Cicero, Indiana offers diverse camping options within Hamilton County at elevations around 820-850 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 85°F and cool springs with temperatures ranging from 45-65°F. Local campgrounds feature a mix of water-based recreation, hiking trails, and specialty accommodations including yurt camping near Cicero.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: France Park offers extensive trail networks beyond those connected to White River. "I took a 5 mile hike and she spent the day on the beach and swimming in the crystal clear lake. There are sooooo many trails and they are very well maintained, although if it's rained, there may be standing water in some of the lower areas," notes one France Park visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Fish in stocked ponds at multiple locations near Cicero. "Old Mill Run Park has Putt putt, shuffle board, a large creek and pond to fish in," according to a camper at Old Mill Run Park.
Water recreation: Beyond kayaking on White River, enjoy swimming in quarry lakes. A France Park visitor shared, "The quarry, wow! It was beyond stunning and never what I expected to see in an Indiana park. We had an amazing hike, checking out the quarry."
Disc golf courses: Practice your throws at area campgrounds with dedicated courses. "Totally delightful, some full timers and part timers, many parks and benches to sit on, nice disk golf course," reports a visitor to Cornerstone Campground.
What campers like
Unique water features: The quarry swimming areas provide a different experience from river recreation. "The swimming beach at the Quarry is very nice. If You're A Primitive camper this place has some awesome camping spots for you," shares a France Park reviewer.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. "The splash pad/water park was fun, but was not a pool. It only goes to 3 feet so if you want to swim this is not for you. The water was cold but my kiddos finally got in and had fun on the slides," notes a visitor to Indianapolis KOA.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking a glamping experience, yurt camping in Cicero, Indiana offers comfort with nature access. Spring Valley Camp Grounds provides yurt accommodations among their camping options, with one visitor noting they were "Really friendly staff. Love when they put concerts on. Love the swimming pool."
Concert transportation: Some campgrounds provide special services for entertainment. "Lisa and Brent have created a perfect spot to relax for a weekend getaway and enjoy the shows at both the campground and at deer creek. We enjoyed the bus ride both days to see Dave Matthews Band," says a Mystic Waters Campground reviewer.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites book quickly, especially in summer months. "Fills up fast, so make your reservation. It's small but one of my favorites," advises a White River Campground visitor.
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "This is a great campground for RVs and cabins, but unfortunately not for tents as the highway 69 is too noisy. Also there are not a lot of trees," warns a Mystic Waters Campground camper.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall with limited winter availability. "Old Mill Run Park season runs Apr 1 - Oct 15," according to campground information.
Site characteristics: Know what to expect regarding privacy and spacing. "The lot was spacious but had a big hill, which made sitting in chairs around a camp fire interesting," shares an Indianapolis KOA camper about their tent site.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-activity campgrounds: Choose locations with diverse recreation options. "We had a decently large site for our 23' camper. Lots for the kids to do- park, beach, fishing, pretty trails, waterfall, little camp store etc," notes a France Park visitor.
Consider splash pads for younger children: Water features designed specifically for kids provide safe recreation. "The balance between kid fun and peaceful nature is actually on point here. It was beautiful and peaceful but still a blast for kids with the water, playground, and even horses to view (not for riding)," shares an Indianapolis KOA reviewer.
Try yurt camping near Cicero: For families new to camping, yurt accommodations at campgrounds like Spring Valley offer a comfortable introduction. Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort also offers yurt options, with one visitor noting it's "really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum."
Check bathroom facilities: Comfort stations vary widely between campgrounds. "Their bathrooms and showers are the cleanest I've came across," reports a White River Campground visitor, while others note limitations at different locations.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment. "The ecenrry is beautiful. The csmpground is nice but lately it has a lot to be desired. The grass is usually long snd not mowed and the sites are gravel and they used the huge gravel so it is hard to used stabilizers and also level your unit on," advises a Cornerstone Campground visitor.
Full hookup availability: Check for complete services before booking. "I love it here. The owners are wonderful and the resort is beautiful. Lots are level and include a picnic table and fire pit, with nice space between sites," notes a Cornerstone Campground reviewer.
Connectivity considerations: Wi-Fi quality varies between campgrounds. "Very large KOA. They have all different types of sites. Pull through back in. Super deluxe, deluxe, full hook ups etc," shares an Indianapolis KOA visitor.
Site spacing: RV sites have varying degrees of privacy. "The owners are very nice, campgrounds are super clean, lots for my children to do. My only complaint is, it's your typical campground where you're right on top of your neighbor," reports a Cornerstone camper.
