Best Camping in Indiana

From the sandy bluffs and hundreds of lakes in the north to the limestone caverns in the south, Indiana’s parks are popular with outdoor lovers. In a state defined by its love for automobiles, peaceful afternoons on the river and hundreds of miles of remote hiking are just a short trip away. You don’t have to look far to find your getaway, so come and discover camping in Indiana!

With over 30 state parks and a national forest, it’s not hard to find the perfect place to spend the night. Campers love finding the best place to visit in the fall for the perfect autumn colors, and tranquil summer evenings are a great time to get family together outside for a weekend away.

Find your escape on Indiana’s White River, which meanders for over 200 miles through sandstone bluffs that rise from the river banks. Excellent fishing opportunities and an abundance of wildlife make the White River a hit with locals and tourists alike. With over 12 unique sections of the river to explore, it’s a perfect excuse to call in from work and go camping in Indiana.

Nature lovers camping in Indiana will love the bird watching and serene landscapes of Indiana’s riverways. Call ahead and get set up with an outfitter to guide you through the best fishing holes in the river. Adventure lovers might prefer heading out on their own, thanks to a detailed river guide available online.

Indiana’s Knobstone Trail is a must for hikers and backpackers. Link up with the Tecumseh Trail in the north and the 140-mile trail puts to rest the myths that the state is all-flat. Start within a stone’s throw of Louisville for a hike that winds through hardwood forests, tree-top panoramas, and Southern Indiana’s unglaciated and surprisingly hilly terrain.

Trying to escape the summer heat? Head south to the limestone region–famous for its hidden caverns–and go camping at Hoosier National Forest. Spend your days off hiking and horseback riding in the park’s 200,000+ acres. With the Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Indiana no matter where the roads take you.

Best Camping Sites in Indiana (409)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    121 Reviews
    320 Photos
    446 Saves
    Beverly Shores, Indiana

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.__

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead ) are located within its boundaries.______ The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.____ For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.__

    Nearby Attractions

    Located close to the campground is Lake View Beach on Lake Michigan which is located 1.5 miles north of the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. Do NOT park in the Town of Beverly Shores' beach parking lot, which is located just to the east of the Lake View lot. You will get ticketed. The town is very strict. A gas station / convenience store is located __ mile north of the campground at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue, __ mile north of the campground. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park

    2. Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park

    66 Reviews
    240 Photos
    371 Saves
    Marshall, Indiana

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    3. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    152 Photos
    160 Saves
    Albion, Indiana

    Nine connecting lakes will be the center of your adventures at Chain O’Lakes. This is lake country and a small boater’s paradise. Paddle through the chain of serene kettle lakes, hike the 23 miles of forested trails, fish the electric-motors-only lakes, stay overnight in a forested hillside family cabin, visit the park's historic one-room Stanley Schoolhouse, or explore the Nature Center. Other facilities available for visitors to enjoy include Chain O' Lakes Campground, beach and picnic shelters.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pokagon State Park Campground

    5. Pokagon State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    80 Photos
    184 Saves
    Angola, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    6. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    96 Photos
    655 Saves
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana

    Camping options: Dunbar Group Site and General Camping

    Dunbar Group: The Dunbar Group Site holds up to 30 people and is located less than 500 feet from the beach. The site overlooks the Great Marsh and Lake Michigan. Parking and restrooms are located in the Dunbar Beach parking lot, 400 feet from the site.

    Indiana Dunes consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful, historic, and unique Hoosier landscape. It lies at the north end of State Road 49 in Porter County and includes more than three miles of beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. In the early 1900s scientists, recreationists, and nature enthusiasts, recognizing the value and potential of the Indiana dunes area, fought to have the region preserved. As a result, in 1925, the state park was established.

    Large sand dunes, located beyond the entire shoreline, have taken thousands of years to form, and tower nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan. A wide range of habitats and plant species are found in the park, with vegetation stabilizing some of the sand. These habitats provide homes for many types of plants and animals. The lake also provides a habitat for many aquatic species, as well as a constantly changing fishery.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clifty Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground

    8. Patoka Lake Campground

    35 Reviews
    79 Photos
    165 Saves
    Birdseye, Indiana

    With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake campground is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR.

    Camping:

    -Electric / 455 sites

    -Primitive / 45 sites

    -Dumping Station

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harmonie State Park Campground

    9. Harmonie State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    99 Photos
    76 Saves
    New Harmony, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlestown State Park Campground

    10. Charlestown State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    145 Photos
    196 Saves
    Charlestown, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $7 - $30 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 409 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in Indiana

Recent Reviews In Indiana

2332 Reviews of 409 Indiana Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache Trails County Park
    October 8, 2024

    Ouabache Trails County Park

    2 night stay

    We stayed here 2 nights. We came to see the George Rogers Clark National Monument. Campground was nice. Several full time campers living here. Staff was friendly. Was a little noisy on the weekend. Shower house was very clean.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkhart County Fairgrounds
    October 6, 2024

    Elkhart County Fairgrounds

    Worked for What We Needed

    You use Gate 2 to get to the registration office. Check-in was quick and we proceeded to back-in site 444 with FHUs. Our back-in should have been smooth but we were out of practice. The utilities are at the far end of the sites. In most areas, the sites back up to each other and share a utility post(separate outlets for each site) and share the water spigot. As we had come out of the Brinkley Service Center, we did not need to dump. If we had hooked up sewer, we would have needed about 25’ of hose to reach a hole in the ground(no screw in adapter). Water pressure was okay depending on if both rigs are pulling water. They have wifi(4H Public) that was pretty good but there were not many rigs in the fairgrounds. We have 4 bars on Verizon. If you are allergic to train noise, this is not your place as trains run all day, all night, at regular intervals, and the tracks are adjacent to the FHU campground(CG) areas. Sites are quite close together but far enough that you can get your awnings out. As this CG was near the Brinkley Service Center and they had to come back out to us to finish repairs, this place worked for us. We would stay here again if we come back for service center work. They are very flexible with cancellations/reservation changes as they realize the majority of people are here for RV service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
    October 5, 2024

    Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Safe and comfortable campground

    Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839
    October 4, 2024

    Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839

    Last minute

    Rest stops leading up to this RV spot were under construction. This was a last minute decision. It was late and I didn’t want to drive in the dark anymore. The price is HIGH. With discounts for goodsam and loves connect it was $50/night for 30 amp. The dog park at this loves is very nice and the spaces are okay. But it’s loud all night because it’s a truck stop. I like the idea of this for loves but the price needs to reflect it. $25/night. No one is staying longer than that and it’s a better deal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
    October 4, 2024

    Prairie Creek

    Prairie creek

    Men's and women's shower house playground few trails rv tent and camper electric a few primitive sites 2 sites r 50 Amp I think the rest r 30 Amp water gets wonderfully hot Verizon works can have door dash and amazon delivered

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park
    September 26, 2024

    Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    Very nice!

     Lincoln State Park in Southern Indiana. About as far South as you can go! (In Indiana!). We did a weekend visit.

      150 electric sites. There's 30 & 50 Amp sites with water at each site!

    6 handicap sites. There are NO pull through sites. 

     The best sites are by Lake Lincoln- 40 & 41. 39 is ok, but all 3 of these sites are in the sun most of the day. Also, 40 & 41 are not ON the lake. Trail 1 & a wide grassy area are before the water. The only advantage IMO is an unobstructed view of the water & a short walk to the lake. 

    The sites seemed short, but people were able to park very large rigs in them. Check the site dimensions before booking or call the office to make sure you'll fit. 

      There's a large primitive campground. They have a modern bath house with showers. Some cabins.

      There's 2 bath houses in the electric side with flush toilets & showers. Very clean for a state park! 

      A double dump station. 

    6 trails from easy to moderate. The longest is 3.7 miles. 

      Boating & fishing are popular, but electric motor only. There's boat rental. 

      There's a beach, but closed after Labor Day. The camp store is in the pavilion by the beach & has limited hours after Labor Day. 

      There's a small nature center. 

     Lots of history in the park & in the area. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is directly across the road from the state park

     . Santa Claus Indiana& Holiday World are nearby.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkhart County Fairgrounds
    September 25, 2024

    Elkhart County Fairgrounds

    Area Convenient and Clean

    Elkhart County 4-h Fairgrounds: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 for access to the area, very clean facilities, and not too many campers thus time of year.
    Price 2024: $35 for water/electric only. Security: No Usage during visit: Very light Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: none Site Spacing: very close Pad surface: our area was grass Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet except for one day of motorcycle raises at the nearby track.
    Outside Road Noise: Not most sites Through Traffic in campground: Some for activities at the fairground Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: some sites Dump Station: yes Potable Water Available: At sites Bathroom: Very nice flush toilets Showers: yes Pull Throughs: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): Varied throughout campground Setting: open grass fields around very well manicured county fairground. Recent Weather: 70s and rain. Insects:None Host: I am not sure.
    Rig Size: Large Sites: full hookups and water/electric only

  • Camper-submitted photo from hickory ridge
    September 21, 2024

    hickory ridge

    Secluded horse camp

    It’s a horse camp but we were able to camp here. There were also two vehicle campers across the way. It was peaceful. It was a ways down a winding gravel road, maybe 20 minutes on that road.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lynnville Park
    September 21, 2024

    Lynnville Park

    Great little municipal park

    Registration was easy on the town website. My camping spot was right on the lake and it was beautiful. I would definitely camp here again. There was some road noise, but that's to be expected due to being close to a highway and it wasn't too much for me. I slept just fine.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Norway Campground
    September 21, 2024

    Norway Campground

    In my opinion deceptive

    The"real" owner said in a recent meeting that he's flipping the place. He said the sewers were need of major repairs. Already raised the price appx$500. It's old out dated and the drunks are terrible. I think the place and"new? Owners and management" are NOT good people. I already reached out to y several times and I was there to relax not do your work. Maybe spend as much time in the place as the previous owner did and still does. Maybe owning and/or managing a campground is just not for you. I hope my review helps motivate you into becoming a better person owner and/or manager whichever one or all you are. Best of luck but my rating is one and if I could give a zero I would

  • Camper-submitted photo from France Park
    September 20, 2024

    France Park

    Great place for the whole family to camp at !

    Hit a little rough patch in life and needed a break from sleeping in the car and hotels . All the staff at the park were very friendly and understanding of our situation. At $20 a nite for tent site ,showers ,clean toilets ,whole park is very clean ! Lots of things to do here and the waterfall was our fav part ! Deff will be back when in the area . Our site was right down the Rd from the waterfall so had a great view !

  • Camper-submitted photo from White River Campground
    September 8, 2024

    White River Campground

    Great spot for camping

    We are here for just one night as we are headed back to Georgia. I used the Dyrt search and in this area I looked at this place and boy am I glad I did. I wish it were closer to home. We are next to the river and we are loving it. Beautiful sites and family friendly. Staff are great too.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Heartland Resort
    September 7, 2024

    Heartland Resort

    Staff were helpful

    This would most likely be a last resort for us.  Went to our campsite only to find someone else using it.  Not what you need after driving 400-500 miles.  Had to go back to the office and ultimately took a different site after dirty looks from the poachers.

    Then the staff told us there was music that night after we told them we just wanted a peaceful nights sleep so we moved to another site further away from the jam session. Whew a lot of work to be here.  Cannot recall being impresses with the bathrooms/showers.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Caboose Lake Campground
    September 5, 2024

    Caboose Lake Campground

    Worst place to stay at

    Highway is louder than you’d think. No good night rest had. People spy on you just to report you. Main office head woman will not work with you and just give you a flat no when you ask about a refund.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shipshewana Campground South Park
    September 4, 2024

    Shipshewana Campground South Park

    Okay Stay

    We took I-80 all the way to near Shipshewana where the roads took us about 7 miles into the campground (CG). Check-in was quick and easy because we had paid ahead online. We proceeded to pull through site 37 with FHUs. The utilities were in the center, which made it nice to dump our two black tanks in order to go to the Brinkley Service Center the next morning. Water pressure was good at about 50 psi. It was nice that the utilities were on the center of the pad. We got 4 bars on Verizon. If we wanted to put out satellite, we could have as there are not many trees in the central area to block the signal. We tried to sign into the free Wifi with no luck. The website wanted us to sign up for paid internet, which we did not do. The sites in the CG are for the most part very close together. We were here overnight to take our rig into Goshen for warranty work. Coming from the West, stay on I-80 to IN-13(exit 107) as it makes for an easier route than on the local roads versus following your GPS or Waze which may have you exit off in Elkhart. Check out the great selections at Yoder's Meat& Cheese just down the road. This CG was okay for an overnighter or short stay.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Weary Traveler
    August 29, 2024

    Weary Traveler

    Great for a quick stop

    This park is great for a one night stay while getting to your destination. Strong WiFi, complete hookups, all pull throughs and easy access!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dream Acres Campground
    August 26, 2024

    Dream Acres Campground

    Love this place

    I had a seasonal spot last year and I absolutely loved it! We went camping as much as we could(cause of work) owners and other campers are friendly. They do crafts and other things on almost every holiday

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shades State Park Campground
    August 26, 2024

    Shades State Park Campground

    Nice campground, but not perfect

    Stayed here recently and overall the trip was a 10, but as for the campground itself there are somethings that could definitely be better.

    First, for all intents and purposes the sites are not marked.  At some point years ago they stencil painted the numbers both on the concrete parking block and on the ground near the entry pad for each site, but obviously over time most of these are worn away.  It's very difficult to find your actual site, even during the day when it's not busy.  At night, or with a campground full of people - not a chance.   Even more perplexing is why it's still like this when it's so easy to fix.

    Second, on the back loop, where we were, almost every car we saw was going the wrong way around the loop.  I've never seen this before and wasn't just one car.  There is a sign at the start of the loop indicating it's one direction, so not sure why this happens.

    Third, they have a camp store at the entry to the family campground, but it was never open in the time we were there, which was Friday / Saturday / Sunday, during the summer, so not sure what the situation was.

    Fourth, while the campground does have functional flush bathroom and shower, they only have one, and the rest are pit toilets, so depending on how far your site is from the building, it could be a very long walk, especially at night.

    The front gate to the park did have covered firewood, but the hours of the gate operation were not clear.  The sites themselves were fine, but not particularly deep, and some are basically completely exposed to all the foot and vehicle traffic going to the toilets, the dumpsters, or just driving around, so basically zero privacy.

    We did drive into Crawfordsville, which took about 20 minutes, and it was very nice with a local college (Wabash) and plenty of retail options to restock, grab a cold beverage, or refill the tank before driving home. 

    Would I stay here again, yes 100%, but be prepared and plan ahead.  Would I recommend this to others?  Meh.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crawfordsville KOA
    August 26, 2024

    Crawfordsville KOA

    Nice KOA

    Shade, grass, and gravel sites. A lot better than most KOAs. They ask that you not put outdoor rugs on grass; no problem as grass is nice. Sites 1-10 are your best bet for Starlink if that’s what you have; best opening through tree canopy of the northern sky. Pet friendly; counted three cats and a dog in the office when I checked in. Was given the option of choosing my site out of the seven available for my reservation. A mix of long term residents and travelers; some of the long term resident sites were a little junky.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Follow The River RV Resort
    August 25, 2024

    Follow The River RV Resort

    Great campground

    We absolutely love this campground, very friendly staff and well kept and clean!! They are pet friendly and allow portable fences.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mar-Brook Camp Ground
    August 20, 2024

    Mar-Brook Camp Ground

    I have camped here on and off when I was a kid!

    Since my experience here growing up and having family get-a-ways, it’s always been my dream to live here!!



Guide to Indiana

Camping in Indiana offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Hoosier State.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Turkey Run State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, “Be prepared with hiking boots and sticks” for the moderate trails that can be challenging.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper noted, “The water was breathtaking and very calm even with all of the boat activity.”
  • Exploring Nature: Shades State Park Campground offers beautiful scenery. One visitor said, “The park is quite, shaded, rugged at times and the canyon/creek can be breathtaking.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Cecil M Harden Lake stated, “Bathhouse clean, plenty of showers, flush toilets.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds have roomy sites. One camper at Turkey Run State Park mentioned, “Large campground with spacious sites.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Prophetstown State Park are great for families. A reviewer said, “This park has it all. Multiple playgrounds for the kids, great hiking/biking trails.”

What you should know

  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. One visitor at Paynetown Campground noted, “This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend.”
  • Limited Privacy: Some sites are close together, which can affect privacy. A camper at Turkey Run State Park mentioned, “Many sites are in an open, level area without a lot of trees or bushes between them.”
  • Variable Amenities: Not all campgrounds have the same facilities. A review for Shades State Park pointed out, “The vault toilets were dirty, needed to be emptied.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Prophetstown State Park has multiple playgrounds and a water park, making it ideal for kids.
  • Plan for Crowds: If you want a quieter experience, try to camp during the week. A reviewer at Paynetown Campground suggested, “If you like a quieter experience come Monday through Wed.”
  • Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for added fun. One family at Summit Lake State Park enjoyed, “We took Kayaks and had a good time.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may have slopes that make parking tricky. A camper at Buffalo Ridge Campground warned, “Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility.”
  • Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Prophetstown State Park said, “Book early, as these sites go fast!”
  • Be Mindful of Rules: Some campgrounds have strict rules about vehicle limits. A camper at Summit Lake State Park expressed frustration with the host's reminders about car limits.

Camping in Indiana has its quirks, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time exploring the outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions