Indian Celina Lake
4.5467 reviewsIndian-Celina Lake Recreation Area, 20230 St Croix Pl, Bristow, IN 47515
Indian Celina Lake
$21.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard electric sites cost between $28 and $44 per night; non-electric sites between $21 and $41 per night. Additional $8 charge per day for second...
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Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$65.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider812-843-4880
About this campground
Nestled between two pristine lakes, Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront camping and adventure. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring wooded trails, or stepping back in time at historic sites, this peaceful retreat offers endless ways to connect with nature and Indiana's rich heritage.
The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with utility hookups available for RVs. Sites are divided into two loops, offering a mix of standard electric, standard nonelectric, and tent-only nonelectric options.
Historical SignificanceStep through time at the beautifully preserved Rickenbaugh House, an 1874 landmark that opens its doors for periodic tours, revealing stories of Indiana's pioneering past. The adjacent historic cemetery adds another layer of cultural intrigue, making this campground a favorite among history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Weather and SeasonsCamping season brings comfortable, mild temperatures that make every outdoor activity enjoyable. While gentle rains occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest, visitors often find themselves blessed with stretches of crystal-clear days perfect for lakeside relaxation and exploration.
ElevationSet among the rolling hills and forests characteristic of southern Indiana's landscape, the campground offers varied terrain that adds character to every campsite and hiking trail, creating natural privacy and scenic vantage points throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering hardwoods and whispering pines embraces the campground, creating a natural sanctuary where wildlife thrives. The forest opens dramatically to reveal two sparkling gems - the 152-acre Indian Lake and 164-acre Celina Lake - where morning mist dances across the water and evening brings a symphony of nature's sounds.
Geological RegionThis south-central Indiana treasure showcases the region's signature landscape of dense hardwood and pine forests, dramatically punctuated by the twin jewels of Indian Lake's 152 acres and Celina Lake's expansive 164 acres, creating a diverse ecosystem that captures the essence of Indiana's natural beauty.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets, drinking water, and showers are provided. A fishing pier on Celina Lake is also described as accessible.
Sites SizeSpacious sites with large buffers between them. For example, "The spots are very spacious & clean with a large buffer between sites."
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers good privacy, with well-separated sites and wooded surroundings: "The sites are spaced well with lots of shade," and "Very private campsites."
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNorth Face Loop sites may require reconnaissance for RV leveling. South Slope Loop offers better privacy and access to trails. Users recommend near shower house sites for convenience.
Best CampsitesSouth Slope Loop sites highly praised for shade, spacing, and privacy. Site 025 specifically noted for spaciousness and proximity to clean facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00
Check-out
12:00
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 vehicles per single site, 4 vehicles per double site.
Groups
No group camping site-specific information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites divided into two loops: North Face and South Slope. South Slope praised for shade and privacy; North Face noted for narrow roads and uphill layouts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 4 to October 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov. Booking window operates on a 6-month rolling basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailability not specifically detailed; some user reviews suggest busy periods requiring reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival incur a $10 fee and potential forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No refunds for cancellations on the scheduled check-in day.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Indian-Celina Lake offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating. The lakes provide ample opportunities for anglers, while the hiking trails cater to both casual walkers and experienced hikers. The Rickenbaugh Interpretive Trail and Two Lakes Loop National Recreation Trail are highlights for hikers. Additionally, visitors can enjoy exploring the historic Rickenbaugh House and its adjacent cemetery.
Hiking
The area features numerous hiking trails, including the "relatively easy, 1 mile Rickenbaugh Interpretive Trail" and the 16-mile Two Lakes Loop National Recreation Trail. The latter offers options for shorter day hikes and winds through peaceful forests. Reviews highlight easy access to trails, as one user noted, "The Loop Trail is accessible from the South Slope Loop near campsite #19."Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with anglers finding a variety of catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie in the lakes. The lakes also have many coves and miles of shoreline for fishing. An accessible fishing pier is available on Celina Lake.Boating
Boating is supported with year-round boat ramps on both lakes. However, only electric and non-motorized boats are allowed.Wildlife viewing
The dense hardwood and pine forests surrounding the lakes are home to a variety of wildlife, making the location ideal for nature observation. Specific details about species observed were not provided.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can tour the historic sandstone Rickenbaugh House built in 1874 and its adjacent cemetery. The house is open periodically throughout the year.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are allowed and encouraged.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood must meet specified requirements to prevent pests. Fire rings and grills provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are Strict enforcement of quiet hours mentioned in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsNo swimming allowed in camp lakes; dump station located off-site. Narrow roads and tight spaces within North Face loop may pose challenges for larger RVs.
Active alertsOccasional construction or maintenance closures reported. User reviews mention shower facilities being under renovation during certain periods.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 97%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Perry County Memorial Hospital in Tell City (approx. 16 miles). Local police and ranger station accessible within Hoosier National Forest jurisdiction.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 4 - October 25, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo trash cans or dumpsters are available at the off-site dump station, so campers are encouraged to use campground dumpsters before departure.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Celina and Indian lakes; boat ramps available year-round. No swimming allowed in camp lakes, but swimming available at nearby Lake Tipsaw.
Common complaintsSome sites are difficult to level for RVs. Dump station not on-site. Complaints about staff policy enforcing fees for motorcycles and adherence to strict check-out timelines.
HostHosts described as friendly and helpful across reviews. Lonny mentioned delivering firewood and providing site recommendations.
Campground Map
Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area, 20230 St Croix Pl, Bristow, IN 47515
Driving directionsFrom St. Crois, Indiana, travel south on State Route 37 about 2 miles to the Indian-Celina Recreation Area sign. Turn right and continue to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads; no off-road vehicle use allowed within the campground. Roads within the campground may be narrow, and caution is advised for large vehicles or trailers.Nearby places
Bristow (2 miles), St. Meinrad (approx. 10 miles), Ferdinand (approx. 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Convenience store (Circle S/Citgo) 2 miles south along SR 37. Nearby grocery and supplies in Tell City and Ferdinand.
Camper Reviews
4.5
67 reviews
Indian Celina Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's clean facilities, spacious and private sites, and friendly, helpful hosts. However, some complaints include the lack of an on-site dump station, absence of Wi-Fi, and occasional maintenance issues with showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 67 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious, wooded campsites with significant privacy; clean and well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities; helpful and friendly camp hosts; access to hiking trails; peaceful and quiet...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Shower facilities occasionally unavailable due to maintenance; narrow roads and tight navigation for larger vehicles; no on-site dump station; no Wi-Fi; extra charges for motorcycles.
Based on 67 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring cash for extra charges (e.g., additional vehicles) and use the campground dumpster before leaving. RV users should scout sites in advance due to potential leveling challenges,...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted as ideal seasons due to the pleasant weather and vibrant forest scenery. Summer reviews mention heat and the lack of swimming in the campground's lakes, while fall reviews...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The spots are very spacious & clean with a large buffer between sites." "The bathroom/shower room was well maintained - it was honestly one of the best of anywhere I've ever camped." "The sites are...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
South Slope Loop is favored for its spacious and shaded sites, while Northface Loop reviews mention road noise and leveling challenges. Specific site highlights include #25 in South Slope for privacy...
Based on 67 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets, drinking water, and showers are positively noted. An accessible fishing pier is available on Celina Lake.
Based on 67 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features are available.
Based on 67 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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