How much does camping cost at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area range from $7-$9/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Starve Hollow State Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area 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.

What is the best time to visit Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area is open Exact peak season dates not provided; user reviews suggest summer is popular.. 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 Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Yes, Starve Hollow State Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area: Fire pits are provided at campsites; specific policies not mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Starve Hollow State Recreation Area have?

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area has 145 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area. 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 Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

4.28

173 reviews

4345 South CR. 275 West , VALLONIA, Indiana, 47281, United States

Top 10% in INSummer

Summer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Indiana Swimming Camping Indiana Boating Camping Indiana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

145 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

145 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

$7.00 - $9.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Entrance fee: $7 for in-state visitors and $9 for out-of-state visitors.

No paid fee categories listed.

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8123583464

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Campground Map

4345 South CR. 275 West , VALLONIA, Indiana, 47281, United States

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

4345 South CR. 275 West , VALLONIA, Indiana, 47281, United States

Nearby places

Spring Mill State Park (36 miles), Brown County State Park (44 miles), Hardy Lake (29 miles), Monroe Reservoir (35 miles), Louisville, KY (55 miles), Indianapolis (75 miles), Bloomington (50 miles), Cincinnati, Ohio (135 miles)

Nearby supplies

Within 10 miles of the campground are grocery stores, propane suppliers, fuel stations, and farm markets for essential supplies.

Driving directionsFROM THE NORTH: I-65 SOUTH TO US 50. TAKE US 50 WEST TO BROWNSTOWN, TURN SOUTH ON STATE ROAD 135 FOR 4 MILES TO VALLONIA. TURN LEFT AT THE SIGN. FROM THE SOUTH: I-65 NORTH TO US 50. TAKE US WEST TO BROWNSTOWN, TURN SOUTH ON STATE ROAD 135 FOR 4 MILES TO VALLONIA. TURN LEFT AT SIGN.

The campground has good accessibility via major roads including I-65 and US 50. Directions are straightforward with major state roads involved. However, there may be challenges during heavy traffic or seasonal closures.

Weather at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Summer is the prime season here. Expect daytime highs in the mid-70s to upper-80s°F with cooler evenings in the 50s–60s, ideal for boating, swimming, fishing, and long campfires. The lake and boat ramps are fully operational, and trail access is excellent. Weekends and holiday weeks get crowded. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, good for hiking and wildlife watching. Autumn turns the surrounding forest into layers of gold, crimson, and amber. Winter sees fewer visitors and frost-kissed mornings. One tradeoff: reviews mention muddy lake conditions at times, likely seasonal or weather-dependent.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in IN

Summer is prime: beach, boating, rentals and peak activity; reviewers note high appeal.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Exact peak season dates not provided; user reviews suggest summer is popular.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; peak seasons and closures not specified.

About Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area sits within Jackson-Washington State Forest near Vallonia, offering 145 campsites around a 145-acre lake at 571 feet elevation. The campground has 90 electric sites, 55 full-hookup sites, and rent-a-camp cabins, with nightly fees ranging from $7 to $9. Lakefront sites draw the most interest, though conditions vary from spacious to tight depending on location.

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area accommodates a wide range of camping preferences, from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping and rentable cabins. The diversity ensures options for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking solitude.

Historical Significance

The area hosts Fort Vallonia Days each year, a festival with historical reenactments, traditional crafts, and local storytelling that connects visitors to frontier-era Indiana. The Jackson County Fair brings agricultural traditions to life through livestock exhibitions, homemade goods, and competitions that have defined the region for over a century.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the prime season here. Expect daytime highs in the mid-70s to upper-80s°F with cooler evenings in the 50s–60s, ideal for boating, swimming, fishing, and long campfires. The lake and boat ramps are fully operational, and trail access is excellent. Weekends and holiday weeks get crowded. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, good for hiking and wildlife watching. Autumn turns the surrounding forest into layers of gold, crimson, and amber. Winter sees fewer visitors and frost-kissed mornings. One tradeoff: reviews mention muddy lake conditions at times, likely seasonal or weather-dependent.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Starve Hollow creates natural amphitheaters and scenic overlooks throughout the recreation area, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding Jackson-Washington State Forest. These subtle elevation changes add character to hiking trails and provide strategic vantage points for wildlife observation and photography.

Natural Features and SceneryThe 145-acre lake anchors the recreation area, surrounded by rolling hills and rugged hiking trails that wind through southern Indiana forest. The interplay of water and varied terrain creates different landscapes within the same property. Some areas offer gentle lakeside access, others climb into steeper, wooded sections. Reviewers mention the lake's picturesque quality and a beach area for swimming. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles overhead and muskrats along the shoreline. Mature trees provide shade in parts of the campground, though coverage isn't uniform across all sites.

Geological RegionCarved into the heart of the expansive Jackson-Washington State Forest, Starve Hollow showcases southern Indiana's diverse recreational landscape at its finest. The centerpiece 145-acre lake, formed within the region's characteristic rolling hills, creates a stunning aquatic oasis surrounded by rugged hiking trails that wind through varied terrain. This unique geological setting offers adventurers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging forest paths, all while treating visitors to scenic vistas that capture the essence of Indiana's natural heritage. The interplay of water, forest, and topography creates an ever-changing canvas that rewards exploration in every season.

Scenic ViewsSeveral campsites are located right on the lake, offering scenic water views. User review: 'Camping with a view!'

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options include multiple rent-a-camp cabins such as Cedar Cabin, Willow Cabin, and others. Some reviews highlight their utility for hunting trips and family stays, and one camper noted, "The cabin was also very nice and was very welcoming after a hard day of hunting and hiking."

Programs & ActivitiesThe Nature Center offers conservation education and interpretive displays, enhancing the educational value of visits.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

2:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 guests allowed per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground splits into electric, full-hookup, and cabin loops. Some sites sit right on the lake, others back into wooded areas. Site spacing isn't consistent. You'll find both spacious spots and tighter clusters. A few reviewers mentioned bringing extra leveling equipment for uneven terrain.

Reservation PlatformsReservations may be made online, but information regarding third-party platforms is not provided.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground often fills to capacity during peak times; walk-up availability is limited.

Cancellation Policy.

AccessibilityThe park features a handicapped fishing dock, among other accommodations, but detailed accessibility reviews are limited.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with some described as spacious. For example, Site 206 was noted as 'HUGE' with plenty of room to spread out.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some lakefront spots are described as tight, while others offer more seclusion.

Total Campsites145 campsites

Recommended SitesSite-specific recommendations include choosing lakefront sites for views and spaciousness.

Best CampsitesLakefront sites like 29 and 36 get frequent praise for scenic views. Site 206 stands out for sheer size. One reviewer called it 'HUGE' with plenty of room to spread out. Lakefront spots vary in spacing, though. Some are tight, especially during peak times. Book lakefront early if views matter to you.

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Amenities available

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area offers a diverse array of amenities, making it suitable for campers of various preferences. Highlights include 90 electric campsites and 55 full hookup sites, complemented by rentable cabins. The 145-acre lake serves as a focal point for activities like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, with boat rentals available. Additional facilities include basketball courts, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a softball field. "Firewood is sold on the property for campers' convenience," and weekend concessions are available during summer at the boat rental facility. The site also includes a fish cleaning station, three boat ramps, and a Nature Center with interpretive displays.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

WiFi

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational opportunities abound at Starve Hollow, driven by its scenic lake and natural surroundings. Activities include hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. During summer, a sandy beach becomes a hub for sunbathing and family play. The Nature Center on-site provides interpretive programs and displays, enriching the visitor experience.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser review highlighted lake hazards like seaweed, muck, and leeches. Terrain can be rugged with steep trails.

Fire PolicyFire pits are provided at campsites; specific policies not mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Daily quiet hours are 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are within 10 miles, including medical clinics, vet clinics, and various other facilities.

Trash & RecyclingA recycling station is available within the facility, and trash disposal is facilitated near campsites.

Water FeaturesThe campground includes a 145-acre lake suitable for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Camp HostUser review: 'The camp host was very friendly and helpful, even assisting with technical issues.'

Cell CoverageReviews indicate mixed experiences with cell service. One camper noted, "T-mobile service was decent; however, I was able to use free public WiFi!" suggesting that Wi-Fi may supplement inconsistent cell service.

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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Tips from campers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

173 reviews

Satisfactory

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User sentiments about Starve Hollow are largely positive, emphasizing the park's beauty, clean facilities, and variety of activities. Lakefront sites are particularly praised, though some reviewers noted challenges with muddy conditions or cabin cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 173 reviews

What Campers Love

- Clean and well-maintained facilities - Friendly, helpful staff - Picturesque lake and beach - Wide range of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Based on 173 reviews

Common Concerns

- Muddy trails during rainy seasons - Overcrowded or noisy conditions in peak times - Some dissatisfaction with water quality for swimming - Infrequent or inconsistent security enforcement.

Based on 173 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site 29: "Smaller than expected but very level, right on the lake." - Site 206: "HUGE site, plenty of room to spread out." - Site 31: "Large tree obstructing camper awning, but great lakefront...

Based on 173 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Book lakefront sites for the best views. - Bring extra leveling equipment for uneven spots. - Visit during off-peak times for a quieter experience. - Utilize the Nature Center for educational...

Based on 173 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are noted for their scenic beauty and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Summer sees higher activity levels, with the lake and beach becoming central...

Based on 173 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'One of the most beautiful campsites I've ever stayed at.' - 'We make sure that we have a waterfront spot booked at least once a year.' - 'The trails are pretty well marked but still a little...

Based on 173 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited specific feedback, but the presence of a handicapped fishing dock and general accessibility of trails suggest some accommodations for disabled visitors.

Based on 173 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and some reviewers appreciated this policy. However, there are concerns about pet owners not cleaning up after their animals, as noted in one review: 'A person took their dog out...

Based on 173 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Families chasing a full week on the water at a state-park price: site 206 for space, or site 29 if you want lakefront without much fuss. Gas motors banned on the lake, so kayaking and canoeing stay peaceful. Fishing, a sandy beach, marked hiking trails, and boat rentals all withi

Skip if

Reviewers flag more neighbor friction and conflict with other campers here than at similar parks, and security enforcement is described as inconsistent, so a loud holiday weekend could get uncomfortable. Muddy lake conditions and water clarity also drew real complaints, and swimm

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