Hardy Lake

3.75

7 reviews

4171 East Harrod Rd, SCOTTSBURG, Indiana, 47170-8438, United States

Quick Facts

659 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

659 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Hardy Lake

$25.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $25 to $35 depending on site type and hookups.

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

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Provider

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What Campers Say

3.75

Mixed Reviews

Based on 7 reviews

1 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslakesites

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

4171 East Harrod Rd, SCOTTSBURG, Indiana, 47170-8438, United States

Hardy Lake

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.

Best Time to Camp at Hardy Lake

Experience 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.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season details not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Both campgrounds are open year-round.

About Hardy Lake

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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes two distinct campgrounds with varying proximity to the lake.

Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms not specified.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability details are not provided.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.

AccessibilityNo information on accessibility features is available.

Site SizeExact campsite dimensions are not specified in the provided materials.

PrivacyNo information about the level of privacy at campsites is available.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider site 155 for its proximity to the lake. Avoid site 151 due to its uneven ground and location near the bathrooms.

Amenities available

Electricity hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

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.

HikingThe campground has hiking trails, including easy walking paths. Detailed descriptions of trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.

FishingHardy Lake is described as offering 'great fishing,' but specifics on fish types or fishing conditions are not available.

SwimmingSwimming is allowed in the reservoir, but there are no details about designated areas or safety measures.

BoatingBoating is a key activity, with options for paddle boating, kayaking, and power boating. There is also a marina and boat docks available.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing and bird watching are mentioned as activities; no specific species are detailed.

Beach activitiesThe campground has a beach for sunbathing, but there are no additional specifics about the sand quality or other beach-related features.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome sites may have uneven ground—site 151 was noted as such in a user review. Proximity to bathrooms may also reduce privacy.

Fire PolicyFire rings and adjustable grills are provided at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours information is not provided.

Emergency ServicesGreater than 10 miles: hospital, medical clinic, emergency services.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to a 740-acre lake, featuring fishing, boating, kayaking, and water skiing.

Camp HostThere is a campground host available at the facility.

Weather at Hardy Lake

Reviews

3.8

7 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Hardy Lake has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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

Based on 7 reviews

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.

Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints focus on site-specific issues such as uneven ground at campsite 151 and its undesirable proximity to restrooms.

Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend selecting lakeside sites for better views and overall experience. Avoid campsite 151 due to uneven ground.

Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No seasonal trends are explicitly noted in user reviews.

Based on 7 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...

Based on 7 reviews

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.

Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews addressing accessibility features are available.

Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically mention policies or experiences related to pets.

Based on 7 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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