. Avoid contact with algae. Avoid swallowing water while swimming. Take a bath or shower with warm soapy water after coming in contact with lake water. Do not use lake water for cooking or bathing. Do not allow your pets to swim or drink water where algae are present. Check back for updates. Learn more about blue-green algae.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Found in lakes year-round. Don't drink the water. Shower after you swim. More information.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundPatoka Lake Campground is located in Indiana
Directions
FROM THE NORTH: STATE ROAD 37 SOUTH TO PAOLI, FROM PAOLI TAKE STATE ROAD 150/56 WEST TO WEST BADEN SPRINGS AND FRENCH LICK, FROM FRENCH LICK GO SOUTH ON STATE ROAD 145 TO STATE ROAD 164. WEST ON STATE ROAD 164 ONE MILE TO DILLARD ROAD AND TURN NORTH. FROM THE SOUTH, EAST AND WEST USE INTERSTATE 64, GO TO EXIT 79, TAKE STATE ROAD 37 NORTH TO STATE ROAD 64 TO STATE ROAD 145, THEN TO STATE ROAD 164.
Address
3084 N Dillard Rd
Birdseye, IN 47513
Coordinates
38.40598009 N
86.65350928 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/17/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/17/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/17/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/17/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Louisville, KY
- 1 hr 15 min from Owensboro, KY
- 1 hr 18 min from Evansville, IN
- 1 hr 27 min from Bloomington, IN

















































