Hoosier National Forest Campground

camping in hoosier national forest

Welcome to Hoosier National Forest Campground, also widely known as Youngs Creek Trailhead and Youngs Creek Horse Camp and Trails. For those of us in Indiana who cherish authentic outdoor experiences, this campground truly is a gem within the expansive Hoosier National Forest. We understand that sometimes, the best way to connect with nature is by embracing a simpler, more rustic approach to camping. This campground offers exactly that: a free, peaceful, and beautiful setting that feels far removed from the everyday hustle, yet is accessible for a genuine forest retreat. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the serene environment and the opportunity to truly unwind in nature.

At Hoosier National Forest Campground, our commitment is to provide a clean and unadorned space where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Indiana without unnecessary frills. We pride ourselves on offering a primitive camping experience, which means you'll find gravel parking pads, picnic tables, and clean vault toilets, but no water or electric hookups at the individual sites. This approach allows for a deeper immersion into the forest environment, perfect for those seeking solitude or a genuine rustic adventure. Whether you're pulling in with a 30ft RV, setting up a tent on a grassy site, or looking to explore the extensive horse and bike trails, this campground offers a welcoming base. Many appreciate the "very, very peaceful" atmosphere and the fact that it's "completely fee free!", making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly and authentic Indiana outdoor escape.

Hoosier National Forest Campground is located in Paoli Township, IN 47454, USA. This places it within the vast and beautiful Hoosier National Forest in Southern Indiana, offering a truly immersive natural experience.

Here are detailed directions to help you find your way:

• Go south on Indiana State Road 37.

• Turn right onto Beech Grove Road and continue for approximately 0.9 miles.

• Turn left onto County Road 50 W.

• Drive approximately 1.2 miles. The entrance to the campground will be on your left.

Accessibility to the campground involves a drive on a fairly narrow road, which is basically one lane wide, with a steep hill near the end. However, the campground itself is situated on an "upper plateau," offering a sense of seclusion once you arrive. Despite the rustic nature of the site, it is generally accessible for various vehicles, with room for about 30-40ft rigs. Being part of the Hoosier National Forest, this location is ideal for those seeking a true escape into nature, yet it remains reachable for Indiana residents looking for an authentic forest camping experience.

Hoosier National Forest Campground offers a range of services tailored to a primitive, rustic camping experience, emphasizing self-sufficiency and natural immersion.

• Primitive Campsites: The campground provides basic camping sites. These are "primitive sites" meaning they do not offer water or electric hookups at the individual sites, encouraging a more traditional outdoor experience.

• Gravel Parking Pads: Each site typically includes a "gravel parking pad," offering a designated and stable area for vehicles and campers.

• Picnic Tables: Every site is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor dining and meal preparation.

• Campfire Rings: Campfire rings are available at sites, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance.

• Clean Vault Toilets: Restroom facilities are available in the form of "vault toilets" (pit toilets). These are notably described as "Cleanest vault toilets I have seen!", ensuring a well-maintained and hygienic experience.

• Potable Water Hydrants: Water hydrants are available near the restroom and over near the road entrance. While they are "likely turned off in winter frequently (early OCT to early April)," they provide a source of potable water during open seasons.

• Designated RV and Tent Space: There is "Room for about 30-40ft rigs" with longer ones possibly near the shelter/restroom, and "plenty of nice grass sites for tents," accommodating both RV and tent campers.

• Large Open Space with Horse Tie-Offs: A significant service for equestrians is the "large open space with horse tie offs," making it suitable for horse camping.

• Picnic Shelter: A communal "picnic shelter" is available, offering a covered area for gatherings or protection from the elements.

• Access to Horse and Bike Trails: The campground serves as a trailhead, providing access to extensive "horse and bike trails" (note: trail use may involve a fee).

These services collectively support a rustic, fee-free camping experience with essential amenities and abundant access to outdoor activities.

Hoosier National Forest Campground, also known as Youngs Creek Trailhead and Youngs Creek Horse Camp and Trails, boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers seeking a rustic and peaceful outdoor experience.

• Completely Fee-Free Camping: A significant highlight is that the campground is **"completely fee free!"** This makes it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for all campers, particularly those seeking an economical outdoor adventure.

• Highly Praised Vault Toilets: Despite being a primitive campground, the "Cleanest vault toilets I have seen!" are a major and unexpected highlight. This commitment to cleanliness in a rustic setting greatly enhances the comfort level for all visitors.

• Exceptional Peace and Tranquility: The campground is described as "very, very peaceful." This emphasis on quiet solitude is a primary draw for those looking to escape noise and truly relax in nature, making it ideal for a tranquil retreat.

• Ample Space and Privacy: Sites offer "room for about 30-40ft rigs" and "plenty of nice grass sites for tents." The spaciousness ensures campers don't feel crowded, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere.

• Direct Access to Horse and Bike Trails: As "Youngs Creek Trailhead and Youngs Creek Horse Camp and Trails," the campground provides direct access to an extensive network of trails for both horseback riding and mountain biking (some trails may require a fee). This is a huge draw for active outdoor enthusiasts.

• Good Cell Service: The availability of "ATT internet is 5G and pretty good at 105DL/7UP" is a modern convenience in a rustic setting, allowing for connectivity while still enjoying the outdoors.

• Rustic and Authentic Forest Experience: The overall feel of the campground provides a "really nice for a rustic campground" experience, immersing campers in the natural beauty of the Hoosier National Forest without extensive development.

• Seasonal Water Availability: While water hydrants are available, their seasonal operation (off in winter) provides a clear expectation for campers and highlights the primitive nature of some amenities.

These features collectively establish Hoosier National Forest Campground as a highly desirable destination for those seeking an authentic, peaceful, and fee-free primitive camping experience with excellent trail access and surprisingly clean facilities.

For inquiries or information regarding Hoosier National Forest Campground (Youngs Creek Trailhead / Horse Camp), please use the general contact information for the Hoosier National Forest, as this is a public campground. While there isn't a direct campground-specific phone number provided, the main forest service office can often provide the most current information.

Address: Paoli Township, IN 47454, USA

General Contact for Hoosier National Forest: We recommend searching online for the main phone number for the Hoosier National Forest Supervisor's Office or the specific district office that manages the Youngs Creek area. As of current public information, this is generally the best way to get direct assistance regarding forest campgrounds.

Please note that primitive campgrounds often have limited direct contact options, and information is frequently managed through the larger forest service administration. We encourage checking official U.S. Forest Service websites for the most up-to-date information on operating seasons, conditions, and any potential alerts.

Hoosier National Forest Campground (Youngs Creek Trailhead / Horse Camp) is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Indiana, offering a truly authentic and accessible outdoor experience right within our beautiful state. For Hoosiers who appreciate rugged beauty and a "no frills" approach to camping, this campground is a perfect fit. Its location within the vast Hoosier National Forest means it’s relatively easy to reach from many parts of Indiana, allowing for more time enjoying nature and less time on the road. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend escape or a longer, self-sufficient adventure.

What truly makes this campground a standout for local residents is its primitive nature combined with surprising comforts. The fact that it's **"completely fee free!"** is a huge draw for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors on a budget, making it an incredibly accessible option for families and individuals alike. Despite being rustic, the "Cleanest vault toilets I have seen!" offer a level of comfort that is often unexpected in such settings, greatly enhancing the overall experience. This demonstrates a commitment to basic hygiene and maintenance that is highly appreciated by campers.

Furthermore, the "very, very peaceful" atmosphere allows Hoosiers to truly unwind and disconnect from the noise of daily life. For those seeking solitude, stargazing opportunities, or simply quiet nights under the forest canopy, this campground delivers. The ample space for both RVs and tents, combined with access to extensive "horse and bike trails," caters to a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts, encouraging active recreation within our state's natural treasures. Even the presence of decent "ATT internet is 5G" provides a practical modern convenience without detracting from the rustic feel, allowing for necessary connectivity if desired. By choosing Hoosier National Forest Campground, locals are not only embracing an authentic Indiana outdoor adventure but also supporting the continued enjoyment of our cherished public lands. It's an invaluable resource for experiencing the wilder side of our state, close to home and without the typical costs.

Hoosier National Forest Campground

Paoli Township, IN 47454, USA