Near Indianapolis, glamping accommodations including yurts provide convenient access to both city attractions and natural settings. Camping options range from primitive sites in state forests to full-hookup RV sites with modern amenities. Several campgrounds offer water activities including fishing, boating, and swimming while maintaining proximity to urban conveniences.
What to do
River activities: At Hidden Paradise Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing and floating on Flat Rock River. "Our son fished and we watched random people float down river. It was perfect for overnight stay passing through," notes Carolyn M., who appreciates the riverside location.
Hiking trails: Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers extensive trail systems for hiking enthusiasts. A camper reports, "There are a lot of trails to hike, 2 of them are over 10 miles (lower gap and three lakes). The Tecumseh trail (40 miles) starts in Morgan Monroe State Forest passes through Yellowwood State Forest and ends in the Hoosier national Forest."
Water recreation: Lake activities are popular at several campgrounds. Guests at Mystic Waters Campground enjoy summer water recreation. "The lake at the campground is great to float around in on a hot summer day," shares Christopher N., highlighting the relaxing atmosphere.
Urban exploration: Campgrounds near Indianapolis serve as convenient bases for city visits. Tom O. notes that Indianapolis KOA provides "20 minutes to downtown attractions," making it an efficient home base for exploring urban amenities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention cleanliness as a priority. At White River Campground, Anthony C. appreciates that "White river campground is not a huge place, but it is always clean and very friendly staff. It's a great place to just go and relax and enjoy nature."
Spacious sites: Room to spread out ranks high on camper preferences. "The sites are spacious, the water, sewer, and electric are good. All sites are paved, grounds are great to walk, campground people are nice," explains Kristen S. about White River Campground.
Proximity to nature: Natural features adjacent to camping areas receive positive feedback. Shane H. appreciates White River Campground's "Great spots up against the river and very clean park," highlighting the appeal of riverside camping.
Yurt camping options: For campers seeking alternative accommodations, yurt camping near Indianapolis provides shelter with proximity to trails. Morgan-Monroe State Forest includes yurt options among its accommodation types, offering a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds near Indianapolis operate seasonally, with limited winter availability. Indianapolis KOA runs from "March 1 to November 15," making advance planning essential for shoulder season visits.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. A White River Campground visitor advises, "Fills up fast, so make your reservation. It's small but one of my favorites."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or facilities. At Camp Atterbury Campground, Jeff G. notes, "If you don't mind gunfire 24/7 this is the best place ever," referring to the military training facility nearby.
Variable pricing: Costs vary significantly between basic and premium sites. Lindsay K. observes that Hidden Paradise Campground was "$48 per night. More expensive than any other campground we have been to in more than 12 states."
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Campgrounds with swimming areas provide built-in entertainment. At Indianapolis KOA, Megan T. notes, "The splash pad / water park was fun, but was not a pool. It only goes to 3 feet so if you want to swim this is not for you. The water was cold but my kiddos finally got in and had fun on the slides."
Playground access: Dedicated play areas keep children occupied between other activities. A reviewer appreciates that Indianapolis KOA offers "a very nice playground and wading pool area. So if you have younger children, ideal for you."
Annual traditions: Many families return to favorite campgrounds yearly. Angela H. shares about Hidden Paradise Campground: "We love this campground so much that we return every year! Great riverside sites. We take our own rafts and kayaks, although both are available for rent/purchase at the camp store. Our boys & friends spend most of their time in the river."
Safety considerations: Supervised water areas provide peace of mind. Kimberly W. highlights Hidden Paradise's "quarry full to swim with an aqua playground, with use of free life preservers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. At Morgan-Monroe State Forest, Ron H. advises, "We are RV campers and there are only about 5 sites we could get in to. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight get in and out of the campground. If you have a small camper (15' or smaller) there would more sites."
Leveling needs: Site terrain varies across campgrounds. At Heartland Resort, Gary B. notes, "The power and water pressure was just fine. The campsite was muddy and needed maintenance."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites provide convenience for extended stays. Shannon C. appreciates Hidden Paradise Campground's "Full hook-ups! River front sites," which allow for comfortable longer stays.
Proximity to services: Location relative to supplies matters for extended trips. Mary T. appreciates Indianapolis KOA's amenities: "Very large KOA. They have all different types of sites. Pull through back in. Super deluxe, deluxe, full hook ups etc."
