Greendale, Indiana sits at the confluence of the Great Miami and Ohio rivers at an elevation of 486 feet. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers reaching 85°F and winter lows around 20°F. Water levels at nearby Brookville Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting kayak launch access points during summer months when reservoir drawdowns occur.
What to do
Trail exploration: Whitewater Memorial State Park offers miles of hiking and riding options. "The campground facilities are newly updated with two large shower/bath houses. Many fishermen and kayakers frequent the lake trails," notes a visitor. The park provides both paved and unpaved trails that connect to more of the lake.
Fishing access: A.J. Jolly Park & Campground provides water-based recreation within 45 minutes of Greendale. "The sites I'm at are on a hillside so think theatrical style site. The lake is in view to each site," reports a camper. The park maintains a boat ramp and allows personal watercraft on the main lake.
Family playground time: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Winton Woods campground has spacious paved RV spaces with full hook-ups, fire ring, and picnic table. There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies," according to a reviewer. Most playgrounds cater to younger children with basic climbing equipment.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Thousand Trails Indian Lakes provides direct lake access. "There are several fishing ponds and a lake with a beach area. There are 2 pools, and a golf course," mentions a regular visitor. The multiple water access points allow for spreading out even during busy holiday weekends.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "Deer sighting were plentiful as were chattering tree rats...ahem, squirrels, sorry. Woodpeckers stayed busy overhead," reports one camper at Hueston Woods. Early risers often spot more wildlife activity, particularly along lake edges.
Clean facilities: Follow The River RV Resort maintains modern restrooms. "The bathrooms having regular working toilets and showers. The bathrooms are very nice. There is a pool, volleyball courts and a dog park," notes a recent visitor. Most campgrounds in the region update their facilities every 5-7 years.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds limit operations during winter months. Frontier Heritage Campground specifically notes: "The area is only open in June and in September because of hunting season and their are rifle competitions in September." Always check operating dates before planning off-season trips.
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends book 3-6 months in advance at most area campgrounds. "Get your ideal site early during busy season," advises a Winton Woods camper. Weekday availability remains considerably better year-round.
Layout variations: Winton Woods Campground offers different camping sections. "Sites in the front section (1F – 25F and 1R – 12R) are big rig-friendly with paved roads wide enough to easily maneuver," shares a visitor. Some campgrounds separate tent and RV areas, while others intermix accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Kayak launches: Most water-adjacent campgrounds provide designated kayak entry points. "It sits on a lake with a kayak launch site right in the campground. I like the fact that there is a walking/bike path throughout the park," reports a camper. Many launch areas include shallow, gradually sloping entries suitable for beginners.
Fall festivities: October brings special Halloween-themed camping events. One visitor notes: "Unknowingly, it appeared every weekend in October has a big Halloween emphasis, so the upper campground was sold out." These events typically include trick-or-treating, costume contests, and decorated campsites.
Swimming options: Oak Creek Campground provides pool access during summer months. "Pool and new dog park with a very nice play area for the kids," mentions a reviewer. Most campground pools in the region operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with varying hours.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require careful site selection. "None are level looking so you will need to know what your doing to level your rig," advises an A.J. Jolly camper. Bringing extra leveling blocks helps address the varying terrain across most area campgrounds.
Hookup placement: Utility connections vary significantly between sites. "Water hookups are on the opposite side of electrical on several sites," notes a visitor, highlighting the importance of extension cords and longer hoses when glamping near Greendale, Indiana. Most full-hookup sites require at least 25 feet of hose and power cord.
Urban convenience: Some campgrounds offer proximity to services. "If it's raining no worries. It is close to restaurants and shopping," explains a Winton Woods visitor, making these locations ideal for luxury glamping experiences when weather turns unfavorable. Most area campgrounds sit within 15-20 minutes of grocery stores and restaurants.
