Dispersed camping near Versailles, Indiana offers primitive wilderness accommodations within the Hoosier National Forest. These rustic sites provide minimal amenities and require self-sufficiency from campers. Located in the rolling hills of southeastern Indiana, this area features mixed hardwood forests with elevation changes between 500-800 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage patterns that form the small lakes and ponds used for camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping, the small lake provides basic fishing options. According to Julie, "Small lake nearby with what looks like some trails." The lake supports common Indiana freshwater species but requires a valid Indiana fishing license.
Trail exploration: The surrounding Hoosier National Forest contains numerous unmarked trails suitable for day hiking. Steven G. notes about Sundance Lake, "A quiet little lake/big pond in the Hoosier National Forest with a few spots to camp." Hikers should bring topographic maps as trail markings may be minimal.
Wildlife observation: The forest area supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Early morning and dusk offer optimal viewing times, with the wooded environment providing natural cover for observation.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Ogala Horse Camp provides isolation from developed campgrounds, though weekend traffic can increase. The location offers natural buffer zones between campsites, creating privacy that many primitive campers seek.
Simplicity of setup: The primitive nature of the camping areas means fewer regulations and more flexibility. Julie mentioned about Sundance Lake, "National forest area with 3ish campsites one of which can accommodate a vehicle." This flexibility allows campers to select their preferred camping spot within designated areas.
Night sky viewing: Without light pollution from developed facilities, rustic camping near Versailles, Indiana provides superior stargazing opportunities. However, as one camper noted, the wooded environment can limit visibility: "Wooded so no solar or starlink."
What you should know
Limited site availability: According to recent visitors, Sundance Lake has approximately three primitive sites, with only one accessible by vehicle. This severely restricts capacity, especially during peak seasons.
Access challenges: The narrow forest roads can present navigation difficulties. Steven G. advises, "I wouldn't be trying to pull a travel trailer back into here unless it was very small." Standard passenger vehicles and small trailers can generally access the area, but larger vehicles will struggle.
Ranger patrols: Security measures include regular monitoring. One camper observed at Sundance Lake: "There were a few pickups that patrolled through here regularly, all through the night too." These patrols enhance safety but may reduce the feeling of complete wilderness isolation.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families should bring entertainment options as amenities are non-existent. Board games, nature identification guides, and outdoor activities help keep children engaged in the primitive setting without electronic distractions.
Site selection: When camping with children at Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping, consider the concrete pad area: "At the pond there was a pad of concrete leftover from who knows what." This offers a stable, level surface for family-sized tents.
Weekend considerations: Family camping requires timing awareness. Steven G. reports, "On the weekends, the activity picked up with a lot of partying and hunting." Weekdays typically provide quieter conditions more suitable for family camping with young children.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle sizing restrictions: The rustic camping areas near Versailles strictly limit RV size. Julie notes about Sundance Lake, "National forest area with 3ish campsites one of which can accommodate a vehicle." Only the smallest trailers and camper vans should attempt access.
Self-contained requirements: With no facilities available, RVers must be fully self-contained with water, waste storage, and power. The wooded environment further limits options as one camper points out: "Wooded so no solar or starlink." Generator use may be restricted or prohibited.
Leveling challenges: The natural terrain requires proper leveling equipment. The limited developed space means RVers should bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers for uneven ground conditions common throughout these primitive camping areas.
