Raccoon State Recreation Area offers multiple camping options near Bainbridge, Indiana, situated at an elevation of approximately 640 feet in the gently rolling hills of western Indiana. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping. Water recreation areas serve as focal points for most campgrounds in this area, with fishing and boating activities available from April through October.
What to do
**Hiking adventures: Trail exploration at Turkey Run State Park Campground ranges from moderate to challenging terrain. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," reports Samantha S.
**Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lakes provide year-round fishing. At Rockville Lake County Park, visitors note the excellent fishing facilities. "The fishing was pretty good too!" mentions Josh H., who appreciated the park's easy access to fishing spots and docks.
**Water recreation: Beyond swimming, consider tubing and kayaking options on Sugar Creek. "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows. And definitely take time to float or kayak down the river," suggests Gretchen G., highlighting the family-friendly water activities available in warmer months.
What campers like
**Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses with hot water are consistently mentioned as standout features. "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," notes Samantha S. about her experience at Turkey Run.
**Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping areas, especially in wooded sections. At Sugar Creek Campground, Amy Y. shares, "We stayed in an electric off creek site. It was very spacious and the campgrounds is well taken care of."
**Nature immersion: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region. "This place is so beautiful! We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect. Lots of wildlife, so pack your food up right," advises Stacey S., highlighting the nature-rich camping experience near Bainbridge.
What you should know
**Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (May-September). "We had site 94, which was right next to the bathhouse. It had almost a whole extra campsite's worth of space next to it for my kids to run around," notes Kaley A., who secured a prime location at Turkey Run by planning ahead.
**Wildlife awareness: Take proper food storage precautions to prevent unwanted visitors. "Raccoons will show up at night so pack up your snacks," warns Joe K. after his experience at Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental.
**Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal flooding that can affect campsite conditions. "Great place to camp, can be flooded at times, some of the sites have huge inclines or declines," mentions Dave R., providing important insight about seasonal variations at Cecil M Harden Lake.
Tips for camping with families
**Playground access: Select sites near recreational facilities for easier supervision. "Playground located in middle of loop and accessible/visible from any of sites on loop area," notes Carey R. about Rockville Lake County Park, making it convenient for families with children.
**Kid-friendly water areas: Shallow creek areas offer safer play options than lake swimming. "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows," mentions Gretchen G., describing the family-friendly water features at Sugar Creek.
**Activity planning: Structured recreation options keep children engaged throughout your stay. "I loved this camp ground, there was a beach which was nice and a building to get food. They have a basketball court, and a few trails," shares Staci J., highlighting the diverse activities available for families.
Tips from RVers
**Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Shakamak State Park Campground, one visitor had a different experience: "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park," notes Cynthia K., highlighting this unusual feature for RV campers.
**Hookup locations: Electric and water connections often require extension cords and hoses. "There is a few pull throughs, no water hook ups at site," mentions Dave R., providing important information for RV campers planning their setup.
**Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "Easy to get to, however some of the worst roads I have been on," cautions Pam M. about roads leading to certain camping areas, suggesting RVers scout their routes carefully.
