Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

4.28

135 reviews

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

Summer Destination

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

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

145 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowersWiFi

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

145 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowersWiFi

Opens Direct Line site

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.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 135 reviews

819 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikinglakebeach

"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."

Read all reviews

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

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.

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.

Best Time to Camp at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Experience the full spectrum of Indiana's seasonal beauty at Starve Hollow, where each season paints the landscape in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the recreation area into a peaceful wonderland, with frost-kissed mornings giving way to crisp, clear days. As spring awakens the forest, mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and boating on the lake, while autumn's arrival turns the surrounding forest into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber—arguably the most spectacular time to visit.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season with beach, boating, swimming and rentals; reviewers note high activity and amenities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall praised for scenic beauty and cooler temps ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring good for hiking and wildlife; trails can be muddy after rains per reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round and peaceful in winter, but limited winter-sport activities noted.

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.
Current Alerts: No active alerts or advisories mentioned.

About Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Nestled within Indiana's scenic heartland, Starve Hollow State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its impressive array of camping options and natural wonders. Choose from 90 electric campsites that blend modern convenience with nature's tranquility, 55 full hookup sites perfect for extended stays, or cozy rent-a-camp cabins that offer a touch of comfort in the wilderness. At the heart of this outdoor paradise lies a pristine 145-acre lake, surrounded by winding hiking trails that reveal the forest's hidden treasures. The on-site nature center serves as your gateway to understanding the rich ecosystem, making this destination a haven where families create lasting memories under towering canopies and starlit skies.

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 SignificanceStarve Hollow serves as more than just a natural retreat—it's a living connection to Indiana's rich cultural heritage. Each year, the surrounding community comes alive during Fort Vallonia Days, a celebration that transports visitors back to frontier times with historical reenactments, traditional crafts, and local storytelling. The renowned Jackson County Fair transforms the area into a vibrant showcase of agricultural traditions, where generations gather to celebrate rural life through livestock exhibitions, homemade goods, and time-honored competitions that have defined this region for over a century.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Indiana's seasonal beauty at Starve Hollow, where each season paints the landscape in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the recreation area into a peaceful wonderland, with frost-kissed mornings giving way to crisp, clear days. As spring awakens the forest, mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and boating on the lake, while autumn's arrival turns the surrounding forest into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber—arguably the most spectacular time to visit.

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 SceneryImmerse yourself in the pristine beauty of Jackson-Washington State Forest, where Starve Hollow's campground seamlessly blends into a landscape of towering mature trees and emerald meadows. The meticulously maintained lakefront sites offer front-row seats to nature's daily theater, where morning mists dance across the water and evening brings spectacular sunsets. Wildlife enthusiasts will marvel at the diverse ecosystem—majestic bald eagles soar overhead while playful muskrats navigate the shoreline waters. Well-groomed grassy areas provide perfect spots for family gatherings, while the canopy of ancient trees offers natural shade and a sense of timeless tranquility that defines this special corner of Indiana.

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.

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 layoutCampground includes electric, full hookup, and rent-a-camp cabin loops; some sites are right on the lake.

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.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

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.

HikingThe park features trails of varying difficulty, including rugged and moderate options. As noted in one user review, 'Excellently marked trails. The rugged trail (orange) is straight up for over the first half of a mile.'

FishingFishing is a popular activity, described as 'pretty good' by one camper, though some note challenges such as turtles stealing bait.

SwimmingSwimming is available at the large sandy beach on the lake. Reviews describe the beach as 'clean,' though one notes that the water clarity might not meet everyone's preferences.

BikingThe park offers biking trails and paved roads suitable for bicycles. One reviewer remarked that the paved roads were 'nice and smooth for bike rides.'

BoatingBoating options include rentals for kayaks, canoes, and Jon boats. Gas motors are prohibited, making the lake peaceful for paddlers.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings are frequent, including bald eagles and muskrats. A reviewer shared, 'I saw two muskrats swimming along the water's edge. Pretty cool little critters.'

Policies & Safety

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

Active AlertsNo active alerts or advisories mentioned.

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.'

Weather at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.3

135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 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 135 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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