Yellowwood State Forest
00 review772 Yellowwood Lake Road, Nashville, Indiana, 47448, United States
Yellowwood State Forest
$13.00 - $13.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$13.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Primitive camping fee is $13 per night, as reported in user reviews. Payment is made via honor box.
About this campground
Escape to the wild heart of Indiana at Yellowwood State Forest, where 74 pristine primitive campsites and 11 specialized equestrian sites await adventurous souls seeking authentic backcountry experiences. This rugged wilderness sanctuary invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature along the shores of serene Yellowwood Lake. Whether you're hiking scenic trails, paddling peaceful waters, or simply stargazing from your campsite, this year-round outdoor playground offers endless opportunities for adventure and solitude in equal measure.
The campground primarily offers primitive camping options but also includes a lodge and designated horse camps.
Weather and SeasonsData analysis later.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWander through a living tapestry of towering pines that tell stories of decades past, their weathered trunks standing as monuments to nature's resilience against harsh winters, persistent insects, and disease. This diverse forest ecosystem creates a dramatic backdrop for your camping adventure, where each trail reveals new perspectives of Indiana's untamed beauty. The landscape unfolds in layers of green canopy and golden forest floor, offering photographers and nature lovers endless inspiration throughout the changing seasons.
Geological RegionDiscover a landscape sculpted by ancient forces at the very edge of prehistoric glaciation. Here, time has carved a dramatic terrain of razor-sharp ridges that slice through morning mist, plunging slopes that challenge even seasoned hikers, and countless hidden drainages that whisper with seasonal streams. This unglaciated wonderland showcases nature's raw artistry, where every vista tells the story of millions of years of geological drama frozen in stone and soil.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible campsites and hiking trails are available on-site.
Sites SizeThe campsites include 74 primitive sites and 11 designated horse camping locations.
Sites Privacy"The campsites are pretty secluded so you’re only really close to one neighboring campsite."
Total Campsites85 campsites
Best Campsites"Campsites are most secluded on Friday afternoons."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
"14:00"
Check-out
"10:00"
Stay Limit
"Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources,"
Guests Allowed Per Site
"Limited to 8"
Groups
One group camping shelter (WPA Shelter) is available, accommodating up to 50 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout11 primitive loops (approx.)
Open and Closed Season"Seasonality unspecified"
Walk-in Availability"Early arrivals recommended"
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Yellowwood State Forest offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The 133-acre Yellowwood Lake provides opportunities for fishing and paddling, while the surrounding trails cater to hikers, equestrians, and cyclists.
Hiking
"Yellowwood State Forest has ~12 miles of hiking trails and hosts a significant portion of the 40-mile-long Tecumseh Trail. Trails vary in difficulty, offering hikes for all experience levels."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Yellowwood Lake, which spans 133 acres. Specific details about fish types are not provided.Biking
The property features approximately 18 miles of off-road cycling trails, designed for various skill levels.Boating
Seasonal rentals for rowboats and kayaks are available. The lake is equipped with boat ramps and docks.Wildlife viewing
The location’s natural features, including its forested environment and lake, offer opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is explicitly mentioned as a winter activity.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddle boating are available activities on Yellowwood Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood - null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Bathrooms are reported as poorly maintained, especially near the entrance."
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
Within 10 miles: emergency services, hospitals, and police stations in Nashville.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Proximity to water features133 lake
Host"Not stated;"
Campground Map
772 Yellowwood Lake Road, Nashville, Indiana, 47448, United States
Driving directionsFrom Bloomington: At intersection of SR 446 and SR 46 East, travel east for 9.4 miles, turn left onto Yellowwood Rd, follow for 1.2 miles to stop sign, turn left to stay on Yellowwood Rd for 1 mile to next intersection, turn right onto Yellowwood Lake Rd, follow for 0.7 mile, turn left into Yellowwood State Forest office parking lot. From Nashville: At intersection of SR 135 and SR 46 East, travel West for 5.8 miles, turn right onto Yellowwood Rd, follow for 1.2 miles to stop sign, turn left to stay on Yellowwood Rd for 1 mile to next intersection, turn right onto Yellowwood Lake Rd, follow for 0.7 mile, turn left into Yellowwood State Forest office parking lot.
"Yellowwood State Forest's roads are accessible year-round, but road conditions may vary seasonally due to weather."Nearby places
Bloomington, Indiana (approximately 20 miles)
Nashville, Indiana (approximately 5.8 miles)
Brown County State Park (approximately 6 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: stores offering camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials in Nashville.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Yellowwood State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s seclusion, natural beauty, and affordability. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the variety of outdoor activities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers emphasized the campground’s quiet, secluded environment, the availability of restrooms, trails, and boat rentals, and its suitability for families and pets. Many noted the affordability at...
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Common Concerns
Some users mentioned limited privacy in the restrooms and noted that the office was closed during certain hours, restricting access to boat rentals.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early on Fridays to secure a campsite, as they are first-come, first-served. Bring cash for the honor box payment system ($13/night).
Seasonal Insights
Fall weekends tend to be busier due to increased demand. Visitors noted that COVID-19 led to sites filling up quickly during this time.
Camper Quotes
"The campsites are pretty secluded so you’re only really close to one neighboring campsite." - Casandra Boles. "This is a great little spot for primitive camping. It’s cheap at $13 per night per...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are not provided beyond general descriptions of amenities and conditions.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility features are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as pet-friendly in reviews.
Last updated August 10, 2025