O'Bannon State Park Campground

Are you looking for a fantastic outdoor escape right here in Indiana? Look no further than O'Bannon State Park Campground, nestled in the scenic landscapes of southern Indiana. This remarkable destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and comfortable camping facilities, making it an ideal choice for individuals, couples, and families seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat close to home.

O'Bannon State Park Campground is a true gem within the Indiana State Parks system. Encompassing a vast area of over 2,000 acres, it's a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From the moment you arrive, you'll be immersed in the tranquility of the Hoosier National Forest, which surrounds the park, offering a sense of seclusion and connection with the natural world. This campground provides an accessible and enriching experience, proving that you don't need to travel far to find a memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor lifestyle, O'Bannon State Park Campground offers something for everyone, providing well-maintained sites and a plethora of activities to fill your days.

Located at 5PW5+9R, Leavenworth, IN 47112, USA, O'Bannon State Park Campground is easily accessible for residents across Indiana and beyond. Its strategic position in southern Indiana places it within a convenient driving distance from major population centers, making it a viable option for weekend getaways or longer vacations without extensive travel. The park is situated near State Road 62 and State Road 462, with clear signage guiding you to the entrance. While offering a sense of being "away from it all," the campground remains well-connected to nearby towns like Corydon, which provides essential services, grocery stores, and local attractions. This balance of natural seclusion and practical accessibility is a significant advantage for local users, allowing for spontaneous trips or well-planned adventures with ease. Reviewers often mention its quiet setting despite being a popular destination, highlighting the effective layout that allows for a serene experience.

The campground and surrounding O'Bannon Woods State Park are renowned for their diverse offerings, catering to a wide range of interests and camping styles.

• Campsites: O'Bannon State Park Campground boasts a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. There are numerous electric campsites (281 electric sites), providing modern conveniences for RVs and trailers. For those seeking a more traditional experience, non-electric sites are also available. Additionally, the park features specialized electric and non-electric equestrian campsites (47 horseman sites), accommodating visitors who wish to explore the extensive horse trails. Primitive and youth camping options are also offered at the Stagestop Campground.

• Comfort Stations and Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained comfort stations with restrooms and showers are readily available throughout the campground, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Reviewers frequently praise the cleanliness of these facilities, which is a significant factor in a positive camping experience.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RV and trailer users, making it easy to manage waste during your stay.

• Family Aquatic Center: During the warmer months (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day), the park's Family Aquatic Center is a major draw. It features a zero-depth splash pad and a leisure pool, offering a refreshing way to cool off and have fun. While the slide tower was removed due to structural issues, the remaining aquatic features still provide plenty of enjoyment for all ages.

• Nature Center/Interpretive Naturalist Services: The Hickory Hollow Nature Center provides educational resources, cultural displays, and live animal exhibits. Interpretive naturalists offer daily programs, allowing visitors to learn more about the local flora, fauna, and the park's rich history.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, perfect for day trips or outdoor meals. Reservable picnic shelters are also available for larger gatherings.

• Fire Rings and Grills: Most campsites are equipped with fire rings and grills, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying campfire stories. Firewood is often available for purchase.

O'Bannon State Park Campground stands out with several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for an Indiana getaway:

• Wyandotte Caves: Operated by O'Bannon Woods State Park, the Wyandotte Caves are a major attraction. These impressive underground caverns offer guided tours, allowing visitors to explore fascinating geological formations and learn about their historical significance, including evidence of flint mining by Native Americans dating back thousands of years. Big Wyandotte Cave and Little Wyandotte Cave offer different tour experiences.

• Blue River: Indiana's first natural and scenic river, the Blue River, flows through the state park and forest. This picturesque river is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, offering opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill (with a valid Indiana state fishing license). Canoe access ramps are available at Stagestop Campground.

• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts an impressive network of over 200 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. These trails wind through diverse landscapes, offering varying levels of difficulty, from easy walks to more challenging routes like the 25.5-mile Adventure Trail. This extensive system ensures that all levels of outdoor enthusiasts can find a suitable path.

• Pioneer Farmstead and Historic Haypress: Step back in time at the restored 1850s Pioneer Farmstead and a working haypress barn. The haypress, an Indiana invention, offers a glimpse into agricultural practices of the mid-19th century, with demonstrations often available. This living history aspect adds a unique educational and cultural dimension to your visit.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitats within the park and surrounding forest provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including birdwatching. The nature center even has facilities for bird viewing.

• Proximity to Ohio River: While not directly on the Ohio River with direct access, the park borders it and offers scenic overlooks, providing stunning vistas of this historic waterway.

While specific, ongoing promotions for O'Bannon State Park Campground might vary seasonally, Indiana State Parks generally offer various discounts and special offers for their facilities. It is always recommended to check the official Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website or contact the park directly for the most current information on promotions. Common discounts can include:

• Indiana State Park Annual Passes: For frequent visitors, purchasing an annual state park permit can provide significant savings on entrance fees. These passes offer unlimited access to all Indiana State Parks for a full year.

• Senior and Veteran Discounts: Specific discounts may be available for senior citizens and veterans, often requiring proof of eligibility. These discounts can apply to camping fees or entrance fees.

• Off-Season Rates: During the cooler months, outside of peak season, camping rates might be reduced, offering a more budget-friendly option for those who enjoy camping in quieter periods.

• Package Deals: Occasionally, the park or nearby accommodations may offer package deals that combine camping with other attractions or activities in the area. Keeping an eye on tourism websites for southern Indiana or the Corydon area can sometimes reveal such opportunities.

For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about O'Bannon State Park Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 5PW5+9R, Leavenworth, IN 47112, USA

For O'Bannon Woods State Park (which includes the campground):

Address: 7234 Old Forest Road SW, Corydon, IN 47112

Phone: 812-738-8232 (Park Office)

Reservations: 866-622-6746 (Indiana State Parks central reservation line)

Email: You can often find a general email contact form or address on the official Indiana DNR website for state parks.

O'Bannon State Park Campground is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Indiana for numerous reasons. Firstly, its convenient location in southern Indiana makes it an easily accessible retreat without requiring extensive travel. For Hoosiers looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, the short drive means more time enjoying the outdoors and less time on the road. The park offers a diverse range of activities, from the exhilarating experience of exploring Wyandotte Caves to the serene pleasure of canoeing on the Blue River or hiking through miles of scenic trails. This variety ensures that every member of the family, from avid adventurers to those seeking peaceful relaxation, will find something to love.

Furthermore, the campground provides modern amenities while still preserving the natural charm of the wilderness. Clean facilities, electric hookups, and organized campsites make for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, even for those new to outdoor living. The positive customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and the shaded, well-spaced campsites, indicating a high level of satisfaction among visitors. The presence of the Nature Center and the historical farmstead adds an educational element, making it a place where families can learn and grow together. By offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient facilities right in our own backyard, O'Bannon State Park Campground stands as an ideal destination for Indiana residents seeking to connect with nature and create lasting memories. It's more than just a place to camp; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure and family-friendly exploration, proving that Indiana truly offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.