Hawthorn Park Campground- Vigo County Parks

For Indiana residents seeking a convenient and amenity-rich outdoor escape, Hawthorn Park Campground, managed by Vigo County Parks, presents an inviting option right here in Terre Haute. Nestled within the larger Hawthorn Park, this campground offers a blend of tranquil nature and easy access to urban conveniences, making it an ideal destination for various types of campers. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast looking for full hookups or a primitive camper seeking a back-to-basics experience, Hawthorn Park aims to provide a comfortable and engaging setting for your next adventure. It's a place where you can unwind by a campfire, explore scenic trails, or cast a line into a well-stocked lake, all within a short drive from home.

This article is crafted to give local Hoosiers a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Hawthorn Park Campground. We'll delve into its precise location and accessibility, detail the services and features it provides, and highlight why it stands out as a suitable choice for community members. Our aim is to offer factual information, drawing from public data provided by Vigo County Parks and real customer experiences, to help you plan your visit. While the tone will be friendly and professional, with a touch of promotion to underscore its benefits, rest assured that all details are based on available public information, ensuring accuracy and transparency for your camping plans.

Hawthorn Park, as a whole, is a significant recreational asset for Vigo County, attracting a diverse range of visitors beyond just campers, including fishermen, runners, and various groups. The campground itself benefits greatly from being part of this larger park system, granting campers immediate access to a wide array of activities and natural beauty. It represents the Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department's commitment to providing well-maintained outdoor spaces for its community. While any public campground can occasionally experience unforeseen issues, the overall sentiment points to a well-managed facility offering valuable opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Let's explore what makes Hawthorn Park Campground a compelling choice for your next Indiana camping trip.

Hawthorn Park Campground is located within Hawthorn Park, with its address noted as Unnamed Road, Terre Haute, IN 47803, USA. More specifically, the park's physical address is 6067 E Old Maple Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47803. This strategic location offers a significant advantage for Indiana residents, providing a peaceful natural setting that remains incredibly accessible from major transportation routes and urban centers.

The park is situated approximately six-tenths of a mile north of U.S. 40, easily accessed off Hunt Road. For those traveling on Interstate 70 (I-70), the campground is conveniently located just 10-15 minutes away, minimizing travel time and making it an ideal spot for an overnight stop or a weekend getaway for those passing through or living nearby. This proximity to a major interstate ensures smooth arrivals and departures for campers with RVs and trailers.

Being part of Terre Haute, residents have the benefit of being close to a wide array of urban amenities. Within a 10-15 minute drive from the campground, campers can find various stores for groceries and camping supplies, a diverse selection of restaurants for dining out, and numerous gas stations. This convenience means campers don't need to over-pack or worry about being completely isolated from essential services, offering a comfortable blend of nature and modern accessibility.

The park borders Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the Heritage Road National Trail to the south, indicating a well-integrated location within the local landscape. While some ambient noise from I-70 might be faintly audible, reviews suggest it's generally "not a bother," allowing campers to still enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The roads leading to and within the park are typically well-maintained, ensuring easy navigation for vehicles of all sizes. The combination of a natural environment and close proximity to necessary amenities makes Hawthorn Park Campground a highly convenient and desirable location for Indiana locals looking for an outdoor experience.

Hawthorn Park Campground, as a facility managed by Vigo County Parks, provides a comprehensive set of services aimed at enhancing the camping experience for its visitors. These services cater to a range of camping preferences, from those needing modern conveniences to those preferring a more rustic approach.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers approximately 70 modern sites equipped with electric hookups, and some of these also include water hookups for added convenience. Additionally, there are about 15 primitive sites available for tent campers or those seeking a more traditional outdoor experience without electrical connections. Sites are generally flat, with graveled pads, and include a picnic table and fire pit.

• Modern Shower Houses and Restrooms: A significant highlight consistently praised by campers is the availability of "modern shower house" facilities. These are noted for being clean and well-maintained, providing campers with access to hot water and comfortable, spacious facilities for personal hygiene. Restrooms are also available throughout the campground.

• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is available within the campground, allowing for easy wastewater disposal before departure, ensuring a clean and responsible camping practice.

• Online Reservation System: Vigo County Parks offers an online reservation system for booking campsites at Hawthorn Park. This allows campers to conveniently select and secure their preferred site type (electric, electric with water, or primitive) in advance, streamlining the check-in process.

• Lake Access and Boating Facilities: The campground is part of Hawthorn Park, which features Burns Lake (18.3 acres). The park provides a boat launch and fishing dock, offering access for boating with trolling motors. While specific boat rentals might be at other Vigo County parks (like Fowler Park), direct access to the lake for personal small boats is a key service.

• Fishing Opportunities: Burns Lake is stocked with various fish species, attracting fishermen. This provides a readily available recreational activity for campers of all ages, right within the park premises.

• Accessibility Features: The park includes an accessible trail stretching 1,850 feet, with a wildlife observation shelter overlooking the J.I. Case Wetland Wildlife Refuge. This indicates a commitment to making parts of the park accessible to visitors with varying mobility needs.

• Dedicated Park Staff/Management: The campground operates under the oversight of Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department, ensuring professional management and maintenance of the facilities. While specific "camp hosts" are not explicitly mentioned in all available information, the overall management of the park facilities suggests active oversight.

These services collectively contribute to Hawthorn Park Campground being a well-equipped and user-friendly destination for campers in the Indiana region.

Hawthorn Park Campground offers a range of features and highlights that enhance the camping experience and make it a notable destination for Indiana locals:

• Expansive Park Setting with Diverse Attractions: The campground is embedded within the larger Hawthorn Park, which spans 256.72 acres. This provides campers with immediate access to a wealth of activities beyond just their campsite. Features within the park include a lake (Burns Lake), picnic shelters, playgrounds, an archery range, and various trails.

• Lake Activities (Burns Lake): Burns Lake, an 18.3-acre body of water, is a central feature. It includes a boat launch and fishing dock, and is regularly stocked with various fish species like Largemouth Bass, Warmouth, and Bluegill. This makes it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts and those who enjoy non-motorized boating (trolling motors allowed), adding a significant recreational dimension to a stay.

• Extensive Trail System: Hawthorn Park offers miles of trails for walking, jogging, and exploring. These include the Lake Loop, J.I. Case Loop, Observation Loop, South Loop, and Head Trails. An accessible trail stretching 1,850 feet also features a wildlife observation shelter overlooking the J.I. Case Wetland Wildlife Refuge, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

• Modern and Clean Facilities: A consistent highlight in reviews is the cleanliness and quality of the modern shower houses and restrooms. Campers appreciate the availability of hot water and the well-maintained nature of these essential facilities, significantly enhancing comfort, especially for those in primitive sites or smaller RVs.

• Strategic and Convenient Location: Its proximity to I-70 and the city of Terre Haute (about 10-15 minutes away) means campers have quick access to gas stations, restaurants, and stores. This balance of a natural setting with urban convenience is a major draw, especially for overnight stays or those needing supplies.

• Variety of Campsite Types: With a mix of about 70 modern sites (electric, some with water) and 15 primitive sites, the campground caters to different camping styles and budgets. The sites are generally flat with graveled pads, picnic tables, and fire pits, offering a comfortable base regardless of the setup.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of playgrounds within the park ensures that families with children have ample opportunities for recreation and fun. The overall park environment is designed to be welcoming for visitors of all ages.

• Managed by Vigo County Parks: Being part of the Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department system indicates a level of professional management and commitment to public service. This often translates to well-maintained facilities and a structured approach to park operations, including a clear season of operation (typically May 1st to October 15th).

These features collectively make Hawthorn Park Campground a robust and appealing destination for Indiana residents seeking accessible and engaging outdoor experiences.

As a public campground managed by Vigo County Parks and Recreation Department, Hawthorn Park Campground typically operates with standardized rates rather than commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. However, there are inherent advantages and booking features that can be seen as beneficial for Indiana locals:

• Affordable Rates: Camping at Vigo County Parks, including Hawthorn Park, is generally a very affordable outdoor recreation option. Current rates typically range from approximately $17 for a primitive site to $22 for an electric site, and $27 for an electric and direct water site per night. These rates are quite competitive, making it a budget-friendly choice for individuals and families.

• Online Reservation System: The park utilizes an online reservation system, which is a significant convenience. While not a direct "promotion," it allows campers to secure their preferred site type and specific site number up to three months in advance. This avoids the uncertainty of first-come, first-served camping and helps in planning trips efficiently.

• Optional Site Lock Fee: For an additional $5, campers have the option to "lock" their specific desired campsite. This ensures that the exact site chosen during reservation is guaranteed, which can be seen as a valuable benefit, especially for those with specific setup needs or preferences for location within the campground.

• Inclusive Amenities: The base camping fee includes access to essential amenities like modern shower houses, restrooms, and a dump station for RVs. Additionally, campers have full access to all the wider Hawthorn Park facilities, including fishing (license required per Indiana state law, but often easily obtainable if not already held), trails, playgrounds, and the lake. These inclusions provide excellent value for the nightly rate.

• No Long-Term Discounts (Current Policy): It's important for campers to note that, as of recent policy updates, Vigo County Parks no longer offers weekly or two-week discounted rates. All bookings are at a flat daily rate based on the site type. While this might be a change from previous years, the daily rates remain affordable.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on current pricing, availability, and specific booking procedures, it is always best for prospective campers to visit the official Vigo County Parks and Recreation website for their camping section or contact Hawthorn Park directly. While traditional sales may not be present, the inherent value of a well-maintained, amenity-rich, and conveniently located campground at competitive prices is a significant ongoing "offer" for Indiana residents.

For Indiana residents planning a visit or seeking more information about Hawthorn Park Campground - Vigo County Parks, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: The general park address, which covers the campground within it, is 6067 E Old Maple Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47803, USA.

• Phone: (812) 462-3225

• Mobile Phone: +1 812-462-3225 (This is typically the same main line for the park, offering convenience).

When contacting the park, it's advisable to clearly state that your inquiry is specifically about the "campground" at Hawthorn Park to ensure you are directed to the most appropriate staff member.

Additional resources for prospective campers include:

• Official Vigo County Parks and Recreation Website: This website is the primary resource for detailed information on camping policies, rates, park maps, and the online reservation system. It will typically have a dedicated section for camping at Hawthorn Park.

• Online Reservation System: The Vigo County Parks website will also link directly to their online booking portal, which is the recommended method for making reservations and checking real-time availability for campsites.

It is important to note the campground's operating season, which is typically from May 1st to October 15th, closing for the season around mid-October. Planning your visit within these operational dates and making reservations in advance, especially for weekends or peak times, is highly recommended to ensure campsite availability.

Hawthorn Park Campground, a proud part of the Vigo County Parks system, stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended outdoor destination for Indiana residents. Its unique combination of accessibility, diverse amenities, and a commitment to providing a quality experience makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of local campers, from families to solo adventurers.

Firstly, its strategic location in Terre Haute is a significant advantage for Hoosiers. Being just 10-15 minutes off I-70 means that residents from across central and western Indiana can easily reach the campground without lengthy travel. This convenience is crucial for maximizing leisure time, allowing for more spontaneous weekend trips or comfortable overnight stays during longer journeys. The close proximity to Terre Haute also means immediate access to essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants, providing the comfort of nearby urban amenities while still enjoying a natural setting. This balance makes it highly practical for those who prefer not to completely disconnect from modern conveniences.

Secondly, the campground's suitability stems from its well-maintained facilities and comprehensive offerings. The availability of both modern sites with electric (and some with water) hookups and primitive tent sites caters to diverse camping preferences and budgets. The consistently praised "modern shower house" facilities, known for their cleanliness and hot water, significantly enhance the comfort level, particularly for tent campers. This attention to basic yet crucial amenities demonstrates the Vigo County Parks' dedication to a positive visitor experience. While one review did mention an isolated incident of noise from other campers, the overall structure and management aim to provide a peaceful environment, and such instances are not reflective of the typical experience.

Beyond the campsites themselves, the broader Hawthorn Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities that are invaluable for local families and individuals. Burns Lake provides excellent fishing, and boat launches are available for those with small boats, adding a significant recreational draw. The extensive network of trails is perfect for hiking, walking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the park, including wetland wildlife viewing. The presence of playgrounds makes it an ideal spot for families with children, ensuring there are activities to keep everyone engaged. The management by Vigo County Parks and Recreation means a professional approach to park operation and maintenance, offering a sense of reliability and trust for local users.

In conclusion, Hawthorn Park Campground offers Indiana residents an accessible, affordable, and amenity-rich outdoor experience. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, individuals can find tranquility, and outdoor enthusiasts can pursue their passions, all within the familiar and convenient embrace of their home state. It truly serves as a valuable local resource for escaping into nature and enjoying the best of Indiana's outdoors.