Charlestown State Park
00 review3000 State Park Drive Charlestown, IN, CHARLESTOWN, Indiana, 47111, United States
Charlestown State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$35.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $25 to $35, depending on the site features. Premium AA sites (water, sewer, and electricity) are likely at the higher end of the fee spectrum, while Class A sites (electricity only) are at the lower end.
About this campground
Sprawling across 5,100 dramatic acres of southern Indiana wilderness, Charlestown State Park stands as the state's third-largest outdoor playground. Here, adventurous souls discover a landscape carved by time itself—rugged hills plunge into deep ravines, mysterious karst formations dot the terrain, and hidden among the forest canopy lie the haunting remnants of a Jazz Age amusement park. Modern comfort stations ensure today's explorers can rough it in style, while the expansive boat ramp opens your gateway to the mighty Ohio River's endless possibilities.
Charlestown State Park features AA sites (water, sewer, and electricity), Class A sites (electricity only), and improved camping sites. Primitive camping is available greater than 10 miles away, as noted in the external sources.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the fascinating layers of Charlestown's past. Wander through the atmospheric ruins of a 1920s amusement park, where laughter once echoed through these hills during the Roaring Twenties. The land later served a vital role in American history as part of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant, adding another chapter to this storied landscape that continues to captivate visitors with its rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Indiana's seasons at Charlestown, where crisp winter mornings occasionally dust the ravines with snow, creating a serene wonderland for hardy campers. As spring emerges, the park bursts to life with wildflowers and perfect temperatures. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for river adventures, though savvy visitors know the magic happens during those golden weeks of spring and fall when moderate temperatures and clear skies create absolutely perfect camping conditions.
ElevationPrepare for breathtaking moments as you navigate elevation changes exceeding 200 feet throughout the park. These dramatic shifts in terrain reward hikers and explorers with stunning panoramic vistas that stretch across the verdant valleys below, offering photography opportunities and scenic overlooks that will leave you reaching for your camera at every turn.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted a masterpiece at Charlestown, where rugged hills cascade into shadowy ravines and the earth itself tells ancient stories through its karst topography. Massive sinkholes pepper the landscape, creating an almost otherworldly terrain that geology enthusiasts will find endlessly fascinating. The crown jewel views encompass the winding Fourteen Mile Creek valley below, where morning mists often create ethereal scenes worthy of a landscape painting.
Geological RegionPerched along the legendary Ohio River in southern Indiana, Charlestown State Park showcases the region's most dramatic geological features. The landscape reads like a textbook of natural history—ancient karst formations have created a wonderland of sinkholes and caves, while erosion has carved deep ravines between towering hills. From numerous vantage points, visitors can gaze across the serpentine Fourteen Mile Creek valley and catch glimpses of the Ohio River, that great watery highway that has shaped the destiny of the American heartland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails on accessibility options for campers with disabilities are absent from the provided information.
Sites SizeThe authoritative sources do not provide specific details about campsite sizes.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels for campsites are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific recommendations are provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are listed.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Unknown
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unknown
Groups
Details on group camping options or capacities are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutUnknown
Open and Closed SeasonUnknown
Reservation PlatformsNo platform details included.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnknown
Cancellation PolicyNo specific details provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Charlestown State Park offers diverse recreational activities including hiking, bird watching, and historical exploration of the abandoned Rose Island amusement park. Visitors can engage in boating, stargazing, picnicking, and photography. Interpretive trails and wildlife viewing opportunities are notable features of this park.
Hiking
Official sources note over 15 miles of trails ranging from easy to rugged. Trails provide opportunities to view wildflowers, fossil outcroppings, and karst topography, including large sinkholes. User reviews also praise the diversity and scenic nature of the hiking options.Fishing
Fishing is available at the park, likely near the Ohio River, although specific details about types of fish or fishing quality are not provided.Boating
A large boat ramp provides access to the Ohio River, making boating activities easily accessible.Wildlife viewing
Bird watchers can enjoy sightings of over 70 species, including bluebirds, black vultures, and occasional bald eagles. Wildlife platforms for viewing are available within the park.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive services and trails are available within the park, offering insights into the area's natural and cultural history, including remnants of the 1920s-era amusement park.Winter Activities
Winter activities specific to the park are not mentioned in the authoritative sources.Water Sports
Water skiing is listed as an available activity within the park.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No information provided.
- Quiet hours are Unknown
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rugged terrain and wildlife characteristic of the region.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available within 10 miles, including medical clinics, hospitals, and first aid supplies.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific dates provided.
Trash and recyclingA recycling station is located within 10 miles of the park, but on-site trash facilities are not specifically referenced.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Ohio River and Fourteen Mile Creek.
Common complaintsSome user reviews suggest the park is underutilized.
Campground Map
3000 State Park Drive Charlestown, IN, CHARLESTOWN, Indiana, 47111, United States
Driving directionsFollow I-65 to I-265E to IN-62 E/E 10th St/Ohio River Scenic Byway in Jeffersonville. Take exit 10 from IN-265 E to access IN-62 E.At the traffic circle, take the exit onto IN-62 E/E 10th St/Ohio River Scenic Byway.Continue to follow IN-62 E/Ohio River Scenic Byway for roughly 8 miles.Destination will be on the right.
The campground is located 8 miles east of I-65, on State Road 62, making it highly accessible. Roads appear paved and suitable for all vehicles.Nearby places
Falls of the Ohio State Park – 15 miles
Clifty Falls State Park - 32 miles
Hardy Lake - 30 miles
Deam Lake - 25 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as fuel, firewood, ice, and camping essentials are available less than 1 mile away. Additional retail and grocery options are within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Charlestown State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's peaceful and well-maintained atmosphere, with notable praise for its hiking trails and historical attractions, including the abandoned Rose Island theme park. However, some users feel the park is underutilized.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Very nice and well taken care of." "Diverse and scenic hiking trails." "Quiet and peaceful."
Common Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend exploring hiking trails and the Rose Island historical site. Boating and fishing activities are also suggested by reviewers.
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are highlighted in the reviews.
Camper Quotes
"Really nice state park for camping, hiking, and local historical Rose Island Abandoned Theme Park." - Michael Pearson, 2023. "Camp, boat, fish or hiking. Very quiet and peaceful." - stubby lee, 2022.
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews mention specific campsites or areas within the campground.
Accessibility Features
No reviews provide insights into accessibility experiences.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews discuss pet-related policies or experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025