Best Glamping near Mount Carmel, IL

This is a huge state park! There are lots and lots of campsites in this state park bordering the Wabash River. Sites are divided into smallish areas some for tents, some for RVs and some mixed. Lots of trees for shade. Bathhouses in each area with showers and toilets. Very clean & well maintained. Some areas with children playgrounds. The park has multiple picnic areas and shelters. There are a couple of ponds. There is a boat launch at the Wabash River. There is a good size swimming pool (though closed at my visit for the pandemic). Park sells firewood for individual fire pits at each site. Electric hookups at most tent sites. Water spigots near each bathhouse.

This was our first time camping and I must say I absolutely loved our site. We were on a primitive site number 109. Though the ground was a little rocky the lake views were spectacular. There was a porto potty in walking distance. When we first arrived it was pretty clean but after the weekend it was really bad and ran out of toilet paper. But the bathroom facilities by the slide were great you just had to drive to it from the primitive sites. Water slide was a blast and loved the petting zoo, also the volleyball court was a fun addition too. Though a little close to the road. All in all we will definitely be staying there again.

Ranger Review: Primus at Harmonie State Park

I recently visited Harmonie State Park near New Harmony, In. https://indianastateparks.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=IN&parkId=570048 Just a heads up when camping in Indiana there is a fee to visit the State Parks. I always carry cash for that , laundry and in some states bathroom use. So, the number one thing that stuck out to me about this campground was the shade. For the most part it’s level (floodplain...I saw no standing water) And all the sites are nicely shaded (we are talking full growth) and good size. The sites are electric only, no water, no sewer. There are centrally located water hydrants and a dump station on the way out of the campground. The campground wasn’t very full when we visited, but there is a plethora of activities to enjoy. An Olympic size pool which back in the day my kids woulda loved. Hiking paths (very wide), one right by the campground and a connector trail to the mountain bike trail area. There’s also a bike section on the paved roads. You could spend a comfortable week here and not be bored.

Product Review: As a Dyrt Ranger I get to occasionally try out outdoor products while camping and this trip I brought along some Primus “kitchen gear” https://primus.us/ . Primus is known for its camping stoves , the kitchen accessories are pretty sweet too. I have the Trailsporks , a long spoon , a spatula for grilling , campfire plates and a campfire knife. These are very sturdy made accessories and pack in my kit without taking up a lot of space. There are a lot of options on the site to fit your packing needs too, from family fireside to fastpacking . I’m building my fireside kitchen kit .

What a gem of a park! From the stunning trails to the pristine lake, this place is a nature lover's paradise. The shower facilities are top-notch, ensuring a comfortable stay for all campers. One thing to note is the strict parking rule at camp sites, but don't worry, there's overflow parking available for visitors. It's enforced for everyone's safety and convenience. The highlight for many is the petting zoo—an absolute must-visit for campers of all ages. It's a fantastic experience that adds an extra layer of fun to your stay. While there's no on-site camp store, fret not! You're just a short drive away from a local dollar store and the famous Tastee Freeze. Trust me, their ice cream is out of this world, and the food is equally delightful. I highly recommend treating yourself to a visit. Overall, this park offers everything you need for a memorable camping experience. Can't wait to visit again!

Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr.

I drove through the RV park, it was okay. The main area had little shade, definitely go for the outer sites if you want some grass and shade. The showerhouse was centrally located next to the playground and there was a laundromat of sorts included.

Water sports and a bike/hike trail, so plenty to keep you occupued. The paved road that runs all the way through to the closed gate, is good for biking or jogging if you don't want to run the trail.

My favorite part was one; the handicap primitive site had a handicap accessible fishing deck and two; near that was McCool Point. A secluded primitive site with a stairway down to your own little boat tieoff. Sorta cool :)