Camping options near Hanover, Indiana range from lakeside sites to forested retreats within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level in rolling hills overlooking the Ohio River valley, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows around 20°F. Spring and fall camping provide moderate temperatures with occasional rainfall, while summer humidity levels typically exceed 70% from June through September.
What to do
Water activities at Starve Hollow Lake: The 145-acre lake at Starve Hollow State Recreation Area provides boating, kayaking and fishing opportunities. "Starve Hollow offers a great camping experience with accommodations ranging from primitive to full hook-ups and the park is impeccably maintained. The full hook-up sites are spacious with most offering a nice tree canopy," notes Stephen & Theresa B. Boat and kayak rentals are available from mid-April through October.
Historic exploration near Vevay: Swiss Haven RV Resort provides access to historic towns with unique architecture and regional history. "The location provides easy access to both the communities of Vevay and Madison Indiana which are rich in history, unique architecture, dining, shopping and wineries," explains Stephen & Theresa B. The resort is just 20 minutes east of Madison on IN-56.
Hiking trails at Delaney Creek Park: The park connects to the 50-mile Knobstone Trail system. "Its at the start to a Fifty mile trail (Knobstone Trail) or you can do the Delaney Loop in about 6 hours. (7.5 miles and 2000 ft elevation change) a good challenge for all ages," says James M. Trail maps are available at the gate, and the trails are well-marked for day hiking.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and layout at Follow The River RV Resort. "The campground is easy to access and super well taken care of! I am honestly very impressed with this park! There is pool access, a tree for shade at every lot, a picnic table at every lot and water access as well," reports Abigaile J. The resort provides scenic views along with privacy between sites.
Lake views from Wooster Campground: At Hardy Lake State Recreation Area, primitive camping allows boat access. "The Wooster Bay primitive area allows campers to moor their boats overnight. It has a very relaxed atmosphere. There is a pit toilet and water pump and overflow parking lot in the primitive area," explains Rebecca J. The separation from electric campsites keeps this area quiet and dark.
Year-round yurt camping options: Several campgrounds near Hanover, Indiana offer yurt camping throughout the year. Camp Raintree Lake (formerly Jellystone) provides modern yurt accommodations with climate control. "Gorgeous property with such kind and friendly owners. New owners that are making improvements to the property but it is so nice already," notes Julie G. Seasonal yurts at Lake Shelby also provide a glamping option near Hanover.
What you should know
Additional entrance fees apply: Some state parks charge day-use fees on top of camping fees. "Be aware of an additional $9 feet at the gate besides the camp fee," warns Donna T. about Charlestown State Park. This fee applies to vehicles entering the park and is separate from camping reservation costs.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Riverside camping areas may experience flooding. "BIG WARNING would be that it floods tremendously because it is so close to the water! Be aware of rain and water rising!" cautions Abigaile J. about Paul Ogle Riverfront Park. Check weather forecasts before booking riverside sites during spring or after heavy rains.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. "All the sites are pretty much the same with good spacing between them. Most are electric only but we got one of the handful of full hookup sites," notes Greg S. about camping at Charlestown State Park. Bring leveling blocks even for developed campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: General Butler State Resort Park offers multiple play areas. "Great little park located just far enough away to get away but close enough to town to run and get something if you forgot it. Property has a lodge, cabins, pull through, full hook up, and water/power hook up, primitive spots, and day use shelters," Kyle explains. The park includes a playground for younger children and recreation options.
Swimming options: Delaney Creek Park provides lake swimming during summer months. "The grounds were very well kept, with a nice but crowded swimming area. Every one was very friendly and I think almost every camper had a dog with them," reports Patty C. The park maintains a designated beach area that gets busiest on weekends.
Kid-friendly yurt camping: Families seeking yurt camping near Hanover, Indiana can find options at several parks. "A lot of things to do around the campground, and kids will absolutely love it," says Chris W. about Camp Raintree Lake. Their yurt accommodations include electricity and comfortable bedding, making them ideal for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be prepared for non-standard utility placement at some campgrounds. "The electric and water hookups are not in standard locations for RV hookups. Make sure you bring an extension for your electric hookup, otherwise you might not be able to reach the post," advises Kelsie E. about Delaney Creek Park. Extension cords and extra water hose length are recommended.
Site length considerations: Some campgrounds have shorter sites than advertised. "Very weird at first as the sites are 20 feet long, but they allow front ends to stick out," notes Never Sitting S. about Lake Shelby Campground. Call ahead to confirm your RV will fit, especially for units longer than 35 feet.
Yurt camping alternatives: When RV sites are full, consider yurt camping near Hanover as an alternative. Yurts provide many RV comforts including electricity and climate control without needing hookups. "The sites are very level, water is good, power is stable at 118 VAC," reports Charlie M. about the accommodations at Swiss Haven RV Resort, which offers yurt options alongside traditional RV sites.
