Hardy Lake
00 review4171 East Harrod Rd, SCOTTSBURG, Indiana, 47170-8438, United States
Hardy Lake
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
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 site type and hookups.
About this campground
Nestled around a stunning 740-acre lake, Hardy Lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water adventures and land-based exploration. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, carving through crystal waters on skis, or discovering hidden coves along scenic hiking trails, this destination offers something for every nature lover. Two year-round campgrounds provide your home base, with Shale Bluff Campground offering the convenience of electrical hookups at every site. Sandy beaches invite afternoon relaxation, while shaded picnic areas create perfect spots for family gatherings against the backdrop of shimmering waters.
Hardy Lake campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including primitive camping and improved sites. There is a mix of tent and RV-friendly sites, and some are located near the lake.
Historical SignificanceWhile Hardy Lake's story may be written more in natural beauty than historical markers, the area represents Indiana's commitment to preserving outdoor spaces for public enjoyment. The lake itself stands as a testament to conservation efforts, creating a recreational haven that has drawn families and outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Indiana's seasons at Hardy Lake, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter transforms the area into a quiet wonderland, with crisp air and occasional dustings of snow creating a peaceful retreat for hardy campers. As spring awakens the shoreline with wildflowers, temperatures moderate into perfect hiking weather. Summer brings warm, languid days with temperatures climbing above 80°F—ideal for beach lounging and water sports, though the humidity reminds you to seek shade during afternoon hours. Fall arrives with a gentle touch, offering comfortable camping conditions and spectacular foliage reflected in the lake's mirror-like surface.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain around Hardy Lake creates an accessible outdoor playground where families of all ages can comfortably explore. The varied topography offers just enough change to keep hikes interesting while remaining manageable for casual adventurers.
Natural Features and SceneryHardy Lake's expansive reservoir serves as the crown jewel of this outdoor paradise, its 740 acres reflecting sky and forest in equal measure. Early morning mists rise from the water as herons wade through the shallows, while eagles occasionally soar overhead. The surrounding landscape bursts with seasonal wildflowers that paint meadows in vibrant colors, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Well-maintained trails wind through diverse habitats where deer paths cross your own, and patient observers might spot wild turkeys, foxes, or the occasional river otter playing near the shore.
Geological RegionSet within Indiana's scenic SPR region, Hardy Lake showcases the area's characteristic blend of water and woodland ecosystems. The 740-acre lake, carved into the regional landscape, creates a recreational oasis where anglers pursue bass and bluegill, water skiers slice through calm waters, and hikers explore trails that reveal the diverse geology and ecology of southern Indiana. This unique setting offers visitors a chance to experience the natural heritage of the Hoosier State in one spectacular location.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information on accessibility features is available.
Sites SizeExact campsite dimensions are not specified in the provided materials.
Sites PrivacyNo information about the level of privacy at campsites is available.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider site 155 for its proximity to the lake. Avoid site 151 due to its uneven ground and location near the bathrooms.
Best Campsites"Site 155 is directly on the lake and highly recommended. Sites 154, 156, 157, 158, and 159 are also praised for their lake proximity."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No information is provided on group-specific camping accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two distinct campgrounds with varying proximity to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonBoth campgrounds are open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms not specified.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability details are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Hardy Lake campground offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground is noted for its 740-acre lake, which provides opportunities for water skiing and swimming. Hunting is allowed during designated seasons, and there are trails for leisurely walking or more strenuous hiking. Additionally, there are picnic areas, playgrounds, and opportunities for bird watching and photography.
Hiking
The campground has hiking trails, including easy walking paths. Detailed descriptions of trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Hardy Lake is described as offering 'great fishing,' but specifics on fish types or fishing conditions are not available.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in the reservoir, but there are no details about designated areas or safety measures.Boating
Boating is a key activity, with options for paddle boating, kayaking, and power boating. There is also a marina and boat docks available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing and bird watching are mentioned as activities; no specific species are detailed.Beach activities
The campground has a beach for sunbathing, but there are no additional specifics about the sand quality or other beach-related features.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are described.Water Sports
Water skiing is explicitly mentioned as a popular activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings and adjustable grills are provided at each site.
- Quiet hours information is not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites may have uneven ground—site 151 was noted as such in a user review. Proximity to bathrooms may also reduce privacy.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Greater than 10 miles: hospital, medical clinic, emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season details not specified.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to a 740-acre lake, featuring fishing, boating, kayaking, and water skiing.
Common complaints"Site 151 has the most uneven ground and is nearest to the bathrooms," as noted in a user review.
HostThere is a campground host available at the facility.
Campground Map
4171 East Harrod Rd, SCOTTSBURG, Indiana, 47170-8438, United States
Driving directionsTraveling from Indianapolis, IN or Louisville KY, take I-65 to exit 34A at Austin IN, travel east on state road 256 through Austin approximately 6 miles. Turn left at caution light and travel approximately 3 miles to the property entrance gate.
The campground is accessible year-round. Roads to the property include state road 256 and a left turn at a caution light, followed by approximately 3 miles of travel. The condition of the roads is not detailed, but accessibility is implied.Nearby places
Austin (6 miles), Scottsburg (null), Louisville (null), Indianapolis (null)
Nearby supplies
Greater than 10 miles: grocery store, propane, shopping, firewood, ice.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hardy Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the mixed experiences at Hardy Lake, with positive mentions of lakeside sites and convenient amenities, and complaints about uneven ground and proximity to bathrooms.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the scenic lakeside sites such as campsite 155, which is directly on the lake. Sites 154, 156, 157, 158, and 159 are also praised.
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on site-specific issues such as uneven ground at campsite 151 and its undesirable proximity to restrooms.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend selecting lakeside sites for better views and overall experience. Avoid campsite 151 due to uneven ground.
Seasonal Insights
No seasonal trends are explicitly noted in user reviews.
Camper Quotes
"I would recommend spot 155, it is right on the lake. 154, 156, 157, 158 and 159 are also great spots." "We stayed at camp site 151. I wouldn't recommend this particular spot, as it is the nearest to...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 151 is criticized for uneven ground and being too close to the bathrooms. Sites 155, 154, 156, 157, 158, and 159 are highly recommended for their location and views.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews addressing accessibility features are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention policies or experiences related to pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025