Tent camping near Greendale, Indiana offers several options within a 30-mile radius, including riverfront sites, backpacking trails, and recreational areas. The region features rolling hills with limestone outcroppings and deciduous forests, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 500-900 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Bullock Pen Lake Ramp, campers can access a local fishing lake. While the location doesn't offer overnight camping facilities, one visitor notes, "This is just a boat ramp for a local fishing lake sitting near the local water departments pump station."
Hiking with elevation: The Twin Valley Trail system in Dayton Metro Parks provides challenging terrain for hikers seeking varied landscapes. A camper shares, "This was a lovely backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers." The trail covers approximately 2,000 acres with varied terrain and multiple ravines.
Wildlife viewing: Possum Creek area within Five Rivers Metroparks includes a small farm where families can observe domestic animals. A visitor mentions, "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals. You can hear some of the animals but we enjoyed this aspect."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Morgan's Outdoor Adventures provides waterfront access with direct views of the river. A camper reports, "We loved the views of Morgan's. Steps away from gorgeous river views. There is nothing like waking up and making breakfast while watching the river roll by!"
Privacy between sites: At Twin Creek Metro Park, the campsite layout offers significant separation between camping groups. One camper noted about their experience, "The other two group camp sites were far enough away that you couldn't hear or see them." This allows for a more secluded tent camping experience despite being in an established campground.
Free firewood with booking: Front country campsites at Five Rivers Metroparks include a complimentary bundle of firewood with each night's stay. A regular visitor explains, "The nice thing about the metro parks camp sites (front country only) is that they provide a bundle of fire wood free each night and you can purchase additional bundles." The included bundles are described as "huge" and "dry and cut in an easy to use manner."
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many campsites in the region require campers to bring their own water supplies. At Germantown MetroPark, "there is a dearth of potable water stations, so all water needs to be packed in from trailheads with water, the Welcome Center, or pumped from non-potable sources, filtered and/or treated."
Site size variations: Campsite dimensions and terrain vary significantly between locations. At Quakertown State Rec Area, a camper observed the sites are "average sized" and noted that "Some of the picnic tables are small."
Seasonal considerations: Best tent camping near Greendale, Indiana is most accessible during warmer months, with some facilities having limited seasons. Boltz Lake facilities operate from "early May to late September" according to posted information.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple table setups: Family groups appreciate campgrounds with extra table space. One visitor to Twin Creek Metro Park mentioned, "The nice thing about their site is the additional tables made it easy for us to socially distance. When I camp at local state parks and we only have one table it can be tricky to keep coolers, food, and people separated."
Historical attractions: Nearby towns offer educational side trips for families. A camper reported, "We drove into town and discovered a covered bridge that I had missed on an earlier camping trip. (Germantown). This town also has the Florentine which is one of the oldest inns in Ohio."
Trail difficulty ratings: Parents should consider trail challenges when planning hikes with children. The Twin Valley Trail includes sections described as "rugged" with "switchbacks managing the climbs and descents over the limestone bluffs." Some trails connect to "Prairie land and to a forest with former amusement park remains" which can motivate younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Greendale prioritize tent camping with few RV amenities. While Quakertown State Rec Area is described as "big-rig friendly" with "sanitary dump" facilities, a visitor mentioned the site was "a little pricey at $30" and noted that "A shooting range nearby is a little annoying."
Noise considerations: RVers should research nearby facilities that might create unexpected noise. At Quakertown, the proximity to a shooting range affects the otherwise "clean and quiet" environment, though "There's a good amount of trees for shade coverage."
Advance verification: Some locations listed as campgrounds may not actually permit overnight stays. About Boltz Lake Ramp, a visitor warned, "There's only a boat ramp here! No camping at all... definitely good for a 'put in' but that absolutely it."
