Glamping near Hartsville, Indiana offers seasonal accommodations between April and November in a region with an average elevation of 890 feet. Seasonal temperature variations can influence camping experiences, with summer highs averaging 85°F and spring lows sometimes dipping to 40°F. The area features moderate to rugged terrain with both wooded and lakefront sites accessible within 30 miles of Hartsville.
What to do
Archery practice: Jackson Washington State Forest maintains dedicated archery ranges open to campers. "The archery range is great. We have been going here for a few years and it's never disappointing," notes a visitor to Jackson Washington State Forest.
Hike challenging trails: The region offers varied hiking terrain with notable elevation changes. A visitor to Brown County-Nashville KOA shared: "Lots to do here. One day hiking the next we were shopping. It's located right off 46 and just a few mins from downtown. Explore Brown County is also just a few mins away where you can paintball, ziplines, and ride ATVs on the trails."
Paddle the lakes: Several campgrounds offer kayak, rowboat, and canoe rental options on lakes of varying sizes. "Starve-Hollow Lake has three boat ramps to choose from, one at the dam and two in the electric campground. Kayak, rowboat and canoe rental is available. A valid Indiana fishing license is required," explains a camper from Starve Hollow.
Military history exploration: For history enthusiasts, Camp Atterbury provides a unique camping experience with military ambiance. "If you don't mind gunfire 24/7 this is the best place ever. No issues with me or my Service Dog," reports a visitor to Camp Atterbury Campground.
What campers like
Lakefront camping spots: Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. A visitor to Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground said: "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet."
Retro and themed accommodations: Several campgrounds offer distinctive lodging options beyond standard tent sites. "We've stayed at a few KOA campgrounds and this one didn't compare quite as expected. It's small, clean and owners are very friendly and helpful," reports a visitor to Indianapolis KOA.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high on campers' priority lists. A guest at Thousand Trails Indian Lakes noted: "The lot is gravel and very large for my small rig which was cool. It was nice and level, so I didn't have to do much. I have great service here with my T-Mobile 5g internet as well as my starlink."
Multi-generational appeal: Many sites feature amenities that cater to various age groups. "The campground as a whole was clean, but there was just a lot of trash along the shoreline at our site. Otherwise we did find the campground enjoyable! You can swim out back of many of the campsites along the River," said a camper about Hidden Paradise Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operating limitations: Most glamping operations near Hartsville close during winter months. "Most of the campground is shaded though. Some staff were good others just okay. The ATV and ropes course on site were excellent! The free bike trails were hard to find," a visitor to eXplore Brown County explained.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise either from highway proximity or recreational activities. "This is the campground for bringing your battery powered hammock string lights and bluetooth speakers to play Glass Animals or Boy Harsher at a reasonable volume," mentions another eXplore Brown County visitor.
Limited availability on weekends: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "We stayed one night, but we had to move to another campground because there are literally only two available campsites. The other spots are filled with people who are living there permanently," warned a Camp Atterbury visitor.
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "We had so much fun. We stayed in the cabins for a couple days. The cabins were nice and clean, and equipped with a little fridge and microwave. We will definitely be staying again," shares a Brown County-Nashville KOA camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming and water recreation options. "What is the best of the best for all in the family? A quarry full to swim with an aqua playground, with use of free life preservers, a creek to kayak or float and a clean campground! Life is good," writes a visitor about Hidden Paradise Campground.
Off-season value: Consider visiting in spring or fall for fewer crowds and potentially cooler weather. "We stayed in site 107 on a Sunday night and had the section all to ourselves. I think the place is quite busy on weekends though. Our son fished and we watched random people float down river," mentions another Hidden Paradise Campground visitor.
Playground proximity: Choose sites near playground facilities to minimize travel with small children. At Friends O' Mine Campground & Cabins, a camper noted: "Best place for camping, fishing, and relaxing. Pool onsite, rec room, firepits, showers, campstore, etc. You can get tent site or pull through sites."
Plan for weather variation: Spring and fall camping can see significant temperature fluctuations requiring appropriate gear. "Great spot to tent camp! The showers and real bathrooms were nice too! Plenty of trails and awesome lookout points. The lakes aren't bad for fishing and kayaking too!" reports a Brown County-Nashville KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "The entrance road to the campground is quite steep. We were in the full-hookup, back-in RV sites connected with the cabins but they are across the street so they're not too connected if you don't know who's in the cabin nearest you," advises a Brown County-Nashville KOA camper.
Hookup variations: Full hookup availability differs significantly between campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms! Great sites! Lots of water things to do," notes a visitor to Hidden Paradise Campground.
Leveling needs: Many sites require significant leveling, especially for larger rigs. "Pull through sites are spacious. Trees are young, across the road from Brown County national forest so hiking galore. And a short drive to Downtown Nashville Indiana! Pool is okay a bit dated, camp store was sparsely stocked," explains a Brown County-Nashville KOA reviewer.
Road access considerations: Some access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "The lot is gravel and very large for my small rig which was cool. It was nice and level, so I didn't have to do much," describes a Thousand Trails Indian Lakes camper.
