Camping options near Bedford, Indiana sit within the rolling hills and diverse forests of south-central Indiana. The area features elevations ranging from 500 to 800 feet, creating diverse terrain for outdoor recreation. Many campgrounds provide year-round access with seasonal amenities from April through October when temperatures typically range from 50-85°F during camping season.
What to do
Lake activities at multiple depths: Starve Hollow Lake offers a 145-acre lake with varied fishing opportunities. "The lake has a swimming area and there were a lot of playgrounds. Overall there was nothing bad to report. If you want to rent one of the kayaks, get to the office right at 8 or they will be gone for the day," notes Martin M. about Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Trail exploration for all levels: Jackson-Washington State Forest provides challenging hiking with significant elevation changes. "The property offers several stunning hiking trails and some are of the more challenging nature due to the elevation changes. The park also has an amazing scenic drive, Skyline Drive, which lives up to its name with spectacular panoramic vistas showcasing Indiana's gorgeous farms," states a reviewer of Jackson Washington State Forest.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early risers can spot diverse wildlife at many campgrounds. "Wake early to see the sun rise over the lake," recommends a visitor at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
What campers like
Level camping areas: Most sites at Youngs Creek Horse Camp are well-maintained for comfortable setup. "The campsites I saw were pretty level. They all seemed to be pretty shady as well," notes a camper at Youngs Creeks Horse Camp.
Clean facilities throughout: Campgrounds maintain reliable bathroom facilities for visitors. "Bathroom/showers very clean. We were here for a family reunion and used the club house, which was very nice. They also have boat docks, outdoor pavilion, basketball court, beach and swimming area," shares a visitor at Delaney Creek Park.
Quiet off-season experiences: Many campgrounds offer peaceful stays during weekdays or shoulder seasons. "This is a great campground. It deserves the 5 I gave it. We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," mentions a visitor about their experience.
What you should know
Site-specific preparation needed: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for comfortable setup. "If you have levelers, should not be a problem, but be sure to bring extra, because it's a good 3" to 5". We have a small class C and we had to raise the back end (facing the lake) off the ground with our hydraulic levelers," warns a visitor at Delaney Creek Park.
Seasonal camping considerations: Bug activity increases during summer months at most locations. "Take bug spray in the summer! Swimming beach and boat ramp/kayak rental available," advises a camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Utilities placement variations: Hookup locations can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. "The electric and water hookups are not in standard locations for RV hookups. Make sure you bring an extension for your electric hookup, otherwise you might not be able to reach the post," explains a visitor at Delaney Creek Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds available: Many campgrounds offer play areas throughout the properties. "Great getaway for the family. We love this place and camp here 5+ times a year. It's clean and so much to do with kids," shares a camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Specialized family activities: Some locations offer unique family experiences beyond traditional camping. "Great place 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 a visitor at Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe.
Cabin accommodations for beginners: Entry-level glamping in Bedford, Indiana area provides family-friendly alternatives to tent camping. "The cabins look cute. I peeked in one. Double bed with bunks in room. There's a loft for kids. A/C and heat but not bathroom. Bring a mattress or sleeping bags or you will sleep on wood," advises a reviewer at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Carefully research site dimensions before booking. "Pull through sites are spacious. Trees are young, across the road from Brown County national forest so hiking galore. And a short drive to Downtown Nashville Indiana!" shares a visitor at Brown County-Nashville KOA.
Leveling requirements vary: Many sites require additional blocks or equipment. "Sites for RVs are concrete and you will need to level some on all of them. They have electric and water. Reasonable prices," notes a visitor at Delaney Creek Park.
Hookup considerations: Access to full services varies by campground location. "We stay in the full hookup section (camping facilities: electric, sewer, and water hookup as well as fire ring, picnic table, and parking spur at each site). The bathhouse was clean (even though it rained most of the weekend). These sites are a good size and able to get any size Trailer or RV into these sites," explains a camper from their experience.
