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Jackson-Washington State Forest

The best camping in Jackson-Washington State Forest, IN

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Stories from the community

Charles

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

Great experience. Beautiful place. Hope to stay there again…soon. Charlie

Jessica

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

This is our second time here and my goodness, it’s perfect. My daughter loves hiking on the property and petting the horses. It has everything you NEED and the warm shelter after a rainy hike at McCormicks Creek State Park is always what we need. Can’t wait to come back again. Our little dude with Cerebral Palsy could absolutely love this property too.

Matias Ignacio

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cera Sports Park and Campground

Quiet and beautiful place. Kids friendly. Clean bathrooms.

Livona

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Camp Escape

There's a lot of areas to walk, and let your dog run. It's great s itting on the deck watching the stars & enjoying the fireplace. It's was so peaceful.

Matthew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

I had a great experience. I stayed at Holmes Hideaway site and it was beautiful - on the river with seclusion, fire pits, and plenty of tree cover. I went in mid-november and it was not crowded. Everything done through the app and I was left alone. It was a fun weekend.

Jen

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was a phenomenal host with prompt details messages about local hikes and cave expeditions. He was patience with our staggered arrival. The creativity that goes into how the land is cultivated is clear. The suspended string platform was so zen being surrounded by a perfect autumn mosaic. The puppies and pigs on the property were so friendly and polite. We will be back!

Liv

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We stayed in one of the tiny glamping cabins and absolutely loved it. It is a simple little wooden box with a full-size bed you crawl into, and it ended up being the perfect cozy nest for the night. There was enough room to sit up, stash our gear, and our dog fit comfortably with us. It was a cold night, but our sleeping bags plus the structure kept us warm, and the sound of rain on the tin roof was unreal. Check-in was easy and the cabin was simple to find. It was clean in that ideal glamping way: not spotless, just naturally rustic and comfortable. The location is incredibly quiet and peaceful. We heard the occasional bit of road noise from a distant back country road, but nothing distracting. The sites are spaced far apart, so everything feels private. The host was wonderful. They gave us plenty of space but were also happy to chat with my husband about permaculture and building ponds. My favorite part of the stay was climbing into the web at night to look at the stars. It felt magical. The outhouse was also surprisingly nice, which was a great little bonus. Would absolutely come back. This place just has something special! ✨

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

Clean quiet and family friendly. Open areas and the river await adventure by all ages. Roving herd of sheep goats, donkey and mini horse add to the whimsy. Steve and his son Bradley are excellent hosts and I will return.

Michael

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

Beautiful setting, clean facilities with lots of access to the little Kentucky River

Irene

November 2025

1 night at Camp Escape

shelby’s camper is the perfect little getaway!! it was private and cozy and on some beautiful land. we will definitely be coming back!

Jeff

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Laurita's Casa Vieja

Lots of room for our camper right next to a creek. Saw a great horned owl my first day there. Very peaceful near multiple state parks and forests. Also near the college if wanting to visit.

The Cozy Camping Cottage has it's own yard

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

I was for years trying to sleep in a cottage like that and it finally happened. It was a pretty unique cottage, but the experience was good. Very happy with the place all around. Would recommend to others who like something different!. Great host, helpful and respectful.

Caleb

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Beautiful and peaceful location. The kids loved running around and playing on the huge field and along the riverbank. The large pavilion with electric comes in handy for blowing up mattresses and the porta-pot style toilet was the cleanest I've ever seen! This was our second time staying here and look forward to staying again.

Zach

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Love this area. We have now camped here 4 times and have not had a single complaint. The hosts are very welcoming and even take our kids for rides on their golf cart. This trip was our second annual camping trip with high school friends and bringing all of our kids together to play is awesome. Three of the campsites border a nice 2 acre or greater size yard and the kids play until they are so tired or it’s time for s’mores. We are already talking about another trip this summer.

Susan

October 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Ambers Acres

Amber is the sweetest! Nice site and area. Very understanding and professional

Cornelia

October 2025

33 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Full hook up, near Expo & Derby

10/10! I really recommend this place! I lived here for 1 month and I loved it. Trisha is very nice and the location is perfect. You got 10 minutes drive to all the stores you might need. The neighborhood is safe and quiet. There is nothing to complain about!

chris

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Valley River Camp

Very nice couple and great secluded campsite. Would go again

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was kind, helpful, and the communication was great! This was a beautiful and comfortable environment. We felt safe and welcomed here. The land is beautiful and there is plenty to explore. At night the stars really stand out, great place to sit out by the campfire. You might get so lucky to have a visit from Jersey (the neighborhood dog) who was very friendly and not at all aggressive.

Riley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We had an amazing experience staying at the cozy camping cottage at Happy Hollow Homestead! My favorite part was the tree web - there's something magical and therapeutic about being midair and surrounded by trees. We also enjoyed everything else at the homestead, from the friendly animals, the outdoor shower, to the natural surroundings. Kerry has been a fantastic host and responsive throughout booking and our stay. 10/10 would recommend!

Sam

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Laurita's Casa Vieja

Was visiting Bloomington for Father's weekend and needed a site that was convenient. While it was close to town it also felt like you well into the country. Butch is a very nice gentleman and super accommodating. This will definitely be my place to camp anytime I'm visiting the area!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Jackson-Washington State Forest

Jackson-Washington Campground

48 sites · in Jackson-Washington State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Happy Hollow Homestead

99%

(906)

27mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marengo, IN

- Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana for 7 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

Camp Escape

95%

(121)

46mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Louisville, KY

Rustic Camping Near Jefferson County Forestry & Tom Wallace Park Welcome to our 5-acre corner lot, a unique mix of rural charm and city convenience. This primitive campsite is perfect for those looking to disconnect and experience nature while still being close to modern amenities. What to Expect: 🌿 Scenic & Secluded – Our property borders Jefferson County Forestry, with an entrance just 1 mile away, offering miles of trails and outdoor adventures. We’re also near Tom Wallace Park, a great spot for hiking and fishing. 🔥 True Off-Grid Camping – This is a bring-your-own-gear site. No water, electricity, or showers—just you, your supplies, and the great outdoors. A fire pit is provided, and there’s a shared porta potty for convenience. 🚜 A Working Farm Community – Expect to see and hear a mix of country and city life. You may hear wildlife, passing trains, tractors, gunfire from Knob Creek Range, and nearby neighbors working their land. It’s all part of the experience of staying in an authentic rural setting. 🏡 Tiny Home Retreat – Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this cozy space offers a peaceful and unique retreat. 🏙️ Convenient Location – Though it feels like a getaway, we’re just 5 minutes from Kroger, Walmart, and a variety of restaurants. Downtown Louisville is a 30-minute drive, and we’re 15 minutes from Fort Knox. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-grid camping adventure close to both nature and the city, this is the spot for you! 🌲🏕️

Hones Pointe Campground

97%

(842)

41mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · Campbellsburg, KY

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout. Welcome!

Derby City Oasis

38mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Louisville, KY

Nearly three fully fenced acres of manicured turf with plenty of shade from mature trees. Enjoy a private, secure entrance with a combo lock. A 15/30A electric hookup is available near the main house, along with access to a water hose. The property includes multiple dog-agility features and obstacles for your pups to enjoy. A patio area with a fan, seating, and a fire ring is also available. Churchill Downs is only a 10-minute walk away. Multiple restaurants, a grocery store, a laundromat, and a hardware store are all less than a 5-minute walk.

Rockytop Family Farms

96%

(42)

13mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Henryville, IN

**25 Minutes north of Louisville, KY** ________________________________________ RV Site on our family land. 30 AND 50 amp electric, water, sewer. Fire-pit with seating, free firewood provided. Trash can provided. Next-door to Yankeetown Area/indoor roping arena. If you participate in the rodeo at Yankeetown, utilize our site with hookups for your horse trailer! Nearby access to the Knobstone trail access point. Just a few miles away from LM Sugarbush; Indiana's largest annual Maple Syrup Festival. Long gravel driveway; 1/4 mile or more off of State Rd 160. We border the Clark-State Forestry. We have a small farm pond that's full of fish; no license required. Bring your fishing pole and have fun! Expect to hear chickens, guineas, pigs, dogs barking, kids playing. You may hear a tractor, lawn mower, or gator ATV go by as we are always busy doing something. Your pets are welcome, but keep in mind that this property is patrolled by two large Great Pyrenees dogs, and while they are friendly to people, they are territorial and have been aggressive towards other dogs until they become friends. For the safety of all the dogs, your pets must be contained/on a leash at least until all of the dogs can get to know each other. We are 5 miles from I-65, and 19 miles north of Louisville, KY. Verizon phone/data service is good; can't confirm others.

Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%

(96)

17mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 4 sites · Lodging · Bedford, IN

Our cabins sits on 100 acres. Our cabins have AC/Heat. A dry sink are in each cabin are provided. Roast hotdogs over your private fire pit as a fire pit is just outside the cabin along with private picnic table. We have a shower bathroom house. You provide your own towel, and soap products. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under your control at all times. Privy's are found just outside the cabin. We have miles of hiking trails and several spring fed creeks so take your hiking boots off and wade in the clean cool water. Stars are in abundance at Guthrie Meadows so star gazing is a must!

Full hook up, near Expo & Derby

100%

(5)

40mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 1 site · RV · Louisville, KY

Located on private property, with a graveled, leveled and flat parking pad. Full hook-up with water, sewer, electric, trash, wifi and a firepit. Options for wood bundles, hydration/snack basket and smore kits are available. Just let us know what you need and we will do our best to make it happen! Grassy yard off the gravel pad, basketball hoop out back. This is a great location 2 miles from the airport, 1 mile from the Expo Center and 4 miles from Churchill Downs. Grocery, restaurants, liquor stores and coffee shop near by.

Persimmon Honey Hollow

93%

(23)

30mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · West Baden Springs, IN

Cozy ramshackle farmstead in the Hoosier Hills offer a chance to get up close and personal with the land, through camping, and hiking through the woods. Not only is Hoosier National Forest located both to the north and south for hiking and trail riding, but just 3 miles away is the Rise of Lost River at Orangeville, a natural landmark. Spring Mill State park is located about 20 minutes away in Mitchell, IN, while Patoka Lake is about 15 minutes south of nearby French Lick. For those interested in farmers' markets, Orange County Homegrown markets run Saturday at Orleans(10 miles away) from 8am-noon, and in French Lick 7 miles) from 4-8pm.

Buck Creek Sanctuary

94%

(57)

42mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Elizabeth, IN

Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves. “There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places” -Wendell Berry Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred. Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet. He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.

Nightfall Farm

100%

(74)

17mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Crothersville, IN

We're bringing my family farm back to life. My parents farmed here until the 1980's, but couldn't make a profit with corn and soybeans. My husband, Nate, and I moved home in 2014, and started turning the fields into pastures. Today, we run Nightfall Farm, raise animals with respect, and sell pasture-raised meat locally. Come wander the 125 acres of woods, wetlands, and farm. Check out the animals in our pastures, and walk along the Muscatatuck River. Enjoy a quiet fire. Hear the roar of frogs calling in Spring. Chase fireflies. Behold a family farm coming back to life.

Ambers Acres

100%

(22)

22mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 4 sites · RVs · Fredericksburg, IN

Hi Hipcampers! This site offers full water, sewer, and electric hookups. Want to see a working farm? Want to wake up to animals grazing? Come stay at Ambers Acres! The pasture your ssite is nestled in, has goats and possibly cows at all times! That doesn’t mean you won’t see rabbits and squirrels running around also! Keep an eye out for the occasional turkey and deer also! We are just a few miles from the Old Mill Canoe Rental on the Blue River, Buffalo Trace Park, and Cave Country Canoe rentals.

Sleeping Bear Retreat

95%

(20)

36mi from Jackson-Washington State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

The best camping in Jackson-Washington State Forest, IN guide

Overview

About

Hikers. We found the perfect spot for you. Jackson-Washington State Forest encompasses 18,000 acres of gorgeous. The sights to be seen on the trails are unmatched by neighboring parks. The hiking action is available to all levels—the rugged mountain women, the men with grizzly beards and a John-Muir-attitude, and to those simply seeking mellow hike-through forests and breathtaking views of the lake. Mountain biking and 13.9 miles of horse trails are also on the list of YES. Whichever trail you trek, be sure to remember that bright orange is the new black, for during hunting season you'll want to stand out as “human” and not “dinner.” Speaking of hunting, it's welcome with a valid permit, and an archery range within the park will test your bow skillz. Jackson-Washington hosts three picnic shelters for guests. Some are for individual groups and others can host your next blow-out celebration. It’s a holiday somewhere, right? Come for the day or crash for a few nights beneath the starlit sky. Primitive camping is available beneath eastern white pines or beside the still waters of the lake. We did the diggin’, now all you have to do is show up and wander happily.

Notable campgrounds

Knob Lake Campground: Nestled by the water, this site offers picturesque camping amid hardwoods and white pines.
Youth Tent Campground: Ideal for groups and scouts, located near the forest office and the start of Trail 3.
Backcountry Camping: For a true wilderness experience, venture along the backcountry hiking trail in Washington County.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak seasons, to secure your ideal campsite.
Weekdays often have more availability than weekends, so consider a mid-week stay.
Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred site is booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Jackson-Washington State Forest is from April to October, when all facilities are open and the weather is favorable for outdoor activities. Winter brings closures, such as Skyline Drive, making some areas less accessible.