How much does camping cost at Tipsaw Lake?

Camping fees at Tipsaw Lake range from $24-$80/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Tipsaw Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Tipsaw Lake accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Tipsaw Lake before I book?

Yes! Tipsaw Lake has 11 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Tipsaw Lake?

Tipsaw Lake is open April 03 to October 24. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Tipsaw Lake?

Yes, Tipsaw Lake has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Tipsaw Lake have?

Tipsaw Lake has 65 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Tipsaw Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Tipsaw Lake. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Tipsaw Lake?

Tipsaw Lake offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Tipsaw Lake?

Popular activities at Tipsaw Lake include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Tipsaw Lake

Q: Can I have a campfire at Tipsaw Lake?

Fire policies at Tipsaw Lake: Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.09

177 reviews

TIPSAW LAKE RECREATION AREA, ST. CROIX, IN, 47576, USA

Great for GroupsSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Indiana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

380 ft

Price

$24 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on BA Services Inc.Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

380 ft

Price

$24 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on BA Services Inc.Official Website

Get Directions

Tipsaw Lake

$24.00 - $80.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $59.00; GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC: $50.00; GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC: $80.00; Goldenrod Group Campground: $80.00; Primrose...

Standard Site Fee$28.00

Hookup Site Fee$31.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$21.00

Group Site Fee$70.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

812-843-4891

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

TIPSAW LAKE RECREATION AREA, ST. CROIX, IN, 47576, USA

Tipsaw Lake

TIPSAW LAKE RECREATION AREA, ST. CROIX, IN, 47576, USA

Nearby places

St. Croix (5 miles, ~10 minutes), Branchville (3 miles, ~5 minutes)

Weather at Tipsaw Lake

Current alerts(5)

$8 fee will be charged to vehicles using the day use area
Click here for more information on the Hoosier National Forest
Each campsite fee includes a camping unit (tent,camper) & one vehicle (single sites) and two vehicles (double sites). There is a $8.00 charge per day for the second vehicle, and $8.00 charge per day for any additional vehicle (must be paid at time of check-in).
First-come, first-served sites may be available

Best Time to Camp at Tipsaw Lake

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the fullest range of lake-based recreation — warm water for swimming, steady boating and peak fishing — with long daylight and reliably warm days (typically highs in the mid-70s to low-90s °F / 24–33 °C). Trails and shaded campsites under mature hardwoods make it comfortable for hiking and biking, while wildlife and bird activity remain strong. Expect higher weekend crowds and afternoon thunderstorms, so reserve early and plan flexible, water-friendly days. Peak months: July, June, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best lake access; water warm enough for swimming, busy but well-maintained in summer months.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 03 to October 24. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open from April 4 to October 25, 2025, during peak season.

About Tipsaw Lake

Tipsaw Lake sits within Hoosier National Forest near St. Croix, Indiana, offering tent, RV, and primitive camping on a mid-sized lake managed by BA Services Inc. The campground features electric and water hookups, showers, and flush toilets, with a swim beach and boat access that draw families and anglers during the peak season. Mature hardwoods shade the sites, and hiking and biking trails wind through the surrounding forest.

Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping. Some sites offer electric and water hookups, while others are primitive. Group sites can accommodate up to 65 people.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the fullest range of lake-based recreation — warm water for swimming, steady boating and peak fishing — with long daylight and reliably warm days (typically highs in the mid-70s to low-90s °F / 24–33 °C). Trails and shaded campsites under mature hardwoods make it comfortable for hiking and biking, while wildlife and bird activity remain strong. Expect higher weekend crowds and afternoon thunderstorms, so reserve early and plan flexible, water-friendly days. Peak months: July, June, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation380 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 380 feet elevation in south-central Indiana's rolling hardwood forest, with pine stands scattered throughout. Tipsaw Lake itself covers 131 acres and anchors the recreation area. Mature trees provide good shade across most loops. The landscape shows the gentle ridges and valleys typical of this part of the Hoosier National Forest. A sandy beach area edges the lake. Wildlife is active, but so are ticks and poison ivy, both mentioned frequently in reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations are mentioned; the focus is on traditional camping options such as tent, RV, and group sites.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs are offered, though specific topics and schedules are not detailed.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guests are limited to the individual site capacity. Group sites can accommodate up to 65.

Groups

Group campsites are available and can accommodate up to 65 people. Specific site numbers, such as GS5, are highlighted in reviews as suitable for family gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 812-843-4891.

AccessibilityFacilities such as flush toilets and the beach area, including changing rooms, are fully accessible. Additional mentions of paved roads and parking surfaces indicate some level of accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size with some described as 'spacious' and others noted to have 'dramatic slopes' or be smaller than state park sites.

PrivacyThe campsites provide varying levels of privacy. Some are described as 'shady, private, and comfortable,' while others are noted for being 'clustered' or 'close together.

Total Campsites65 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites with steep pad slopes, as noted by reviewers. For instance, Jack Pine 21 was deemed dangerous due to a severe drop-off. Lake-accessible sites like Dogwood 037 offer proximity to water.

Best CampsitesThe JackPine loop gets consistent praise for privacy and spacing. Site selection matters here because slopes vary dramatically and some sites cluster close together while others feel genuinely secluded. Reviewers note that site sizes run smaller than typical state park sites, so check specifics before booking if you have a large RV.

Need help booking Tipsaw Lake?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area provides a wide array of amenities aimed at ensuring comfort and convenience for campers. The campground features accessible flush toilets, showers, drinking water, and paved parking surfaces. 'Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills,' offering campers a well-rounded experience. Additionally, the site includes a fully accessible beach with changing rooms and a modern bathhouse. The beach features a combination of sand and sun and a grassy, shaded hillside for relaxation. For RV campers, 'electric and water hookups are available at some sites.' Open play areas, picnic shelters, and horseshoe pits are also part of the day-use area. While firewood is sold on-site, reviews mention that it is expensive. Ice is also available for purchase and delivered directly to campsites.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area offers a diverse range of activities to suit different interests. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and swimming. The lake is particularly praised for 'excellent fishing for panfish,' and electric motors are allowed on the water. The 5.9-mile trail around the lake is suitable for hiking and mountain biking, with scenic overlooks and a variety of forest types. A permit is required for mountain bikers aged 17 and older. Additionally, the beach area is a highlight, featuring playground equipment and a mix of sunny and grassy shady spots.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyDon't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their location and pickup schedules are not provided.

Cell CoverageMultiple reviews highlight the lack of cell service in the campground, with specific mentions of AT&T having no coverage. Some guests noted that 'phone calls dropped' and recommended relying on offline resources.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

177 reviews

Satisfactory

Tipsaw Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Tipsaw Lake is well-regarded for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and beautiful natural setting. While most reviews are positive, some consistent complaints include issues with cell service, occasional maintenance delays, and the presence of ticks and poison ivy.

Review Summaries

Based on 177 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the friendliness of the campground hosts, and the beauty of the lake and campsites. The beach area, fishing opportunities, and spacious...

Based on 177 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints involve the lack of cell service, high firewood prices, and issues with maintenance, such as non-functional electrical hookups. Ticks, poison ivy, and occasional algae in the lake...

Based on 177 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

'Site 015 in the JackPine Loop had non-functional 50-amp pedestals.' - John J.\n'Site 037 in Dogwood had a lot of ticks and poison ivy.' - Erin F.\n'Group site GS5 is fantastic for family...

Based on 177 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing a 50-to-30-amp adapter for RVs, as some electrical hookups may not function. Using Google Maps for directions is also advised to avoid navigation errors. Visitors suggest...

Based on 177 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season reviews note the campground's busy but well-maintained condition. Off-season reviews highlight its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking solitude. Summer visits are marked by high...

Based on 177 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground is beautiful but be careful when you select your site, some of the parking pads have dramatic slopes.' - Kendra D.\n2. 'The beach area is clean, and the modern bathhouse is a huge...

Based on 177 reviews

Accessibility Features

Facilities are praised for their accessibility, including the flush toilets, modern bathhouse, and paved roads. However, some reviews note that not all sites are equally accessible due to slopes.

Based on 177 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet owners note the lack of dog-friendly areas near the lake. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, and there are limited options for letting pets access the water.

Based on 177 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a full-service lake campground with swimming, boating, and fishing in a national forest setting.

Skip if

You need reliable cell service or guaranteed trouble-free 50-amp hookups.

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Campgrounds

Hoosier National Forest

Tipsaw Lake

About Hoosier National Forest

Context for the broader area surrounding Tipsaw Lake, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Hoosier National Forest, in the hills of south central Indiana, provides a wide mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy. Rolling hills, back-country trails, and rural crossroad communities make this small but beautiful 204,000 acre Forest a local treasure. Forest managers work with the public to develop a shared vision of stewardship focused on restoring, maintaining, and interpreting the cultural and natural resources of our public lands.

Directions

https://www.fs.usda.gov/hoosier/ Supervisor's Office 811 Constitution Avenue Bedford, IN 47421 (812) 275-5987 or 1-866-302-4173 FRS: 1-800-877-8339.