The best lakeside camping near Oakland City

·

In Oakland City, camping by the lake means easy access to calm water, quiet mornings, and plenty of space to cast a line or spot herons. With over 950 lake-focused campsites in this area, you’ll find options where you can swim, fish, or just unwind by the shore. Nightly rates average $40, but it’s possible to snag a spot for as little as $20. Top picks include Places of Sanctuary (51 reviews), Hill Springs Campground (48 reviews), and 15 Acre Wood on Lake (33 reviews). You’ll find sites that allow campfires, hot showers, and welcome pets—practical touches that make a difference after a long day of swimming or wildlife-watching. Bring your fishing gear and binoculars, and don’t forget to check which sites fill up fast on weekends.

96% (175) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Oakland City

Places of Sanctuary

1. Places of Sanctuary

99%
(71)
29mi from Oakland City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Hill Springs Campground

2. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(68)
33mi from Oakland City · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Hill Springs Campground is nestled on our 120-acre family farm, and we’re proud to be the third generation to care for this little piece of paradise. Tucked away in the heart of 'God’s country,' our campground offers peace and quiet, miles from the nearest town. The rolling hills provide hay for our cows and wood for the stove, and we take great pride in sharing this beautiful spot with you. Each site offers the chance to unwind by the pond, pick wild blackberries, or hike through our woods. Fire pits are available at all sites. Our sites are simple—no water, electricity, or internet—but generators are welcome, and we provide a toilet on-site. Please remember to pack out all your trash, including cigarette butts. For a glimpse of what to expect, check out a few videos of the campground on our Facebook page, 'hillspringcampground.' We’re also close to plenty of activities: Patoka Lake is just 3 miles away, with 8,800 acres of water, 26,000 sq. feet of land, and a variety of outdoor fun—boating, fishing, hiking, and even a winery. Historic French Lick and West Baden are 16 miles away, offering everything from casinos to a scenic railway, golf courses, a spa, a wildlife park, and the stunning West Baden Springs Hotel, known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' The city of Jasper is 14 miles away, with a charming riverwalk, museums, parks, and food trucks to explore. The small town of Dubois is just 4.5 miles away, with local taverns, a gas station, and a True Value store. At Hill Springs, you can be as close or as far away from the action as you want to be. We’re excited to share this experience with you and welcome your feedback as we start this journey with Hipcamp. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Bryan and Nicole
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

3. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

100%
(3)
18mi from Oakland City · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lincoln State Park

4. Lincoln State Park

299 sites · Gentryville, Indiana
Lincoln State Park: A Tribute to Nature and History.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ferdinand State Forest

5. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Painter Creek Camp Resort

6. Painter Creek Camp Resort

79%
(7)
42mi from Oakland City · 2 sites · RVs
Tucked back off of State Rd 145 in French Lick, IN our property offers year-round camping & full 50-amp hook ups available on all sites. A covered outdoor lounge, and a basketball court are available for guests to use, as well as seasonal bathhouse and laundry facility ($4 a load). We are only 1 mile from the Painter Creek Boat Ramp, and within a 15 min drive to Patoka Lake State Park, The French Lick-West Baden Resort, and The Pete Dye Golf Course!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
15 Acre Wood on Lake

7. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%
(43)
37mi from Oakland City · 3 sites · Tents
300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Nighthawk Forest

8. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
45mi from Oakland City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled deep in Hoosier National Forest and just a short drive from Paoli and French Lick, Indiana, Nighthawk Forest offers a secluded and pristine outdoor experience for all camping enthusiasts! Situated on 65 hilly and wooded acres, Nighthawk Forest features well-groomed tent pads, water and electric hookups for RVs and even vintage campers. Enjoy breathtaking walks in the woods, go fishing in our pond, and set up your camp chairs under the incredible night sky and marvel under the majesty of the Milky Way! Take a hike or a mountain bike ride on the Springs Valley Trail down to Tucker Lake. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Nighthawk Forest Campground. For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 812-203-0200.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Scales Lake Park

9. Scales Lake Park

20mi from Oakland City · 51 sites
Nestled on a stunning 66-acre lake, our campground offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, making it the perfect escape for everyone—from solo travelers to families and retirees. Here, you can unwind in a serene natural environment, where the soothing sounds of nature create an ideal backdrop for relaxation. Imagine gathering around a warm campfire on a clear evening, as the sky transitions from vibrant hues to a blanket of twinkling stars. Sharing these moments with loved ones amidst the beauty of the outdoors enhances the experience. At Scales Lake Park, we provide a variety of camping options to suit your needs. Our Class A sites come equipped with water, sewer, and electricity, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those seeking a more rustic experience, our Class B sites offer water and electric hookups, while our Class C primitive sites cater to the adventurous spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore nearby swimming holes, engage in outdoor activities, or enjoy local dining and shopping, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories at our picturesque campground.
John James Audubon State Park

10. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky
Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Patoka Lake

11. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Martin State Forest

12. Martin State Forest

26 sites · Shoals, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Martin State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water

In Oakland City, camping by the lake means easy access to calm water, quiet mornings, and plenty of space to cast a line or spot herons. With over 950 lake-focused campsites in this area, you’ll find options where you can swim, fish, or just unwind by the shore. Nightly rates average $40, but it’s possible to snag a spot for as little as $20. Top picks include Places of Sanctuary (51 reviews), Hill Springs Campground (48 reviews), and 15 Acre Wood on Lake (33 reviews). You’ll find sites that allow campfires, hot showers, and welcome pets—practical touches that make a difference after a long day of swimming or wildlife-watching. Bring your fishing gear and binoculars, and don’t forget to check which sites fill up fast on weekends.

96% (175) 22 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Oakland City

Places of Sanctuary

1. Places of Sanctuary

99%
(71)
29mi from Oakland City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Hill Springs Campground

2. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(68)
33mi from Oakland City · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Hill Springs Campground is nestled on our 120-acre family farm, and we’re proud to be the third generation to care for this little piece of paradise. Tucked away in the heart of 'God’s country,' our campground offers peace and quiet, miles from the nearest town. The rolling hills provide hay for our cows and wood for the stove, and we take great pride in sharing this beautiful spot with you. Each site offers the chance to unwind by the pond, pick wild blackberries, or hike through our woods. Fire pits are available at all sites. Our sites are simple—no water, electricity, or internet—but generators are welcome, and we provide a toilet on-site. Please remember to pack out all your trash, including cigarette butts. For a glimpse of what to expect, check out a few videos of the campground on our Facebook page, 'hillspringcampground.' We’re also close to plenty of activities: Patoka Lake is just 3 miles away, with 8,800 acres of water, 26,000 sq. feet of land, and a variety of outdoor fun—boating, fishing, hiking, and even a winery. Historic French Lick and West Baden are 16 miles away, offering everything from casinos to a scenic railway, golf courses, a spa, a wildlife park, and the stunning West Baden Springs Hotel, known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' The city of Jasper is 14 miles away, with a charming riverwalk, museums, parks, and food trucks to explore. The small town of Dubois is just 4.5 miles away, with local taverns, a gas station, and a True Value store. At Hill Springs, you can be as close or as far away from the action as you want to be. We’re excited to share this experience with you and welcome your feedback as we start this journey with Hipcamp. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Bryan and Nicole
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

3. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

100%
(3)
18mi from Oakland City · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lincoln State Park

4. Lincoln State Park

299 sites · Gentryville, Indiana
Lincoln State Park: A Tribute to Nature and History.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ferdinand State Forest

5. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Painter Creek Camp Resort

6. Painter Creek Camp Resort

79%
(7)
42mi from Oakland City · 2 sites · RVs
Tucked back off of State Rd 145 in French Lick, IN our property offers year-round camping & full 50-amp hook ups available on all sites. A covered outdoor lounge, and a basketball court are available for guests to use, as well as seasonal bathhouse and laundry facility ($4 a load). We are only 1 mile from the Painter Creek Boat Ramp, and within a 15 min drive to Patoka Lake State Park, The French Lick-West Baden Resort, and The Pete Dye Golf Course!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
15 Acre Wood on Lake

7. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%
(43)
37mi from Oakland City · 3 sites · Tents
300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Nighthawk Forest

8. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
45mi from Oakland City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled deep in Hoosier National Forest and just a short drive from Paoli and French Lick, Indiana, Nighthawk Forest offers a secluded and pristine outdoor experience for all camping enthusiasts! Situated on 65 hilly and wooded acres, Nighthawk Forest features well-groomed tent pads, water and electric hookups for RVs and even vintage campers. Enjoy breathtaking walks in the woods, go fishing in our pond, and set up your camp chairs under the incredible night sky and marvel under the majesty of the Milky Way! Take a hike or a mountain bike ride on the Springs Valley Trail down to Tucker Lake. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Nighthawk Forest Campground. For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 812-203-0200.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Scales Lake Park

9. Scales Lake Park

20mi from Oakland City · 51 sites
Nestled on a stunning 66-acre lake, our campground offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, making it the perfect escape for everyone—from solo travelers to families and retirees. Here, you can unwind in a serene natural environment, where the soothing sounds of nature create an ideal backdrop for relaxation. Imagine gathering around a warm campfire on a clear evening, as the sky transitions from vibrant hues to a blanket of twinkling stars. Sharing these moments with loved ones amidst the beauty of the outdoors enhances the experience. At Scales Lake Park, we provide a variety of camping options to suit your needs. Our Class A sites come equipped with water, sewer, and electricity, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those seeking a more rustic experience, our Class B sites offer water and electric hookups, while our Class C primitive sites cater to the adventurous spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore nearby swimming holes, engage in outdoor activities, or enjoy local dining and shopping, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories at our picturesque campground.
John James Audubon State Park

10. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky
Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Patoka Lake

11. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Martin State Forest

12. Martin State Forest

26 sites · Shoals, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Martin State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field