Best Tent Camping near Danville, IL
Western Indiana offers several tent camping options within an hour's drive of Danville, Illinois. Lake Waveland Park in Waveland, Indiana stands out as a popular destination for tent campers, with both primitive and modern sites available. The park operates seasonally from May 15 to October 15 and accommodates walk-in tent camping. Covered Bridge State Forest Retreat, located approximately 40 miles southwest of Danville, provides additional tent camping opportunities with walk-in access. Attica Family Campground, situated about 45 miles northwest of Danville, rounds out the regional tent camping options.
Primitive tent sites at Lake Waveland Park don't require reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers should arrive early, especially on weekends, as sites fill quickly. The primitive camping area is located past the shower house where the road bends left and downhill. Sites are not clearly marked but are identifiable by picnic tables and sometimes fire rings. The grounds are well-maintained with regularly mowed grass. Facilities include showers, restrooms, and drinking water, though some infrastructure may need updating. Most tent sites include picnic tables, and many have fire rings.
The tent camping experience at Lake Waveland Park offers considerable space and privacy. According to reviews, "Camp sites seem more spread out here compared to most state parks," making it ideal for tent campers seeking more room. The primitive sites are described as "very secluded and quiet" by frequent visitors. The park's location provides convenient access to nearby natural attractions, including Sugar Creek, Turkey Run State Park, and Shades State Park. Bird watching opportunities abound, with one camper noting, "This is a lovely space with lots of birds to observe." The lake offers fishing opportunities for tent campers looking to supplement their outdoor activities. While the park lacks hiking trails, the spacious grounds and peaceful atmosphere make it a solid backcountry tent camping alternative near Danville.