Turkey Run State Park offers diverse camping options near Danville, Indiana, with 200+ sites situated in mature woods. The terrain includes unique geological features with box canyons, active stream beds, and rocky trails that require varying levels of hiking skill. Many sites have 110, 30, and 50 amp power, though some are uneven and sloped, making careful site selection important for comfortable tent or RV camping.
What to do
Creek activities: Sugar Creek runs through Turkey Run State Park Campground and provides opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and seasonal water recreation. "Sugar Creek is also great for floating with inner tubes, canoes, or kayaks," notes Joel R. The park includes a suspension footbridge across Sugar Creek that campers frequently mention as a highlight.
Challenging trails: Turkey Run features unique hiking experiences through rugged terrain. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," advises Samantha S. Multiple trails with varying difficulty levels accommodate different hiking abilities.
Archery and outdoor sports: Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area offers recreational facilities beyond typical camping. "We love camping here! Lots to do. Love the archery range," says Nicole B. The recreation area also features a basketball court and several walking trails for visitors seeking diverse outdoor activities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site selection at Turkey Run can significantly impact your experience. "If you're looking for privacy, try to get a wooded site on the outsides that back up to woods. The majority of those have a decent number of trees separating you from the site next to you," recommends Samantha S. Conversely, "the open, grassy area sites don't offer any privacy."
Clean facilities: White River Campground maintains well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Their bathrooms and showers are the cleanest I've came across," reports Caitlin W. Similarly at Turkey Run, "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," notes Samantha S.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access. At Sugar Creek Campground, "The creek is awesome" for fishing, and the property includes catch-and-release fishing ponds. White River Campground provides river access with "a ramp into the river right there," according to Glenda S.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can vary significantly, with reports of lows "dipping into the high thirty's" even during regular camping season. Pack appropriate clothing layers for unexpected temperature changes.
Site characteristics: Many sites at Morgan-Monroe State Forest and Turkey Run have notable terrain features. "Our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167," shares Samantha S. At Morgan-Monroe, "I was slightly disappointed by the site selections being mostly on a slant," notes Rickie F.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds have active wildlife. At Turkey Run, campers warn: "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything." Similarly at Cecil M Harden Lake, a reviewer advises: "Lots of wildlife, so pack your food up right."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. White River Campground has a "playground is newly remodeled," and Raccoon State Recreation Area includes recreational facilities. "We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect," notes Stacey S.
Beach options: For families seeking water recreation beyond creeks, Raccoon State Recreation Area offers a swimming beach. "There was a beach which was nice and a building to get food. They have a basketball court, and a few trails," reports Staci J.
Timing for crowds: Popular areas like Turkey Run can get crowded, especially on weekends. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon," recommends Samantha S., who also suggests canoeing as an alternative to "fighting crowds at the park" during peak times.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Turkey Run, "Sites are primitive, with gravel parking pads. Campfire ring, grill grate, and picnic table are at all sites." For larger RVs at Morgan-Monroe State Forest, site options are limited as "there are only about 5 sites we could get in to. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight getting in and out of the campground."
Hookup details: Indianapolis KOA offers full hookups for RVs about 20 minutes from downtown Indianapolis. "Everything you would expect from a KOA: clean, easy in-and-out, all the amenities," notes Georgeann D. White River Campground provides options with "sites are paved, grounds are great to walk," according to Kristen S.
