Top Tent Camping near Carlisle, IN

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Carlisle and then fall asleep in your tent? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Carlisle, Indiana's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Carlisle, IN (2)


Recent Tent Reviews In Carlisle

220 Reviews of 2 Carlisle Campgrounds


  • Jeremy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache Trails County Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Ouabache Trails County Park

    2 night stay

    We stayed here 2 nights. We came to see the George Rogers Clark National Monument. Campground was nice. Several full time campers living here. Staff was friendly. Was a little noisy on the weekend. Shower house was very clean.

  • Sara W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Prairie Creek

    Prairie creek

    Men's and women's shower house playground few trails rv tent and camper electric a few primitive sites 2 sites r 50 Amp I think the rest r 30 Amp water gets wonderfully hot Verizon works can have door dash and amazon delivered

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Plainview Campground — Lincoln Trail State Park

    Dog poop in the site and loud neighbors

    I was not a fan. I was tenting and there was not a great spot for the tent and there was dog poop everywhere (tracked some in the tent when setting up so I wasn't pleased). Also a bunch of large Widowmakers in the trees above was nerve-wracking. The people around me were LOUD! One dude listening to a college football game until past 10 and a guy and his kid playing glow Frisbee right in from of my tent past 10 as well. As I was on a road trip and wanted to get to sleep, this was not appreciated.. On th e good side, the bathrooms were very clean. I would NOT stay here again

  • Andriy
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hollar Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Hickory Hollar Campground

    alexseen

    Scrolling through my phone, I decided to try something different, and that’s when I found lucky star. The site’s design is simple but nice, and it’s easy to find your way around. I played a few games on lucky star, and they were actually pretty fun and not too complicated, even for someone like me who’s new to this. The bonuses make it feel like you’re getting a little something extra each time, which keeps it exciting. I didn’t expect much going in, but it turned out to be a really good time. I’ll definitely be back when I need a break from everything else.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairview Park Campground
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Fairview Park Campground

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  • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beall Woods State Park
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Beall Woods State Park

    Great park

    We had a great experience with the park itself. The grounds were very well maintained with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. We were there on a Sunday night and were the only campers in the park.

    The star I knocked off was for the pit toilets. They had not been limed in a while as evidenced by the bugs swarming inside the pits and larva swimming in the bottom. If I didn’t have a portable travel potty of my own, I would have not given even four stars. I may not have camped here.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Camp Resort
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Hickory Hills Camp Resort

    Perfect RV Resort south of Indianapolis

    We were so fortunate to have found The Retreat at Hickory Hills and stay there for a month! There’s two pools, a pickle ball court, a basketball half court, farm animals, golf cart trails, kayak/canoe/row boats, exploring creeks, fishing, a dog park, several playgrounds, Gaga ball, tether ball, volleyball, frisbee golf and several weekend activities for everyone. Saturday mornings were our favorite where we could get biscuits and gravy, coffee and the kids had craft time. It’s definitely worth bringing mountain bikes or renting their golf carts to explore their golf cart trails! We went out on these several times and it never got old! Staff and campers were welcoming and friendly. We still haven’t stopped talking about how CLEAN they keep everything. The sites were large and they’re still expanding and adding more sites. There’s a seasonal campers area and an overnight or monthly area. We stayed in the overnight/monthly area. It was peaceful and relaxing throughout the week and lively during the weekend. It was a wonderful balance!! We’ll definitely be back.

  • Jacob A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shakamak State Park
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Shakamak State Park

    One of our favorite parks!

    We have been coming here every year since 2016. Most of the sites are shady. Our favorite site is 72. It is close to a water hookup if you need to top off your fresh water tank, shady, and not too close to other sites. They added a new shower house close by in 2022 or 2023.

  • KingDredd The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Fowler County Park

    Amazing view and fishing

    Got in late after a spurratic decision to camp. Got here and found that point 5 was open and we tried it. Beautiful view, nice people, and great lake access. Mossy but we casted over it no problem and never had any issues.

  • Sandie R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oblong Park and Lake
    May. 31, 2024

    Oblong Park and Lake

    Beautiful, well maintained

    Beautifully maintained, would like to see a small concession stand for soft drinks and ice cream for the kiddos.

  • Andrew D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hollar Campground
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Hickory Hollar Campground

    Nice short term camp

    Very friendly and helpful owners. Very accommodating. We were here for the eclipse and was fantastic for that. Some of the facilities such as kayaking etc not open yet due to time of year.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fox Ridge State Park
    Feb. 4, 2024

    Fox Ridge State Park

    Half way point for the days drive

    Stopped here for lunch and stayed about an hour. Easy to find, multiple shelters with grills. Some light paths and a playground.

  • Anna O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Fowler County Park

    Beautiful lake

    This is our family favorite camp park in Terre Haute! Has great hiking trails, a covered bridge with historical log cabins for festivals. They have 1 cabin you can rent out. Bring your fishing gear, they stock the lake. There's and boat ramp and bank access to kayak. They have some pull through for your big riggs and some sand beds for your tent camping

  • Anna O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Prairie Creek

    Woody with plenty of space

    Lots of trees and wild life with hiking trails. Nice little pond to fish or watch the geese. Spacious camp site at a good price.

  • steve T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Casey KOA
    Sep. 25, 2023

    Casey KOA

    Owner is not good with people

    When asked why I couldn't put up a small fence for my dogs he went to great details to tell me why dogs had a bad rep in his park. When I said it wasn't on the website he got extremely angry, came close to attacking me and thru me out of his park and called the police. Don't stay there if you have pets.

  • Dean G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fowler County Park
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Fowler County Park

    Flower Park

    Stayed at River Birch 15. Site has a pretty severe grade as the site goes back. If you have a 20+ travel trailer I would be inclined to choose another space. Site mostly level left to right. On the corner next to the road but minimal traffic and close walk to the dumpsters and bath house. Nice shade. River Birch is definitely the more popular loop and was full Thursday night versus barely any campers at the other 2 loops.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arrowhead Campground
    Sep. 6, 2023

    Arrowhead Campground

    Ignore the long description!

    BEWARE: The super long narrative has absolutely NOTHING to do with this campground! Had it been written by the owner, I would have given it zero stars. This lengthy description might describe the general area but not this facility. It’s a nice, very tiny campground right next to the road into town on which some locals apparently enjoy ‘rolling coal’ at 90 miles an hour. Walking a dog is a bit risky. Good place for a quick overnight though. Power was good but let the water run a bit because it’s brown when first turned on.  Payment CASH ONLY.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Creek
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Prairie Creek

    Hottest part of the year

    We were one of the only groups camping, quiet pretty clean, would have given 5 stars if not for the dogs that ran off waking us up one morning and the lawn mowers waking us the next. Great fishing don’t forget to get a license!! Clean showers & restrooms! Easy to reserve online and plenty of spots for travel trailers.

  • Brandon W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pike State Forest
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Pike State Forest

    Peaceful

    This is the place to go if you really want to camp without the modern convenience of water and electricity. Which in my mind is perfect because it's usually just one maybe 2 people if that

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin State Forest
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Martin State Forest

    Quiet Campground

    Level sites, gravel and paved. Water available but not at each site. Pit toilets. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Nice clean and maintained campground.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Glendale State Fish and Wildlife Area
    Aug. 13, 2023

    Glendale State Fish and Wildlife Area

    Quiet, friendly family camping

    Campground was nice and quiet, well maintained. Has paved level pads, some slightly sloped. Shaded and sunny areas. Showers were very hot, toilets clean. Great place for fishing in Dogwood Lake.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from West Boggs Park
    Aug. 7, 2023

    West Boggs Park

    2023 prices

    Camping site rates 2023 are from $45 to $33 daily, depending on modern or primitive site. All sites have fire rings and picnic tables. Nice views of the lake. Could use showers updated.



Guide to Carlisle

Camping near Carlisle, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area. One reviewer mentioned, "Bring your fishing gear, they stock the lake," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hardin Ridge. A visitor shared, "There are three trails, a beach, picnic areas & a boat launch," perfect for those who love to hike and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a dip at the beach in Paynetown Campground. One camper noted, "The electric campground has 227 sites... Many have lake access due to camper-made trails to the lake."

What campers like

  • Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Patoka Lake Campground. A review stated, "The spacious campsites add to the allure, providing ample room for relaxation and enjoyment."
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors to Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area mentioned the cleanliness of the restrooms. One camper said, "Bathhouse clean, plenty of showers, flush toilets."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campers enjoy the family-friendly vibe at Lieber State Recreation Area. A reviewer remarked, "Great sites. Lots of activities for families."

What you should know

  • No water hookups: At Patoka Lake Campground, it's important to note that there are no water hookups. One camper advised, "Remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site."
  • Busy on weekends: Expect crowds at Paynetown Campground during summer weekends. A visitor mentioned, "This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend."
  • Limited cell service: If you rely on your phone, be aware that cell service can be spotty. A camper at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area noted, "Cell service was poor."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose shaded sites: Look for sites that offer shade, especially during hot summer days. A family at Shakamak State Park mentioned, "Most of the sites are shady."
  • Plan for activities: Bring bikes for the kids to ride around the campground. One reviewer at Lieber State Recreation Area said, "The campground is nicely laid out, the sites are of a good size, and the activities at the park are great."
  • Watch for wildlife: Keep an eye out for raccoons and other critters. A camper at Hardin Ridge warned, "Make sure to put away all of your food!!! Even scraps and yes, even dog food."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site levels: Some sites can be uneven, so it's good to check before you park. A visitor at Fowler County Park noted, "Site has a pretty severe grade as the site goes back."
  • Bring adapters: If you're using a 50-amp site, make sure to bring an adapter for 30-amp plugs. A camper at Fowler County Park mentioned, "You will need an adapter to use 30amp from a 50amp site."
  • Plan for tight spaces: Some campgrounds have close sites, so be prepared for tight parking. A reviewer at Terre Haute Campground said, "Sites are very close together."

Camping near Carlisle, Indiana, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Carlisle, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Carlisle, IN is Rattlesnake with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.