Are you in need of a campground near Spencer, IN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Spencer. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
Located 6 miles south of Bloomington and the IU campus, Monroe Lake is the largest in Indiana. Paynetown Campground is a recreation area that is part of Monroe Lake. Activities at Monroe include fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, picnicking, water recreation, bird/eagle viewing, and many others.
$16 - $30 / night
Welcome to Lieber State Recreation Area, a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and activities. Nestled near Cloverdale, IN, this campground offers a great escape with plenty to keep you busy. The campground is open year-round and caters to both tent and RV campers, making it a versatile spot for all kinds of adventurers.
One of the standout features here is the large pool, complete with a slide and an attached playground. It's a hit with families, especially since the pool area includes a sand-filled soccer pitch and green space. The pool does take a break every hour, but there's a concession stand that accepts credit cards, so you can grab a snack while you wait.
For those who enjoy a bit of socializing, the campground has a friendly vibe. Visitors have noted that it's a very social place, but it quiets down nicely after dark, making it perfect for a peaceful evening under the stars. The sites at Poplar Grove are particularly praised for their spaciousness and the variety of activities available, including a beach area that's great for a summer day.
If you're into hiking, there are some nature trails to explore, though the options are somewhat limited. However, the nearby Cataract Falls and Cagles Mill Lake offer beautiful scenery and additional activities like boating and fishing. The lake is a popular spot for pleasure boating and sport fishing, adding another layer of fun to your stay.
Amenities include electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and toilets. Pets are welcome, and there's a camp store for basic supplies, though it has a limited selection. Firewood is available, and campfires are allowed, so you can enjoy a classic camping experience.
Overall, Lieber State Recreation Area is a fantastic spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you're here for the pool, the trails, or just to unwind, you're in for a good time.
$16 - $32 / night
Hardin Ridge is a 1,200-acre recreational complex located on the shores of Monroe Reservoir in Hooiser National Forest. The complex includes six shady campground loops, two picnic areas with shelters, and two rental cabins. The area offers something for everyone, with activities like camping, picnicking, boat launching, swimming, nature walks, and interpretive programs offered in a forested environment.
A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp.
A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp.
Monroe Reservoir spans 10,750-acres and is the largest lake in Indiana. There is an overlook on Hardin Ridge Road that is spectacular in any season and gives visitors a high vantage point of the lake, colorful marinas across the water and a vast expanse of forest. The entire area is forested with hardwoods and is well-shaded to give visitors the feel of being in the deep woods. In spring, the dogwoods and redbuds bring bright color to the forest and in fall, the foliage offers colors in vibrant hues of yellow, orange and red.
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin____ Buffalo Trace____ Carnes Mill Site____ Clover Lick Barrens____ Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower____ Initial Point____ Lick Creek African American Settlement____ The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead____ Wesley Chapel Gulf__
$50 - $55 / night
Welcome to Taylor Ridge Campground, nestled in the heart of Brown County State Park, Indiana's crown jewel. This place is a camper's paradise, offering a mix of tent and RV sites, all set in a beautifully wooded area. The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities.
One of the standout features here is the availability of electric hookups, making it a great spot for RV campers. You'll also find drinking water stations conveniently located throughout the campground. The bathhouses are clean and well-kept, with ample stalls and showers to keep you comfortable during your stay.
Visitors rave about the variety of activities available. You can hike the numerous trails, some of which are perfect for mountain biking. If you're into horseback riding, there's a huge horseman's camp nearby that's always bustling. For those who enjoy a bit of fishing, the park boasts two lakes where you can cast a line. And if you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the swimming pool.
The campground itself is divided into several loops, including Taylor Ridge, Buffalo Ridge, and Raccoon Ridge. Each offers a unique experience. Taylor Ridge is heavily wooded and offers a bit more privacy, while Buffalo Ridge is more open and grassy, making it ideal for families with kids who want to play. Raccoon Ridge is perfect for tent campers looking for a more rustic experience.
One thing to note: the roads can be a bit tricky to navigate, so keep your map handy. But once you're settled in, you'll find the sites are spacious and quiet, perfect for a relaxing getaway. And if you need a break from nature, the charming town of Nashville is just a short drive away, offering quaint shops and restaurants.
So pack your gear and head to Taylor Ridge Campground for a memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you're here for the hiking, the horseback riding, or just to soak in the natural beauty, you won't be disappointed.
Shakamak State Park, near Jasonville, Indiana, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. This place has it all: shaded, flat campsites that make setting up a breeze, and plenty of space for both tents and RVs. Whether you're into hiking, biking, fishing, or just lounging by the lake, there's something here for everyone.
The park boasts three large lakes perfect for fishing, kayaking, or paddle boating. The trails are well-maintained and cater to all skill levels, with Trail 3 being a favorite among visitors. If you're into bird watching, you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
One of the standout features is the clean and modern shower house, which even has a new one recently built. Wi-Fi is available, though it might be a bit spotty depending on your carrier. Verizon users, for instance, might find the connection limited but still manageable for basic tasks like checking emails.
The campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. There are also electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations available, making it convenient for longer stays. If you need supplies, there's a market on-site, and firewood is available for those cozy campfire nights.
The staff here are friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any questions or needs you might have. The park is open all year round, so whether you're planning a summer getaway or a quiet winter retreat, Shakamak State Park is a fantastic choice.
Native forest and large rock outcrops line the upper part of Big Raccoon Creek. Cecil M. Harden Lake resulted from the damming of the creek for flood control. Raccoon Lake Camping also provides recreation, wildlife management and economic benefits. A variety of fish, flora and fauna can be viewed at the property.
Nearby Historic Mansfield Roller Mill is a preserved, working example of industrialization in Indiana at the turn of the 20th century. This 1880s flour mill uses machinery from that time to show visitors how flour and cornmeal were processed from wheat and corn. It is an almost complete and unchanged example of flour mills from this time period.
Camping:
-Electric / 240 sites
-Non-electric / 37 sites
-Primitive / 35 sites
-Youth Tent Areas
-Camp Store
-Dumping Station
As Indiana’s second state park, Turkey Run Campground was established in 1916. The story behind its name suggests that local hunters would find herds of wild turkeys gathering in the area’s narrow canyon bottoms—called “runs”—and funnel them out for easy harvesting. The area’s natural history goes back a little father—upwards of 600 million years. It was around this time that the sandstone and coal deposits seen in the park were being formed and compacted in a vast, swampy plain. Fast-forward several million years, and Ice Age meltwaters cut and scoured the creeks, canyons, and potholes seen today. Some of the glacial erratics (boulders) seen in the park are actually pieces of bedrock that were transported from as far north as Canada. Visitors to Turkey Run can explore these unique canyons, enjoy the park’s natural scenery, fish and paddle in Sugar Creek, and see several historic sites.
Located 10 miles north of Rockville, and 70 miles west of Indianapolis, Turkey Run State Park is year-round nature and recreation area covering nearly 2,400 acres along Sugar Creek. The campground at Turkey Run features more than 200 tent and RV sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables and fire pits with cooking grills; some sites are ADA accessible. Most sites are back-in and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 45 feet; a few pull-throughs can accommodate larger. All sites have access to drinking water, flush and vault restrooms, and showers; two dump stations are available onsite. There are also two primitive tent camping areas for youth groups, several cabins for rent, and the historic Turkey Run Inn, which offers 61 lodge rooms, a dining room, and meeting spaces. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Campsites raters are $23–$33/night; other accommodations range from $67–$110/night; reservations accepted.
Besides exploring Turkey Run’s canyon runs, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports courts. The park’s nature center showcases a variety of exhibits and interactive activities to educate visitors about the park’s geology, flora and fauna. Park naturalists offer guided hikes and nature walks, animal talks and campfire programs. Swimming is not permitted in Sugar Creek, but anglers can fish for bass and bluegill, and paddlers can head out in canoes and kayaks. Swimmers are invited to enjoy the park’s Olympic-sized swimming pool for cooling off during the warmer months. The park also offers hayrides and guided horseback rides. For a blast from the past, visitors can also tour the historic Lusk Home. Built in 1841, this restored European home displays a lifestyle from a bygone era. Watch out for the resident raccoons.
Welcome to Buffalo Ridge Campground in Brown County State Park, Indiana's largest and arguably most stunning state park. This campground is a gem for those who love the great outdoors and want to immerse themselves in nature.
Buffalo Ridge offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations, making it a versatile spot for all types of campers. The campground is known for its peaceful wooded surroundings, providing a serene backdrop for your stay. The sites vary in size and levelness, so it's a good idea to check the specifics of your site before setting up camp.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of hiking trails. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, you'll find trails that wind through ridgelines and ravines, offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills of southern Indiana. Horseback riding is also a popular activity, with trails that cater to equestrians.
The campground is equipped with essential amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, showers, and clean toilets. However, keep in mind that there are no sanitary dump stations or propane fill services available on-site. Generators are also not allowed, so plan accordingly.
Visitors have praised the park's well-maintained bathhouses and the convenience of water fill stations scattered throughout the area. The nearby town of Nashville is a charming spot to explore, offering additional activities and dining options.
Overall, Buffalo Ridge Campground provides a fantastic base for exploring Brown County State Park. Whether you're here for the hiking, the horseback riding, or just to relax in a beautiful natural setting, you're in for a memorable experience.
Yellowwood State Forest is a gem tucked away in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, just a short drive from the artist haven of Nashville. This place is perfect for those who love a mix of primitive camping and outdoor activities. With 79 campsites spread across four areas—Red Pine, White-Oak Hickory, Redbud, and Black Gum—there's plenty of space to find your own little slice of nature.
The campsites are basic but well-maintained, featuring picnic tables and fire rings. Vault toilets are available, and there are several potable water stations scattered throughout. If you're into fishing, you'll love the short trails from many campsites leading right to the lake's edge. Night fishing by a cozy campfire? Yes, please.
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the forest offers five hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged. You can also rent john boats and kayaks on the weekends, making it easy to explore Yellowwood Lake. Just a heads-up, the camp store and forest office are closed during the week, so plan accordingly.
Pets are welcome, and the area is big rig friendly, though some visitors have noted that maneuvering larger trailers can be a bit tight. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is cash-only, so come prepared.
Whether you're here for the hiking, fishing, or just to escape the hustle and bustle, Yellowwood State Forest offers a peaceful and secluded retreat. The beautiful scenery, from the lush woodlands to the serene lake, makes it a fantastic spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Located 6 miles south of Bloomington and the IU campus, Monroe Lake is the largest in Indiana. Paynetown Campground is a recreation area that is part of Monroe Lake. Activities at Monroe include fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, picnicking, water recreation, bird/eagle viewing, and many others.
$16 - $30 / night
Welcome to Lieber State Recreation Area, a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and activities. Nestled near Cloverdale, IN, this campground offers a great escape with plenty to keep you busy. The campground is open year-round and caters to both tent and RV campers, making it a versatile spot for all kinds of adventurers.
One of the standout features here is the large pool, complete with a slide and an attached playground. It's a hit with families, especially since the pool area includes a sand-filled soccer pitch and green space. The pool does take a break every hour, but there's a concession stand that accepts credit cards, so you can grab a snack while you wait.
For those who enjoy a bit of socializing, the campground has a friendly vibe. Visitors have noted that it's a very social place, but it quiets down nicely after dark, making it perfect for a peaceful evening under the stars. The sites at Poplar Grove are particularly praised for their spaciousness and the variety of activities available, including a beach area that's great for a summer day.
If you're into hiking, there are some nature trails to explore, though the options are somewhat limited. However, the nearby Cataract Falls and Cagles Mill Lake offer beautiful scenery and additional activities like boating and fishing. The lake is a popular spot for pleasure boating and sport fishing, adding another layer of fun to your stay.
Amenities include electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and toilets. Pets are welcome, and there's a camp store for basic supplies, though it has a limited selection. Firewood is available, and campfires are allowed, so you can enjoy a classic camping experience.
Overall, Lieber State Recreation Area is a fantastic spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you're here for the pool, the trails, or just to unwind, you're in for a good time.
$16 - $32 / night
Hardin Ridge is a 1,200-acre recreational complex located on the shores of Monroe Reservoir in Hooiser National Forest. The complex includes six shady campground loops, two picnic areas with shelters, and two rental cabins. The area offers something for everyone, with activities like camping, picnicking, boat launching, swimming, nature walks, and interpretive programs offered in a forested environment.
A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp.
A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp.
Monroe Reservoir spans 10,750-acres and is the largest lake in Indiana. There is an overlook on Hardin Ridge Road that is spectacular in any season and gives visitors a high vantage point of the lake, colorful marinas across the water and a vast expanse of forest. The entire area is forested with hardwoods and is well-shaded to give visitors the feel of being in the deep woods. In spring, the dogwoods and redbuds bring bright color to the forest and in fall, the foliage offers colors in vibrant hues of yellow, orange and red.
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin____ Buffalo Trace____ Carnes Mill Site____ Clover Lick Barrens____ Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower____ Initial Point____ Lick Creek African American Settlement____ The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead____ Wesley Chapel Gulf__
$50 - $55 / night
Shakamak State Park, near Jasonville, Indiana, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. This place has it all: shaded, flat campsites that make setting up a breeze, and plenty of space for both tents and RVs. Whether you're into hiking, biking, fishing, or just lounging by the lake, there's something here for everyone.
The park boasts three large lakes perfect for fishing, kayaking, or paddle boating. The trails are well-maintained and cater to all skill levels, with Trail 3 being a favorite among visitors. If you're into bird watching, you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
One of the standout features is the clean and modern shower house, which even has a new one recently built. Wi-Fi is available, though it might be a bit spotty depending on your carrier. Verizon users, for instance, might find the connection limited but still manageable for basic tasks like checking emails.
The campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. There are also electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations available, making it convenient for longer stays. If you need supplies, there's a market on-site, and firewood is available for those cozy campfire nights.
The staff here are friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any questions or needs you might have. The park is open all year round, so whether you're planning a summer getaway or a quiet winter retreat, Shakamak State Park is a fantastic choice.
Native forest and large rock outcrops line the upper part of Big Raccoon Creek. Cecil M. Harden Lake resulted from the damming of the creek for flood control. Raccoon Lake Camping also provides recreation, wildlife management and economic benefits. A variety of fish, flora and fauna can be viewed at the property.
Nearby Historic Mansfield Roller Mill is a preserved, working example of industrialization in Indiana at the turn of the 20th century. This 1880s flour mill uses machinery from that time to show visitors how flour and cornmeal were processed from wheat and corn. It is an almost complete and unchanged example of flour mills from this time period.
Camping:
-Electric / 240 sites
-Non-electric / 37 sites
-Primitive / 35 sites
-Youth Tent Areas
-Camp Store
-Dumping Station
As Indiana’s second state park, Turkey Run Campground was established in 1916. The story behind its name suggests that local hunters would find herds of wild turkeys gathering in the area’s narrow canyon bottoms—called “runs”—and funnel them out for easy harvesting. The area’s natural history goes back a little father—upwards of 600 million years. It was around this time that the sandstone and coal deposits seen in the park were being formed and compacted in a vast, swampy plain. Fast-forward several million years, and Ice Age meltwaters cut and scoured the creeks, canyons, and potholes seen today. Some of the glacial erratics (boulders) seen in the park are actually pieces of bedrock that were transported from as far north as Canada. Visitors to Turkey Run can explore these unique canyons, enjoy the park’s natural scenery, fish and paddle in Sugar Creek, and see several historic sites.
Located 10 miles north of Rockville, and 70 miles west of Indianapolis, Turkey Run State Park is year-round nature and recreation area covering nearly 2,400 acres along Sugar Creek. The campground at Turkey Run features more than 200 tent and RV sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables and fire pits with cooking grills; some sites are ADA accessible. Most sites are back-in and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 45 feet; a few pull-throughs can accommodate larger. All sites have access to drinking water, flush and vault restrooms, and showers; two dump stations are available onsite. There are also two primitive tent camping areas for youth groups, several cabins for rent, and the historic Turkey Run Inn, which offers 61 lodge rooms, a dining room, and meeting spaces. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Campsites raters are $23–$33/night; other accommodations range from $67–$110/night; reservations accepted.
Besides exploring Turkey Run’s canyon runs, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports courts. The park’s nature center showcases a variety of exhibits and interactive activities to educate visitors about the park’s geology, flora and fauna. Park naturalists offer guided hikes and nature walks, animal talks and campfire programs. Swimming is not permitted in Sugar Creek, but anglers can fish for bass and bluegill, and paddlers can head out in canoes and kayaks. Swimmers are invited to enjoy the park’s Olympic-sized swimming pool for cooling off during the warmer months. The park also offers hayrides and guided horseback rides. For a blast from the past, visitors can also tour the historic Lusk Home. Built in 1841, this restored European home displays a lifestyle from a bygone era. Watch out for the resident raccoons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Spencer, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Spencer, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 110 campgrounds and RV parks near Spencer, IN and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Spencer, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Spencer, IN is Paynetown Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Spencer, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Spencer, IN.
What parks are near Spencer, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Spencer, IN that allow camping, notably Hoosier National Forest and Lake Shelbyville.
