The best camping near Pike State Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Pike State Forest adventure.

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Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.

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Community favorites near Pike State Forest

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Top-rated campgrounds near Pike State Forest

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Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

We now have 3 buildings for rent. The Cozy Camping Cottage, the Camping Cabin and the newest addition is our A-frame which is the most secluded spot on the land. - Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana to visit for 6 years. - Listed on Rachael Ray Magazine's "8 of America's Coolest Campgrounds" We offer a "Camping Cabin", The "Cozy Camping Cottage" or tent camping in Black Walnut Grove, in an open field, in the woods, or a shady grove. We like to interact with people or you can keep to yourself and have a quiet getaway in the woods. Sorry, but the tree house isn't available to rent since it is my home. I may rent it out in the future. Also in progress is the "Dome" We are on a solar powered, off the grid 30 acre homestead that has 24 acres of wooded land and 6 acres of groomed land. Come explore our land and relax in the "Tree Web", see the 2 story tree house that I live in, have fun on the tire swing, or just sit and enjoy all that nature has to offer. You can explore our interesting topography that has close to 100 foot of elevation changes, our (mostly) dry creek system that starts with 2 springs that drain into 3 sinkholes or walk 3 miles of trails (if you follow each trail from end to end). We love groups - Host your event here or have a group gathering with all your friends and family. We have spaces large enough to host hundreds of people. We welcome pets for camping, but no pets allow in the Camping Cabin. Also be aware that we have 2 friendly dogs on the land that roam freely. - 3.5 miles to Marengo Cave - 7 miles to the Blue River (canoes, rafting and swimming) - 30 minutes to Patoka Lake - 37 miles west of Louisville - 13 miles north of Interstate 64

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Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

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(8)

Waterfront Cabins and Camp Haven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Owensboro, KY

Welcome to Camp Safe Haven, your Family Oasis since 2005! Nestled just 11 miles west of Owensboro, KY, our property offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover our Waterfront Cabins and Tent Sites, where nature's serenity meets pretty water and nurturing hills. Indulge in our cozy cabins, either our poolside cabin in our campgrounds or our cabin in the woods, featuring scenic water views and nestled amidst the woods. Or, pitch your tent at one of our seven Tent Sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature day or night. Relax and unwind by taking a dip in our above-ground swimming pool or lounging on the poolside deck. Explore our beautiful trails winding through the property, offering encounters with the beauty of nature at every turn. At Camp Safe Haven, our mission is to nurture nature and secure serenity for all our guests. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make yourself at home as you embark on a memorable getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments

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Lost River Hostel

18 sites · Lodging31 acres · West Baden Springs, IN

The Lost River Hostel is a nonprofit arts and cultural center located on a 29+ acre hillside in West Baden Springs, Indiana overlooking a section of the Lost River valley. Lost River Hostel strives to build and maintain an extraordinary space fueled by a constant cycle of generosity and creativity. We hope everyone who stays here will go back into the world refreshed and rejuvenated – wanting to be better people and do great things. Everything we do here is driven by our mission statement: "To provide a sandbox for exploration of goals and growth through nature and human connection." We accomplish this by providing a distraction-free, reflective space that is welcoming of people from all backgrounds and beliefs. A communal dinner with gratitude circle is included in every stay. We also host workshops and events related to music, writing, yoga, organic gardening, cooking, and environmental sustainability.

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Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

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Sleeping Bear Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · French Lick, IN

Sleeping Bear Retreat is located on over 60 beautifully wooded acres in scenic French Lick, Indiana. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend getaway, a low cost family vacation, or a group stay, we are the place for you. We are pet friendly, as long as the pet is friendly, and on a leash.

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Lake View camping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Reynolds Station, KY

30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.

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Solar Off The Grid Cabin

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Paoli, IN

7 Acres close to skiing, hiking, spalunking, canoeing ,moutian biking and over 700 acres across the street of undeveloped Hoosier National Forest . Great for Hunting Learn more about this land: The Cabin is powered by solar & wind and uses a filtered rain water collection system. It is close to French Lick & Paoli, hiking, golf, canoeing, spelunking, skiing hunting and more. Please note that during the winter months the angle of the sun is lower and the panels do not produce as much power as in the summer months (plus you have less daylight hours) . Depending on the cloud cover you may be limited to lights only in November, December, January and February . There is a generator available for rent at $10.00 per night plus gas or you can bring your own. There is a wood stove and a 13,000 btu indoor gas wall heater for heat, both units provide more than enough heat. There are two window air conditioning units that can be used in May, June, July and August. Once you get to the end of August or on cloudy days you are limited to the amount of time you can use the AC units unless you rent the generator. There is a propane cook stove available if you run out of power and 2 charcoal grills (you supply charcoal). Please note that the cabin is still a work in progress and is not 100% completed. Also note that if rain is limited there may be no water.

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(5)

Doe Valley

1 site · Lodging17 acres · Paoli, IN

We have 17 acres of mostly woods but enough open land for some fruit trees and sheep pasture.

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MoonLight Grove Farm

2 sites · Tents12 acres · Battletown, KY

Simple living with a few critters and a "whole lotta" walnuts. All natural products made from nature's bounty. Learn more about this land:Come rest your mind and soul on MoonLight Grove Farm. Camp alongside the Ohio River, watch the barges go by and the Eagles swoop and play. Peaceful, Quiet, Restorative retreat.

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The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

94 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Owensville, IN

Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens. Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.

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Unplugged Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Birdseye, IN

Our land is nestled between tracts of the Ferdinand state forest. We have been on the property since 1999 and we have enjoyed sharing our little slice of heaven with friends and family thru the years. We promise you will be able to unwind once you get here. The property is mean for relaxing!Learn more about this land:A spacious flat yard atop a hill makes for a great spot to park your RV or camper. The grass camping lots are mowed and clean. Two large pine trees provide some shade for one of the camping spots. You can enjoy nearly panoramic views of the night sky! Bring your family and friends to enjoy these attractions near us are: Ferdinand State Forrest fire lane 12 ( is across the road from us. Enjoy hiking and mountain biking) Patoka lake is less than 10 minutes away ( boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking). Holiday World ( an amusement park) is about 30 minutes away. French Lick casino is about 30 minutes away. There are lots of local wineries to make for great road trips. Louisville is a little over an hour away. Paoli Peaks ( ski and snowboard attraction) is less than an hour away.

The best camping near Pike State Forest guide

Overview

About

Grab your horse or your hiking boots and head down to Pike State Forest for some outdoorsy goodness in the heart of southwestern Indiana. The forest covers a diverse area of hilly highlands and forested lowlands with the Pakota River slicing through it all. Home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, it is the perfect spot for the birder, fisher, and hunter to find their slice of happiness. After getting yourself and your gear all the way there, why not stay for a few days? Primitive camping and equestrian camping are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you can be spontaneous and go when the mood strikes.

Notable campgrounds

Family Camping Area: Offers 11 sites equipped with picnic tables and grills, perfect for a family retreat amid the forest.
Horseman's Campground: With 25 sites, this campground caters to equestrian enthusiasts looking to explore the bridle trails.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as campsites are first-come, first-served and tend to fill up quickly.
Visit during weekdays or outside of peak seasons for a better chance at snagging a prime camping location.
Keep an eye on the official website for any updates on campsite availability and potential cancellations.
Explore nearby camping options if Pike State Forest campgrounds are full, ensuring you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Pike State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery but can be hot and humid, while winter brings a quiet, frosty charm, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

Ensure you have a valid Indiana fishing or hunting license if you plan to engage in these activities.
Primitive camping is available for a fee, with pit toilets and seasonal drinking water provided.
During hunting season, hikers and horseback riders should wear hunter orange or bright clothing for safety.
Check the official website for any advisories or closures before your visit.
Remember to self-register upon arrival at the campgrounds, as this is required for all campers.