German Ridge Campground
20
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About German Ridge Campground
Overview The German Ridge Recreation Area includes a 20 site campground, a 24-mile multiple use trail, a short hiking trail around a scenic lake and cliff area, a seasonal day use area for swimming and picnicking, and several historic buildings. It was established during the Civilian Conservation Corps days and has long been a popular get-away for people in southern Indiana. Recreation This area includes 20 campsites, over 25 miles of multiple-use trails, and a swimming beach (Open Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend) with shelter. Facilities This area includes 20 campsites, over 25 miles of multiple-use trails, and a swimming beach (Open Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend) with shelter. Natural Features Sandstone rock outcroppings, rolling hills, and wildlife can be found here in a hardwood forest setting.
- 20 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: unknown (20).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes German Ridge Campground special
Tucked into the rolling hills of southern Indiana's Hoosier National Forest, German Ridge Campground is a hidden treasure for campers who love a landscape that surprises. With 20 sites, a 24-mile multi-use trail system, and access to scenic lake and cliff areas, this campground packs an unexpected amount of adventure into a modest footprint. The terrain here defies the flat-cornfield stereotype that many people hold about Indiana. Forested ridges, sandstone bluffs, and seasonal creeks create a landscape that feels more Appalachian than Midwestern. The German Ridge Trail winds through this varied topography, offering excellent hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding across miles of oak-hickory forest. The nearby lake provides a quiet spot for fishing and reflection, while the cliff overlooks reward those willing to explore with sweeping views of the wooded hollows below. Spring brings a riot of wildflowers to the forest floor, and fall transforms the canopy into a patchwork of orange, red, and gold. German Ridge Campground is the kind of place that changes how you think about a region. It offers genuine wilderness character in the heart of the Midwest, proving that you do not have to drive to the Rockies or the Appalachians to find rugged, beautiful country worth exploring on foot, on horseback, or from a well-placed campsite.
Campsite Inventory
20 sites to choose from
Unknown
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-in, Pull-through
Driveway length (ft)
54, 57, 59, 60
Driveway surface
Gravel
HITCHING RACKS
Hitching Racks
HORSEBACK RIDING TRAILS
Horseback Riding Trails
LANTERN POSTS
Lantern Posts
Max guests
8
Minimum guests
Yes
NON-POTABLE WATER
Non-Potable Water
PICNIC TABLES
Picnic Tables
Pets allowed
Yes
Site Access
Drive-In
TRAILHEAD PARKING
Trailhead Parking
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
Tell City Ranger District Front Office: 812-547-7051
SM.FS.R9HOFwebsite@usda.gov
Getting There
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to German Ridge Campground .
How do reservations work for German Ridge Campground ?
Reservation availability for German Ridge Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at German Ridge Campground ?
German Ridge Campground currently lists Unknown (20).
Where is German Ridge Campground located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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