Cabin camping near Bedford, Indiana offers visitors a blend of forested terrain and lakeside views in south-central Indiana. The area sits within the Mitchell Karst Plain and features numerous limestone caves, spring-fed streams, and undulating hills. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.
What to do
Cave tours: A unique geological experience at Spring Mill State Park Campground where visitors can explore underground waterways. "This state park has a very large camp ground, campers or primitive. It's a large park with tons of trails and even several caves. Some caves are guided by boat. Very neat to see," shares Donald T.
Pioneer village exploration: Historical buildings and demonstrations provide glimpses into 19th-century life. "Spring Mill has a pioneer village for touring along with a visitor center honoring astronaut Virgil Gus Grissom," notes one visitor, while Rachel W. adds, "There is even an amazing pioneer village to explore where an original corn mill stands and you can buy freshly ground corn mill!"
Lake activities: Boating and fishing options at Hardin Ridge with varying water access points. "This campground is on the south side of Monroe lake and has beach access," reports Christine C. The recreation area includes "a small beach, boat launch, multiple small playgrounds, and an ampitheater," according to another camper.
Hiking through varied terrain: The Yellowwood State Forest trail system offers routes from easy to challenging. "The park has 5 hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged and access to the Tecumesh Trail (43 miles) originally proposed to span from Florida to Canada," notes a visitor. Another camper adds, "We hiked 10 miles throughout the park, which was clean and pretty."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded cabin sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Free Spirit Campground. "We got an amazing shady and level spot, there was a fire pit, picnic table, and water. Very peaceful and quiet," reports Aubrey.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers are consistently mentioned. At Hoosier National Forest Pine Loop Campground, campers find "quite, spacious, lots of shade. Plenty of bathrooms and they are super clean!" according to Todd.
Lake views from cabins: Waterfront cabin options provide direct lake access. "All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," notes Martin M. about Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Family-friendly amenities: Water features for children at Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe enhance family cabin stays. "We came here in 2017 with a group of friends and camped in the primitive camping area. It was an awesome set up and we had a great time. We went around Halloween time so the kids participated in a costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, and trick or treat," shares Ryan G.
What you should know
Cabin sizes vary significantly: From rustic to full-service, cabins accommodate different group sizes. At Pine Loop campground, "some spots are bigger than others, but they're all big enough for at least two," shares a reviewer.
Seasonal availability impacts pricing: Many cabins close during winter months. At Starve Hollow, cabins operate March-November with restricted availability during peak summer weekends.
Reservation requirements differ: Some properties require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Yellowwood State Forest, "Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change (cash)," advises Daisy C.
Terrain challenges: Some cabin and camping areas feature sloped terrain. One visitor noted: "The site we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Schedule morning swims when beaches are less crowded. "Starve Hollow Lake has three boat ramps to choose from, one at the dam and two in the electric campground. Kayak, rowboat and canoe rental is available," reports a visitor.
Educational programs: Check schedule upon arrival for ranger-led activities. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there," shares a camper about Spring Mill.
Special events: Plan around seasonal festivities for enhanced experiences. At Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe, "It is definitely for kids. They have a huge splash park, wading pool for toddlers, and a 4 foot pool besides tons of interactive activities for kids," notes Pamela H.
Multiple playgrounds: Scattered throughout recreation areas providing activity options. "A wheelchair accessible playground, basketball goals, softball fields, horseshoe pits and a sand volleyball court are located on or near the swimming beach," reports a camper about Starve Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for cabin proximity: Choose camping sites near cabin-staying friends for group trips. At Lake Monroe Village, "We keep our camper here full-time. Close to Lake Monroe. Nice pool. Great people," shares Gary K.
Leveling challenges: Some areas require significant leveling equipment. "I had to nearly lower my tongue to the ground to get it level," explains Joe M. about their experience at Yogi Bears.
Hookup considerations: Services may be positioned awkwardly at some sites. One camper noted, "Whereas power and water were reasonably placed, the sewer was setup in a manner that waste water had to flow uphill."
Size restrictions: Many cabin areas have limited space for large RVs. "This park is perfect for tent camping or smaller units; we would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel and may challenge your maneuvering skills!" advises a visitor to Yellowwood State Forest.
