Established Camping
Yellowwood State Forest
Yellowwood State Forest, near Nashville, Indiana, is a fantastic spot for those who love a bit of rustic charm and outdoor adventure. This campground offers primitive camping with a focus on nature, featuring spacious sites surrounded by trees and close to the beautiful Yellowwood Lake.
Visitors rave about the fishing opportunities right from the shore, with many campsites just a short walk to the water's edge. As one camper noted, “Lots of primitive campsites here. Many have short trails from them to the lake edge, making for some great night fishing with a cozy fire to return to.” The campground also has picnic tables and fire rings at each site, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars.
If you're into hiking, you’ll find several trails that vary in difficulty, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes of the area. The campground is first-come, first-served, so be sure to arrive early to snag a good spot. While there are no showers or electric hookups, the peaceful and secluded atmosphere makes it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
For those who enjoy a bit of history, gold panning is even allowed here with a permit! Whether you're camping solo, with family, or friends, Yellowwood State Forest offers a laid-back experience that keeps you connected to nature.
Description
Indiana DNR, Forestry Division
Yellowwood State Forest
Yellowwood State Forest was created in 1940 when federal land was leased to the state of Indiana. The land was deeded to the state in 1956. Prior to that time, the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Project Administration completed three lakes, a shelter house, and a residence, all still in use.
More than 2,000 abandoned and eroded acres were planted to pine (red, jack, shortleaf, white, and scotch), black locust, black walnut, white, and red oak. Red and white pines are the true northern pines and are still in good condition. The other pines are succumbing to insects, disease, and extremely cold winters.
Yellowwood Lake was completed in 1939. The 133-acre lake is about 30 feet deep.
Location
Yellowwood State Forest is located in Indiana
Directions
From Bloomington: At intersection of SR 446 and SR 46 East, travel east for 9.4 miles, turn left onto Yellowwood Rd, follow for 1.2 miles to stop sign, turn left to stay on Yellowwood Rd for 1 mile to next intersection, turn right onto Yellowwood Lake Rd, follow for 0.7 mile, turn left into Yellowwood State Forest office parking lot. From Nashville: At intersection of SR 135 and SR 46 East, travel West for 5.8 miles, turn right onto onto Yellowwood Rd, follow for 1.2 miles to stop sign, turn left to stay on Yellowwood Rd for 1 mile to next intersection, turn right onto Yellowwood Lake Rd, follow for 0.7 mile, turn left into Yellowwood State Forest office parking lot. The address for the lodge is 4004 Green Valley Rd, Nashville, IN 47448.
Address
772 Yellowwood Lake Road
Nashville, IN 47448
Coordinates
39.18600032 N
86.33900055 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 18 min from Bloomington
- 31 min from Columbus
- 1 hr 3 min from Indianapolis
- 1 hr 22 min from Terre Haute