Derby is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Derby is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Derby, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$21 - $44 / night
"This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispered camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site."
"Indian Lake is co-located with Celina Lake and two campground.
Once you turn off of IN37 you just keep straight to get to Indian Lake."
$5 / night
"There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in."
"This is a centrally located primitive campground that my siblings and I use often for weekend expeditions."
"It used to have a sweet little walk in spot down the bouldering trail that looked over the river. Now it is overgrown and you can't get back there."
"There actually wasn’t any camp grounds open when we got there but we were so exhausted from the drive and it was 4am so we parking at the trail head and got a 3 hour nap in."
$21 - $70 / night
"This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down!"
"Located in the beautiful rolling hills of southern Indiana not far from I-64 (exit 79)."
"The campground is near the trail to the old abandoned bridge which is well worth the hike. The fire tower has a commanding view."
"We only hiked one trail and that was the one from the campground to the nature center. It was fairly rough in spots but enjoyable."
$45 - $101 / night
"This park is conveniently located beside Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana! There is a wide variety of activities and it's a fun place to camp with family!"
"This is a fun family Campground located adjacent to holiday world and Splashin Safari. There are golf carts for rent, nice camp stores, pools, playground, putt putt golf course, arcade and more."
$8 / night
"I wrongfully assumed the horses would be at Saddle Lake across IN37, but then I rolled into German Ridge. "
"We also found a bunch at the host at the Tipsaw Campground a short drive away. We were at site 19 and pitched 3 tents, and it was tight quarters but doable."
"There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground."
"We were right at the lake edge. The campsite had electric but no water, but the water was just across the road at a shelter."
"Jackpine Loop is the largest of the campground loops at Tipsaw Lake Recreation area Hoosier National Forest.
The entire Tipsaw area seems to be oriented toward family and group camping."
"Wildlife is everywhere, as it is not unusual to have a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launc, often followed by a turkey or two."
$12 - $14 / night
"My Aunt loves their trips to Patoka Lake & I can relate as to why after this weekend. We went for a wedding at the marina & ended by a lovely cove."
"Pick a site that has water near and you won’t have to unhook to fill your tanks. So many sites are in the shade all day and peaceful. Showers are spotless but fun on the push button system."
ScoutThe entire park is just beautiful. It's very family friendly and quiet. The sites are spacious, and there are a lot of nature things to do.
GuideSecluded camping area with horse hitch. 5 - 6 primitive spots with fire rings and tables. Very little privacy. Tents and vans only.
ScoutO'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on blue River, a beach at the park. Swimming, horse trails and lodging, electric campgrounds, you name it. It's clean and laid back
ScoutThe park needs a lot of upkeep good showers the staff is really good but a little noisy a lot of junk sitting around that people's site fights are really small and tight okay
LegendNice campground, needs some structural updates. Mostly shaded spots. Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use. Minus a star due to no hot water, I would have been happy with warm but no luck.
Several trails in walking, horse or bike riding distance. Some direct access from the campground.
You can set up here and have plenty to do without ever leaving the park.
Corydon is within half an hour, Louisville about an hour.
ScoutThis is our second stay at tipsaw. Jackpine 15. We love this campground and sites. Clean, quiet, friendly host. Definitely a repeat place we will go.
GuideI stayed here two nights and loved it! There was a train that was loud as it went by but other than that this spot is great! The host was responsive and pleasant. I had no issues while there. Will return for sure.
GuideI’m grateful I got a spot, since there are only 5. I’m also grateful that’s it’s open (since past Nov 15th)- and that they are drive-in sites. It’s buried deep in the forest. Clean bathroom aka pit toilet, was literally just washed and stocked before I arrived. One bar with AT&T, was able to get online when the neighbors left (but not while they were home)- so a booster or better would be advised. Mine is unboosted. The neighbor running the loud generator (the noise in the video) did come over and ask if it was disturbing me, lol- which was nice. Of course I said no :) since I brought a fan that was able to drown out most of the noise. Overall, if I were staying for the 14 allowed days- I’d say it’s worth the trip in. The road in IS paved and well-maintained up until a tiny portion at the end. Grateful for a spot, though.
GuideObannon Overall, this is a nice state park to camp in. Staff was very friendly. They have ice and wood. My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails.
We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they’re still not too far from the bathrooms and playground. The better playground is in loop A.
I will say, I didn’t see any staff members cleaning up trash, getting campsites ready, or anything the 2 days we were there. Even though we went in November, it was a nice weekend and wasn’t dead, so I was surprised I didn’t see anyone cleaning. Wasn’t the cleanest state campground we’ve been at in Indiana. Certainly wasn’t awful though either.
My biggest gripe was they were hosting a huge cycling group. Like the whole loop A. We were all the way back in C. They held a concert that went on from like 8-11 pm. Being in a pop up, it was so loud and never ending. Made it difficult for my kids to sleep. If they’re going to hold (or allow) events like these, it should be posted on their website. Even with our sound machine, we still couldn’t block it out. I realize quiet hours aren’t until 11, but to me there’s a difference.
There is also hardly any signage and spots are difficult to find. No arrows about which way to go, signs saying which loop you’re in, and spots are only marked on the electrical boxes.
Overall, may stay again and try out the pool since we’re not too far from home, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to stay here.
Camping near Derby, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Derby, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Derby, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Derby, IN and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Derby, IN is Indian-Celina Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Derby, IN.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Derby, IN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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