The best camping in Patoka Lake, IN

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Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake. 

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Patoka Lake adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Patoka Lake

Patoka Lake Campground

1. Patoka Lake Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Patoka Lake · 445 sites · Tents, RVs
Ever wanted to check out the natural habitat of a bald eagle or freshwater jellyfish? Pakota Lake plays home to some amazing wildlife, including osprey and river otters to boot
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Electrical hookup
Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Patoka Lake

Hill Springs Campground

1. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(81)
6.2mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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. 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
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Nighthawk Forest

2. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(20)
7.1mi from Patoka Lake · 2 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.
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Sleeping Bear Retreat

3. Sleeping Bear Retreat

95%
(22)
7.1mi from Patoka Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Little Blue Horse Camp

4. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%
(57)
14mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site
Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.
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Happy Hollow Homestead

5. Happy Hollow Homestead

99%
(970)
15mi from Patoka Lake · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
- 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
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Brambleberry Permaculture Farm

6. Brambleberry Permaculture Farm

100%
(17)
16mi from Patoka Lake · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Espri and Darren began Brambleberry Permaculture Farm in the fall of 2003 in the beautiful hills of southern Indiana. We are primarily a plant nursery, but also offer permaculture landscaping and farm consultations. We usually have cows, chickens and rabbits, but are currently taking a break from cattle to build better fences lol. We occasionally have peacocks, ducks, pigs or other livestock as well.
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Old Camp At Bear Hollow

7. Old Camp At Bear Hollow

100%
(13)
16mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site
This electric campsite is near Hoosier National Forest. This area was established as hunting grounds by our family over 30 years ago and still is to this day. Create your own family tradition in this campsite that is ready for two campers on a total of 160ft gravel space. There is both 30 and 50 AMP electric, however no water or sewer hookup. You must provide your own water. There is a dump station 5 miles from the campsite at Tipsaw Recreation Area. This area is great for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and ATV riding....or just relaxing and taking in nature in this beautiful and peaceful area. *30 & 50 AMP Electric *Shade trees *Picnic table *Firepit & Firewood *NO water hookup *NO sewer hookup
Electrical hookup
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Persimmon Honey Hollow

8. Persimmon Honey Hollow

95%
(29)
16mi from Patoka Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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. The pet goats wander freely, and the wild turkeys do the same. 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.
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Potable water
Hohl Farms

9. Hohl Farms

100%
(14)
22mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Row crop and livestock farm located in the hills of southern Indiana. The farm is 5 minutes from Interstate 64. 30 amp and 50 amp hookups available. Pasture pork and Angus cattle are next to the campsite. Located on a rural country road by crop fields, woods and pasture. Large accommodations are available as the crops are harvested and fields are barren.
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MoonLight Grove Farm

10. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(130)
22mi from Patoka Lake · 2 sites
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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Ambers Acres

11. Ambers Acres

96%
(25)
23mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site
Hi Hipcampers! This two camper 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.
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Full hookups
Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

12. Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%
(110)
29mi from Patoka Lake · 4 sites
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!
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Buck Creek Sanctuary

13. Buck Creek Sanctuary

95%
(75)
38mi from Patoka Lake · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Tar Springs 2

14. Tar Springs 2

99%
(61)
43mi from Patoka Lake · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Historic property was once a health resort in the 1840's. 3 Lodging rooms are available. Men’s and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, on a private 18 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley. Swimming, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. NO ROCK CLIMBING. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety and ours, no arrivals after dark.
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Rockytop Family Farms

15. Rockytop Family Farms

97%
(52)
43mi from Patoka Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
**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.
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Lake View camping

16. Lake View camping

98%
(120)
45mi from Patoka Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Festival Ready: Camp Escape

17. Festival Ready: Camp Escape

96%
(200)
48mi from Patoka Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Secluded Camping & Tiny Home Retreat Near Jefferson Memorial Forest 🌲 Two ways to stay, one unforgettable escape. Choose from four private primitive campsites on 5 gated acres bordering Jefferson Memorial Forest, or our cozy Glam Camp tiny home on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. 🏕️ The campsites Cypress, Sycamore, Black Walnut, and Willow: four secluded creekside sites, each spaced out so you feel like you have the woods to yourself. Tents, car camping, and RVs welcome. Generators allowed. 🔥 Primitive camping True off-grid camping: no water, electricity, or showers. Bring your gear and your sense of adventure. We provide a fire pit, a clean porta potty, and a self-service firewood shed on site. 🏡 The Glam Camp tiny home Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Inside: mini split heating and cooling ❄️, fully equipped kitchen, cozy colorful touches, high-speed Wi-Fi 📶, and upgraded windows. Outside: patio with cozy seating, outdoor gas fire, and a cute bar table. Pet friendly 🐾. Stargaze ✨, play outdoor games, or just breathe in the fresh air. 🌾 The setting A working rural community. You will hear wildlife 🦌, passing trains 🚂, tractors, and occasional distant sounds from Knob Creek Range. It is an authentic slice of Kentucky country life, and our guests tell us it is part of the charm. 📍 Location Secluded but never stranded: 5 min to Kroger, Walmart, and restaurants 🛒. 5 min to Planet Fitness for a hot shower 🚿. 2 min to gas ⛽. 30 min to downtown Louisville, 15 min to Fort Knox. Tom Wallace Park nearby for hiking and fishing, with forest trails 1 mile from our entrance. 🔒 Gated entrance for privacy and peace of mind. Campsites: check in after 4 PM, out by 11 AM. Come unplug. The trees are waiting 🌲✨
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Derby City Oasis

18. Derby City Oasis

95%
(30)
48mi from Patoka Lake · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our private, tree-lined 16-site Hipcamp property in a quiet, high-privacy setting for an urban area. All 16 campsites are flat/level and welcome every style of camping—tents, cars, trucks, small trailers, and more. Large RVs are best suited for Sites 1–6 and 13–16. **Shared facilities available May 1st – November 1st:** - One porta-potty - One or two hasty outdoor showers Water fill and trash service at the house - Wi-Fi available only at Sites 1–6 The property features a mix of shaded wooded spots, open field camping, and sunny dog-park-adjacent sites. Be considerate of fellow campers, especially in the off-leash dog park area. Nearly three fully fenced acres of manicured turf with plenty of shade from mature trees. Enjoy a private, secure entrance with a combo lock for sites 13-16. 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 and a couple of shady seating areas for the humans too. A shared patio area with a fan, seating, and a fire ring is also available. (fire rings at most campsites also) 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. Drone video of property https://youtu.be/oo6OIdccrZY?si=VptnAiSTWWpMgbTF Other platforms George's Private Dog Park In Louisville https://www.sniffspot.com/to/ub0k6 *Please note*: This is a secure urban Hipcamp extremely close to Churchill Downs, University of Louisville, and the Kentucky State Fairgrounds. The majority of the property is fenced with six-foot commercial chain-link topped with barbed wire along the tree line. Access is through an electric gate secured at night, and the property owner (a law enforcement officer) lives on-site. Once you pull onto the property, it feels extremely private — most guests say their opinion changes completely. Check the drone video for a full view. If you arrive and still feel uncomfortable after speaking with the owner, you’ll get a full refund, no questions asked.
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Silver Heights Camp and Retreat

19. Silver Heights Camp and Retreat

100%
(23)
44mi from Patoka Lake
Learn more about this land:Longest running camp in Indiana (1888). Tucked away in the Silver Hills of southern Indiana, Silver Heights can provide a wide variety of accommodations such as 5 cabins, 1 dormitory, open air tabernacle, tent camping and conference space with a full kitchen.
Painter Creek Camp Resort

20. Painter Creek Camp Resort

81%
(8)
3.7mi from Patoka Lake · 2 sites
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!
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Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Patoka Lake camping 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.

Reviews for Patoka Lake Campgrounds

100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews
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