Top Free Dispersed Camping near Greencastle, IN

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Greencastle? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Greencastle, IN (1)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Greencastle

7 Reviews of 1 Greencastle Campgrounds


  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    May. 9, 2024

    Peninsula Trail

    Awesome Place to BackCountry

    The Peninsula Trail and Grub Ridge trails both have marked campsites that are very far apart and totally private.  These are dispersed/primitive sites with a fire ring only.  Very remote feeling (except you CAN hear any loud cars/motorcycles at night from the main road over the lake). Light pollution is pretty low however, so good stargazing. 

    Trails are in good shape and the Penninsuala trail is pretty easy. Grub Ridge trail gets moderate the further west you take it.  CAmpsites 10,11,12,13 are very accessible with a short hike and are fantastic spots.   

    Lakeside spots are great also if you hike farther, but as others have said, drunk boaters tend to stop along the shore even though they are not supposed to. A few years ago boat access was limited to non-motoroized but not sure it is being enforced very well.  

    All the same, the Deam Wilderness area is Indianas best for backpacking and backcountry camping. 

    Down tower ridge road, to the east, just past the tower - turn right and the road there has lots of drive-in sites as well. These fill up fast on the weekends.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    Apr. 27, 2022

    Peninsula Trail

    Awesome!

    Went there with my kids and wife, we had a really great time. Primitive camping at its finest. Long walk to the water so make sure you bring plenty of drinking water. Springs available in the valleys but watch for timber rattlesnakes. Definitely would make this a must to visit.

  • Steve D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    May. 28, 2021

    Peninsula Trail

    Multiple trips here a year

    LOVE this trail. Just challenging enough to make it worth it. Campsites I’ve great fire pits. Only downside is the drunk boat people that show up in the summer.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    Apr. 27, 2021

    Peninsula Trail

    Relaxing Campsites on the Lake

    On the peninsula trail, there are multiple campsites with fire rings but you may also camp anywhere if you are at least 100 ft from the water. Campsite #18 has a great view and is large enough for at least 4 tents if you have a big group.

  • Osiel M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    Apr. 13, 2021

    Peninsula Trail

    Awesome place FREE

    It was an awesome backpacking journey for starters, little bit rough because of the horse riding track but awesome if you love to walk and see nature. Recommend this for sure!!!

  • Ralph R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Trail
    Jul. 6, 2018

    Peninsula Trail

    hiked this on way out to beautiful lake monroe .

    this was a wonderful scenic hike meant for the beauty of indiana



Guide to Greencastle

Camping near Greencastle, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Turkey Run State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Be prepared with hiking boots and sticks," as the trails can be challenging with plenty of steps and stream crossings.
  • Fishing and Boating: Head to Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area for fishing and boating. A visitor shared, "Great areas to walk your dog," highlighting the park's accessibility and beauty.
  • Wildlife Watching: Enjoy the natural surroundings at Hardin Ridge. One camper noted, "Beautiful spacious sites," perfect for spotting local wildlife.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Paynetown Campground. A reviewer stated, "Facilities are clean," which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities available at Prophetstown State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "This park has it all," referring to the playgrounds and bike trails.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Buffalo Ridge Campground appreciate the large, shaded sites. A review highlighted, "The woods surrounding the campground is very peaceful," making it a great spot for relaxation.

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds, like Turkey Run State Park Campground, have sites that are close together. One camper noted, "You don’t have a lot of privacy," so be prepared for neighbors.
  • Wildlife Caution: At Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area, raccoons can be a nuisance. A visitor warned, "Do not turn your back to your dinner table at any time if there’s food out."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Shades State Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "The vault toilets were dirty," so be prepared for basic facilities.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with plenty of activities, like Paynetown Campground, which offers swimming and fishing. One family shared, "Lots of free activities for kids."
  • Check Site Conditions: Before booking, check the site conditions. A camper at Buffalo Ridge Campground advised, "Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility."
  • Bring Games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. A visitor at Terre Haute Campground mentioned, "Friendly and helpful staff," which can help with local recommendations for family fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Prophetstown State Park Campground offer full hookups, making it easier for RVers. One reviewer said, "One of only a handful of state parks which offer full hookups."
  • Check Site Size: Be aware of site sizes at places like Terre Haute Campground. A visitor noted, "Most sites are gravel," which can affect parking.
  • Plan for Tight Turns: Some RVers found navigating sites challenging. One camper shared, "We had to unhook and were not able to park our truck on our site," so be cautious when selecting a site.

Camping near Greencastle, Indiana, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Greencastle, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Greencastle, IN is Peninsula Trail with a 5-star rating from 7 reviews.