Campgrounds near Avon, Indiana primarily serve campers seeking weekend escapes within a 30-mile radius of suburban Indianapolis. The relatively flat terrain allows for easy site access but offers limited natural elevation changes for hiking. Summer humidity levels regularly exceed 70% from June through August, creating muggy conditions that compound the heat. Most area campgrounds maintain open layouts with limited privacy between sites.
What to do
Water recreation options: At Lieber State Recreation Area Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming either at the lake or pool. "Skip the lake and enjoy the pool," suggests one camper, while another mentions it's "Very flat and ideal for bike riding."
Outdoor activities beyond hiking: The area's campgrounds offer alternatives to traditional hiking. "We rented a canoe from a canoe place right down the road from the campground. It was great and once we saw the crowds at the beach area of the park on Saturday afternoon, we were super glad we had been canoeing all day instead," shares a visitor to Turkey Run State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Several campsites near Avon provide fishing access. The campgrounds at Indy Lakes are centered around small fishing ponds, though one camper notes: "The 'lakes' are more like ponds but you have to stay away so the anglers get the water."
What campers like
Proximity to Indianapolis attractions: Lake Haven Retreat offers convenient access to downtown. "This campground is minutes away from Luca Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. For an urban campground, it is better than others," notes one reviewer. Another adds, "We attended a wedding at the Scottish Cathedral in the center of downtown Indy and from the campground, it was a nice drive into the city off the interstate that only took about 20 min."
Reliable utilities: Many campsites in the Avon area feature dependable electrical hookups. At Lake Haven Retreat, a camper reports, "We had 50amp service and measured 119vac with both a/c units running." Another visitor appreciates "Excellent WiFi and facilities. Family owned 20 years."
Communal amenities: Several campgrounds offer shared facilities. At Lake Haven Retreat, "Campsites don't have fire rings but there are a bunch of communal ones around the lake. Plus free communal firewood. The laundry and bathhouse is really stellar too. Clean and open 24/7."
What you should know
Site layout considerations: Indianapolis KOA and other area campgrounds have varied site types. "The lot was spacious but had a big hill, which made sitting in chairs around a camp fire interesting," notes one tent camper. At Lieber State Recreation Area, "Although our campsite was large, there was absolutely no privacy. It was as if we were camping in a field."
Booking recommendations: Weekday visits offer a better experience. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning / early afternoon," advises a Turkey Run visitor.
Pet policies: Most campgrounds around Avon welcome pets with restrictions. At Lake Haven Retreat, a reviewer observed: "Lots of full timers with little dogs that bark non stop. We have large dogs that would get riled up by the small dogs barking. Clearly no one cared about barking though."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Indianapolis KOA provides child-friendly water options. "The splash pad / water park was fun, but was not a pool. It only goes to 3 feet so if you want to swim this is not for you. The water was cold but my kiddos finally got in and had fun on the slides."
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds offer livestock viewing. At Indianapolis KOA, families enjoy "visiting with Fred and Rain, the friendly onsite horses who are always ready for head rubs and snacks."
Activity balance: Turkey Run State Park Campground provides a good mix of structured and unstructured activities. "The balance between kid fun and peaceful nature is actually on point here. It was beautiful and peaceful but still a blast for kids with the water, playground, and even horses to view (not for riding)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Turkey Run State Park Campground, experienced RVers recommend specific areas. "The open, grassy area sites don't offer any privacy. If that's what you're looking for, try to get a wooded site on the outsides that back up to woods." Another notes their site "was very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end."
Urban camping considerations: For those needing to stay near the city, Indiana State Fairgrounds Campground provides basic accommodations. "Nothing special about this campground. Is there when you need it for an event. The one plus is that it is easy to go in, pick a spot and set up." Another RVer notes: "The area was OVERLY well lit, to the point we were hanging sleeping bags over the windows to try and make it somewhat dark inside the camper!"
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds cater to longer-term visitors. At Indy Lakes Campground, "We have been here for 6 months and it has been amazing! Clean, friendly staff, and safe!"
