Camping sites near Ellettsville, Indiana range from basic primitive spots to developed campgrounds with modern amenities. The region sits within the hills of south-central Indiana where elevations range from 600-900 feet, creating varied terrain for camping. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions in the 60-70°F range with less moisture in the air.
What to do
Fishing at Yellowwood Lake: The 133-acre lake at Yellowwood State Forest offers good fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. "We have also had lots of fun renting a rowboat, and being out on the water. A few times we have camped in groups and rented an area, and that was also a great time camping with friends," notes camper Margo B.
Mountain biking on purpose-built trails: Brown County State Park provides extensive mountain biking opportunities for all skill levels. "The mountain biking is excellent, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," shares TMB about their stay at Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Gold panning with permit: A unique activity available at Yellowwood State Forest. "Believe it or not- gold panning is a thing here! You need a permit," reports Cynthia K., who explored the area's offerings.
Hiking the Tecumseh Trail: Access this 43-mile trail from Morgan-Monroe State Forest. "The Tecumseh trail (40 miles) starts in Morgan Monroe State Forest passes through Yellowwood State Forest and ends in the Hoosier National Forest," explains Ron H. who camped at Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at certain campgrounds. "This campground is decent if you get one of the few good spots. Many sites are small and can only accommodate a tent. Has water and vault toilets. This campground typically remains available as an overflow camping area but is still a good spot," states Joe B. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Lake access and water activities: Lake Monroe provides popular shoreline camping with water recreation. "This lake is huge and alot of fun. There are beaches everywhere besides the designated one so it's easy to swim with your dogs or find private spots," says Rebecca J. who stayed at Paynetown Campground.
Free camping opportunities: Some locations offer no-cost camping options. "Can't believe this place was free. It was nearly empty (although it was the end of November). The hiking was fantastic and the few people camping there were very well dispersed and all respectful," shares Kelly G. about her experience at Blackwell Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds near Ellettsville remain relatively empty during weekdays. "I stayed for one night in a non electric site on a trip. The campground was ok. The bathrooms were clean-ish but I couldn't get the showers to be not cold. The site was nice and level. Not many people there on a weeknight," reports Moriah C. about her stay at Lieber State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation status varies widely: Some campgrounds require planning while others are first-come, first-served. "Yellowwood state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change(cash)," advises Daisy C.
Limited cell service: Communication can be difficult at some locations. "We were working and we were grateful StarLink worked well. Husband was able to take his gravel bike out for a nice ride after work and I got in a nice little walk," mentions Shirley M. about Lieber State Recreation Area.
Park entrance restrictions: Some parks have vehicle limitations. "The north entrance is through a covered bridge with a 9 foot clearance and 3 ton limit! Otherwise, use the easily accessible west entrance, just a few miles 'around the corner,'" warns TMB about access to Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Off-season availability: Camping options change seasonally. "The park offers year around camping with reduced services in the winter months (they do have a heated bath house in the off season)," notes Stephen & Theresa B. about Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water options: Several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities for families. "This is our go to campground. We have stayed at several others in the area and by far Paynetown has the most to offer for families to have a great camping trip," shares Johnathan H.
Halloween camping events: Special seasonal activities enhance family camping experiences. "We love going to this park several times a year. We especially like camping in the fall for their Goblins weekend," says Timothy B. about Lieber State Recreation Area.
Educational wildlife programs: Nature centers provide learning opportunities for children. "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed! There are a lot of diverse hiking trails for all," mentions Jessie W. about Taylor Ridge Campground.
Family bike-friendly terrain: Flat areas provide safe cycling for children. "Very flat and ideal for bike riding. Also very family friendly!" notes Leah S. about Hardin Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many camping areas near Ellettsville have uneven terrain. "Had a back in gravel site that was difficult to back into and sloped back. I had to nearly lower my tongue to the ground to get it level," reports Joe M. about his stay at Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe.
Size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at some campgrounds. "The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is, we are RV campers and there are only about 5 sites we could get in to. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight get in and out of the campground," explains Ron H. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities vary between locations. "The only drawbacks were that the vault toilets are in pretty bad condition and the dump station hose did not have a connection to allow me to flush the blackwater holding tank," notes Don N. about his experience at Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Electric hookup distribution: Access to power varies by loop. "There are 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric. Well spaced all tucked into the trees on a ridge," describes Cynthia K. about Hardin Ridge.
