Salamonie River State Forest offers primitive camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts in northeast Indiana. The area sits within a mixed hardwood forest at approximately 800 feet elevation. The forest encompasses 850 acres of land with horse trails connecting to nearby Salamonie Lake, creating an integrated network of riding paths through diverse terrain.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Salamonie River State Forest provides extensive bridle paths that connect to Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area. The horse-friendly trails feature varied terrain through both wooded areas and open fields. According to Whitley K., "As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty."
Fishing opportunities: The nearby Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area offers excellent fishing access. Visitors can fish from shore or bring boats to explore Salamonie Lake. Kim K. notes that the area provides "Gorgeous lake sunrise/sunsets. Lots of eagle sightings! Plenty of deer."
Hiking and nature observation: The trail system includes multiple interconnected paths with varying difficulty levels. Caitlin W. describes the experience at Lost Bridge State Rec Area: "This is one of my first trails I went on that started my love for hiking. It's so short and simple but we loved it. There was so much to see."
What campers like
Affordable camping rates: The self-pay camping at Salamonie River State Forest costs $13 per night, making it an economical option for overnight stays. Amber P. confirms this, saying "Cheap, 13$ self pay. No electric or showers but do have bathroom. Very secluded luv it here."
Spacious campsites: The campground layout provides ample room between sites, particularly valuable for those camping with horses. Fern B. notes, "Small campground. 13$. No reservations, but sites seem readily available, even on weekends in the summer. Spacious sites. Fairly wooded."
Authentic outdoor experience: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers a complementary camping experience about 45 minutes northeast of Andrews. The park features multiple connected lakes ideal for paddling. One camper mentions, "There are a handful of paddle up camping spots that are very hard to reserve."
What you should know
Reservation system: Unlike some nearby parks, Salamonie River State Forest operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Ray J. appreciates this aspect, commenting "Primitive exactly what a person needs."
Limited amenities: The campground provides basic facilities including vault toilets but no showers or electric hookups. Water is available but campers should bring all supplies needed for their stay.
Firewood availability: Ouabache State Park Campground provides firewood for purchase, similar to Salamonie. Their facilities receive positive reviews: "The campsites are well cared for and the rest rooms and showers are well taken care of," notes Brad M.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest and surrounding areas provide excellent wildlife observation possibilities for children. At Ouabache State Park, Jacob A. recommends, "The bison enclosure is always fun to check out, and the last time we stayed I actually walked to the top of the restored fire tower to take in the view."
Water activities: Lost Bridge State Recreation Area offers a beach for swimming during summer months. Burns G. reports, "The beach was clean and fun. Not very busy when we were there, which was nice."
Seasonal considerations: Fall visits provide spectacular foliage viewing opportunities in the hardwood forests around Andrews. As Kim K. describes the area, "Leaves are beautiful in fall."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: RVers should note that while some electrical sites exist in the equestrian campgrounds near Andrews, full hookups are not available. Come prepared for more rustic camping conditions.
Weather preparedness: Some campsites in the region can become muddy or flood during heavy rains. Cynthia K. from Lost Bridge West advises, "Stay away from campsites 101 & 102 - these are right by the dump station."
Alternative RV camping: For RVers seeking more amenities, Ouabache State Park offers electrical hookups. Steve C. notes the "only draw back is no water and sewer hook up at the campsite," but the park does provide a dump station.
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