Hoosier National Forest surrounds the Bedford area with over 200,000 acres of oak-hickory forest terrain ranging in elevation from 400 to 900 feet. The forest contains numerous equestrian facilities within an hour's drive of Bedford. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons feature moderate 60-70°F temperatures with less precipitation.
What to Do
Trail riding adventures: Located near Paoli, Youngs Creek Horse Camp provides direct access to multiple bridle trails. "The only time this camp is full is when a trail ride is going on, then it fills up fast. It is only five miles from Paoli, and there is a Walmart there if you need supplies," notes Susan A. The camp maintains dedicated hitching areas for horses near the primitive camping spaces.
Water activities: Lake Monroe offers boating opportunities at several access points. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing," reports Margo B. about Ransburg Scout Reservation, which allows visitors access to various watercraft.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple hiking paths cross through the hills surrounding Bedford. "We enjoyed the sycamore loop, which was around 6 miles. Everyone is super kind in the area, except for the gravel road to park (which is limited)," shares Hannah F. The trails feature creek crossings and diverse forest terrain with moderate elevation changes.
What Campers Like
Free camping options: Several no-fee camping areas exist in Hoosier National Forest. "This is free camping and first come first serve. There are vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out," writes Joe B. about Blackwell Campground, a popular location for self-contained camping.
Wildlife viewing: The forests harbor abundant wildlife in all seasons. "The chorus frogs do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people," Elizabeth W. explains about her camping experience in the region.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "No light pollution! Close to town but also right off some amazing trails!" Emily H. mentions about the camping conditions. Many campsites offer open clearings with good sky visibility for astronomy enthusiasts.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent thunderstorms during summer months. "We unfortunately had poor weather during our stay and had to leave early because of the threat of thunderstorms and tornadoes/damaging winds," shares Jessie W. about her experience at Spring Mill State Park Campground.
Campsite availability: Most forest service campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope," explains Daisy C. Weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day typically reach capacity by Friday afternoon.
Road conditions: Access roads to many primitive sites require careful navigation. "The road was gravel and steep at times," notes Amber R. about forest roads, though she adds, "I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site."
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational experiences: Several parks offer educational programs for children. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there. We were able to rent a paddle boat for $8/hr and saw tons of turtles!" explains Jessie W.
Family-friendly hikes: Several moderate trails accommodate young hikers. "We did however pack a lot of fun into 1 day! We also went for a hike to see Donaldson cave and the kids absolutely loved it!" shares Jessie W. about cave explorations with children at Spring Mill.
Pioneer villages: Historical demonstrations appeal to all ages at Yellowwood State Forest. "The best site in Black Gum would be site 75. Large site at the end of the loop & right by the lake," advises Cynthia K., noting proximity to both amenities and natural features that appeal to families.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many camping areas present leveling challenges for larger rigs. "Some of the sites are not real level," notes Ron H., adding that site selection is important for RV stability, especially in the state forest campgrounds.
Alternative arrangements: When horse campgrounds near Bedford, Indiana fill up, RV campers can find accommodations at Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping. "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site. I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site," reports Amber R.
Electric hookup options: Full-service sites remain limited in the forest areas. "There is a few RV sites (9 or 10) mostly tent camping sites. There is water available and outhouses, there is a dump station for RVs," explains Ron H. describing the camping infrastructure available to motorhome travelers.
