Campgrounds near Bainbridge, Indiana offer diverse terrain on the western edge of the Hoosier National Forest, with elevations ranging from 600 to 800 feet above sea level. The area receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush camping conditions from April through October. Most campgrounds maintain moderate to challenging hiking trails that connect to nearby waterways.
What to do
Hiking at Turkey Run: Turkey Run State Park features eleven distinct hiking trails ranging from easy to very rugged. The park's unique sandstone ravines and box canyons create 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," notes a visitor to Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Fishing at Rockville Lake: The county park maintains a stocked fishing lake with a dedicated fish cleaning station. "The fishing was pretty good too!" reports a camper at Rockville Lake County Park. Anglers should bring their own gear, as rental equipment is limited.
Disc golf at multiple parks: Several campgrounds maintain full 18-hole courses through wooded areas. "Disc golf course is awesome, in the woods, up and down ravine. 18 holes plus practice basket. Hole 1 starts by primitive sites closer to beach. Ask for a disc golf map at gatehouse," advises a Rockville Lake visitor.
Water recreation on Sugar Creek: Tubing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities abound on Sugar Creek, which flows through several camping areas. "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows. And definitely take time to float or kayak down the river," reports a camper at Sugar Creek Campground.
What campers like
Natural features and hiking: The unique geology creates memorable camping experiences. "This a work in progress, but once they're up & running, it's going to be an excellent spot to be," notes a visitor to Cloverdale RV Park. Many campers appreciate the distinctive rock formations and ravines.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked lakes and natural waterways provide excellent fishing. "The campground is very well maintained great fishing and only 15 minutes from Turkey Run," reports a Rockville Lake visitor. Most campgrounds allow fishing with proper licenses.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain modern restrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were okay. They were older but seemed to be fairly well maintained," notes a Turkey Run visitor. Cecil M Harden Lake maintains "very clean" facilities according to multiple reviewers.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreational areas keep children engaged. "There are three playgrounds for kids," notes a Rockville Lake visitor. Many campgrounds offer scheduled weekend activities during summer months.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain with uneven sites. "Choose your site carefully! Whitetail Loop has the showers & toilets. We did a drive thru & most all the sites looked very nice," advises a visitor to Shades State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though some remain open year-round. "This is a primitive state park near Turkey Run State Park in Midwestern Indiana. First named The Shades Of Death State Park," explains a Shades visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for raccoons and other wildlife, especially at night. "Pack your food up right," warns a Cecil M Harden Lake visitor. Several campgrounds report active raccoon populations.
Reservation requirements: Peak season weekends often fill completely. "Full hookup sites are very limited with minimal shade. Remainder of campground is nearly always shaded," notes a Rockville Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Several parks maintain multiple play areas. "There is a playground located in middle of loop and accessible/visible from any of sites on loop area," notes a Rockville Lake visitor.
Swimming options: Beach areas provide supervised swimming at select locations. "This place is so beautiful! We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect. Lots of wildlife," reports a visitor to Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized recreation programs operate at larger campgrounds. "I loved this campground, there was a beach which was nice and a building to get food. They have a basketball court, and a few trails," shares a Cecil M Harden Lake visitor.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers offer scheduled programs. "The gatehouse is your only source of information. There's no nature center or visitor center. Get a park map!" advises a Shades visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV parks near Bainbridge, Indiana feature uneven terrain. "The sites in modern electric water only can be awkward to back into with no room to pull forward due to a ditch in some areas," warns a Rockville Lake visitor.
Hookup placement: Water and electric connections may require extensions. "Sharing of water and electric between two sites, so come prepared with extensions for water and electric," advises a Rockville Lake camper.
Navigational considerations: Some rv parks in Bainbridge area have tight entrance roads. "Easy to get to, however some of the worst roads I have been on," notes a Rockville Lake visitor.
Seasonal availability: The Crawfordsville KOA operates year-round with full hookups. "Great spot for an overnight stop. Host was super friendly and helpful. We had to switch dates last minute and they were super flexible," reports a KOA visitor.
