Camping near New Castle, Indiana centers around several smaller bodies of water including Summit Lake and the Big Blue River. The area sits at approximately 1,070 feet elevation with relatively mild seasonal changes, though summer temperatures regularly reach the mid-80s with high humidity. Many campgrounds in this region maintain operating seasons from April through October, with limited winter camping options available.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Summit Lake State Park Campground offers quality fishing in a lake where numerous campers report success. "This is a nice park for those who want to camp/hike/fish and not travel too far from home. It's a relatively quiet campground with lots of different sites available, some of which are right on the water," notes Dave E.
Kayaking on clear waters: Westwood Park maintains a gas-motor restriction that creates ideal paddling conditions. According to Greg C., it's an "easy access but somewhat hidden, nice lake for kayaking." The park's prohibition on gas motors contributes to exceptional water clarity for the region.
Historical exploration: Mounds State Park Campground provides educational opportunities beyond camping. "It's a nice park for kids... Easy trails. Nice playground... Mostly a weekender park," explains Michelle M. The park features ancient Native American mounds with interpretive trails explaining their significance.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cornerstone Campground maintains high standards for cleanliness according to multiple reviewers. One camper, Kelsey R., notes, "The owners are very nice, campgrounds are super clean, lots for my children to do. My only complaint is, it's your typical campground where you're right on top of your neighbor."
Family-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Indianapolis East organizes regular events for children. As Tiana K. describes, "Tons to do with the kids, organized activities are well done. Staff stays on top of everything and is super helpful. You can rent pedal bikes, pedal boats, store is well stocked."
Woodland hammock spots: Summit Lake State Park offers varied camping terrain suitable for different setups. Stephanie B. reports, "I hammock camp so I'm always looking for places that have trees and are pretty. When I arrived I was a little worried because the first loop was flat, grassy and open with very few trees in the camp spots good for hammocks. The second loop had what I was looking for."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate differently. "Westwood is a beautiful well manicured park... It's a small campground with around 33-38 camp sites and it's first come first serve. No reservations," explains Stephen H.
Site characteristics: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Summit Lake State Park, "Our site was a pull through and, while level left to right, required a good bit of leveling front to back," reports Marshall P.
Seasonal limitations: Some facilities close entirely during winter months. Prairie Creek Park operates seasonally, as Adam O. noted on "10/28/22. Campground is closing 10/31/22 for the winter. We stayed in the south shore campground (primitive sites and a handful of sheds/cabins), only here for the night."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Kamp Modoc features recreational water amenities specifically designed for younger campers. "The pond was great with the inflatables and water toys available for use. The camp store is large and offers food. There were many activities put on by the campground," shares Amy H.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. Austin M. reports that Westwood Park Big Blue River Conservancy District "is very nice, it has a small camp ground with 38 campsites. Each site had electric, fire pit, and grill top."
Organized events: Some campgrounds schedule regular programming. At Kamp Modoc, one visitor describes, "Do you have kids? They have it covered, from playground, to lake with inflatables, train rides, Holiday fun."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: When selecting campsites, RVers should consider vehicle length limitations. J C. at Mounds State Park Campground shares, "Pads are paved but narrow. Roads are narrow. Next to airport. We stayed at site 11. It's a 50 amp. Liked the woods view. Our 41 ft 5th wheel fit with room."
Hookup variations: Electrical connections differ across the best places to camp near New Castle, Indiana. At Prairie Creek Park, Bryan R. describes it as a "clean campground in a county recreation area. Nice place for an overnight stop."
Layout considerations: Many parks weren't designed with modern large rigs in mind. Summit Lake State Park has layout challenges according to Lisa M.: "I would think a rig more than 31 or 32 feet long would have difficulty maneuvering around the curve at the end of the second loop. We are a 30ft. Fifth wheel and it was pretty tight for us. Lots of trees."
