The best camping in Patoka Lake, IN

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Top-rated campgrounds

Camp Escape

95%
(121)
47mi from Patoka Lake · 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! 🌲🏕️
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night

Happy Hollow Homestead

99%
(906)
16mi from Patoka Lake · 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Rockytop Family Farms

96%
(42)
44mi from Patoka Lake · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night

Other options near Patoka Lake

The best camping in Patoka Lake, IN guide

Overview

About

Find tons of outdoor activities at this lake thanks to 8,800 acres of water and 26,000 acres total. Marinas, resort areas, and small towns near the lake offer modern amenities.

Catch several types of fish here. The state stocks this lake with plenty of bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, redear, and walleye. Check out the annual GarDaze festival, when fishing celebrities come out and fish the lake.

Put your boat in at one of 10 boat ramps. Then, head out for some water skiing, fishing, or just a leisurely day on the lake. Dock your boat for the night at one of the marinas.

Trek along the many hiking and biking trails near the lake. The main trail is 6.5 miles, and it features Totem Rock. Native Americans and early European settlers used the rock as a shelter for hundreds of years. A dedicated cross country skiing course is open when it snows.

Reserve one of 500 campsites scattered about the lake. There are 455 campsites with electric and 45 rustic sites.

Notable campgrounds

  • Electric Sites - With 455 sites available, these electric campsites offer convenience for RVs and tents amid the park's natural beauty.
  • Primitive Sites - For a more secluded adventure, the 45 primitive sites provide a serene camping experience under the stars.
  • Dumping Station - An essential facility for campers, ensuring a comfortable and environmentally friendly stay.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your preferred spot, as sites fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Patoka Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be cold, with some activities like swimming not available.

Know before you go

  • Check for any alerts on blue-green algae and adhere to water safety guidelines.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with plans for a new raptor center to enhance educational experiences.
  • Remember to shower after swimming in the lake to ensure your safety.
  • Take advantage of the interpretive programs to enrich your visit with local wildlife and cultural insights.
  • Always stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure your own safety.
100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews