Tent campsites near Jonesboro, Indiana include Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort in Pendleton, approximately 20 miles southwest of Jonesboro. This established campground accommodates tent camping year-round alongside other lodging options. Another option is Clovis Creek, which offers tent-only sites with 20 designated camping areas and primitive tent setups that can be accessed by boat, vehicle, or on foot.
Most tent camping areas have minimal amenities. Pine Lake lacks drinking water, showers, and toilets, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water and sanitation supplies. Clovis Creek permits campfires and provides firewood and picnic tables, but has no water or bathroom facilities. Sites typically feature natural, ungraded surfaces with varied terrain. Both locations allow reservation of tent sites, though Pine Lake prohibits pets while Clovis Creek welcomes them. Seasonal conditions may affect access, particularly in spring when rain can create muddy conditions at primitive tent camping areas.
Tent-only experiences in the region offer varied natural settings. The lakefront location at Pine Lake provides water recreation opportunities, though fishing success may be limited. One camper noted that Pine Lake is "convenient and close to Indy" and "pretty place and fun for a laid back place to stay," making it suitable for short visits while exploring nearby attractions. River Camp Fort Wayne, located north of Jonesboro, provides an alternative tent camping experience with drive-in and walk-in access, though with similarly limited facilities. These primitive tent camping areas trade amenities for natural settings, with most visitors prioritizing location and basic functionality over extensive services.
"This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children’s museum. The lake is fabulous, but there didn’t seem to be too many fish available for catching!!"
TravelerIt’s a nice park for kids. Has a nice swimming pool. Easy trails. Nice playground. $5 firewood bundles. Mostly a weekender park. It is right next to a small craft airfield do it can get noisy at times and there is little wind protection.
TravelerSpecious sites a bit on the awkward side regarding lay-out. The vehicle separated the tent from the picnic table and fire ring. Less than ideal. I’m told that they’ve planted additional trees. They are relatively non existent at this point. Hence, a lack of privacy . Combined with awkward site layout we seemed to be right on top of our neighbors. No place to hang hammocks, tree swings or clothesline. Just sort of a open Praire. We were visiting by staff shortly after getting settled and told to put my highly trained border-jack on a leash even though she was at the time laying on my bed inside the tent which was zipped closed. The restrooms are kept up twice per day and are extremely clean and well cared for. The fishing was great! Lots of areas to explore even just to fish off shore or bridge. Everything was a good distended away from the campground so unfortunately my grandson could not bike alone to the lake to fish.
GuideNice camp ground along the white river with several sites along the waterway. Clean, well maintained, knowledgeable and friendly staff. Paved road with level concrete sites, could be a little more spacious, but all n all laid out nicely with aluminum picnic tables, and fire ring, 50 and 30 amp hook ups along with H20, and several full hook ups. Tent camping also available. Well stocked camp store. The facilities up front by the office are very clean and have showers with hot water. They could use a bench in the shower stall for your clothing and a space To get dressed discreetly. The facility at the end of the campground dosent have showers and are adequate but not quite as nice. Campground is in a good location close to many amenities
GuideCampsites have a gravel parking pad, picnic table, fire-ring, electrical hookups, and thick health grass which is awesome if you're staying in a tent! The have public wifi that isn't really working that often. There was a truck delivering firewood making rounds through the campground which was very convenient. Stuff to do - disc golf, beach, beach volleyball, hiking & biking trails, boating/fishing. Unfortunately we didn't get to stay here for long, so we're planning on coming back soon.
ScoutDefinitely a little dated. Picnic tables cracked plastic. My site was missing fire ring but many had them. Most sites really wet but gravel pads were close to level, needed to raise one side 1”.
ScoutWe love camping out here. It’s our favorite place to be in Huntington. It’s super cheap, the sites are well taken care of, plenty of play spots for kids, electric and primitive, the sites come with picnic tables and fire rings with cooktops, some of the spots are out in the open and others are inset back into the trees. Some spots have wonderful views of the lake too! Our only issue is that because there is no one constantly there like a normal campsite, there are people who take the best view spots are stay for weeks on end knowing you can only stay, I think 14days, before moving to a new spot. Went there this past weekend and the people across from us were also BLARING music so loud you could feel the bass in your chest. We kindly asked if they could lower it, not turn it off, just lower it and the man was so kind and did it, however the woman threw a fit and turned the music back up. We ended up moving sites even tho we paid for that specific one and already were set up. There is no number to call so you just have to deal. But it’s totally worth it for the price and the sites. People just need to learn camping rules and take other people into consideration. 🤷🏼♀️
GuideNo alcohol, unfriendly, staff, nice swimming area
LegendI learned of this place through the Dyrt (thank you!) and knew I wanted to stay here! There are several options available: tent camping (including a tree tent!), RV camping (two with electric hookups), and a 170-year-old log cabin. If you are RV camping, there are two very clean, private, and fully stocked "outhouses" (see photo below)
We originally planned to camp in our van but with below-freezing temperatures and a forecasted snowstorm, we decided to take refuge in the log cabin. To call this a log cabin is a disservice; yes, it is made from logs(and is 170 years old) but I was expecting a tiny one-room cabin; instead it is a two-story cozy home that can sleep up to six people, all in one upstairs room (two full-size beds and two twin beds; would be great for families). It was cozy and warm, heated by a gas stove. The bathroom (with a shower) is accessed from just outside the back door but is heated. The kitchen is an outdoor grill and picnic table, but we did not use this.
Tim and Beth were very welcoming, as was Juno, their dog. We enjoyed helping to feed the Alpacas– they have over 50. The rooster crowed gustily at dawn (but dawn was after 7 am and we were already awake). Also on the farm is Stormy, the horse, chickens, and some barn cats. There is a shop that sells goods made from Alpaca wool and we made sure to visit before departing.
Staying here was truly special and we hope to return to camp in one of the RV spots or the tree tent in the future.
TravelerI return to Salamonie River State Forest year after year because it truly feels like Northeast Indiana’s best-kept secret. This 21‑site primitive campground offers peaceful seclusion, 4 pit toilets, and two water sources—including a spring‑fed spigot with crisp, cold, delicious drinking water. I’ve stayed at several sites, with Site 18 and Site 20 as favorites. Tent‑friendly, small camper-friendly, pet‑friendly, and just $15/night, it sits beside horse trails, hiking routes, and great fishing. A small campground with big shine—highly recommended.
Tent camping opportunities near Jonesboro, Indiana primarily offer primitive experiences with minimal amenities. The region features several established campgrounds within a 25-mile radius, with most sites requiring campers to bring their own water and sanitation supplies. Winter camping is limited due to seasonal closures at most facilities from November through March.
Water recreation opportunities: Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort allows fishing despite mixed results. According to visitor Debbie S., "The lake is fabulous, but there didn't seem to be too many fish available for catching!!"
Explore nearby attractions: Pendleton's downtown area offers historic sites and local shopping within 20 miles of most camping areas. Pine Lake serves as a convenient base for day trips, with one camper noting it was "really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum."
Seasonal activities: Spring and fall camping provide the most comfortable temperatures, though spring brings increased precipitation. Summer weekends typically require reservations 2-3 weeks in advance at the best tent camping near Jonesboro, Indiana locations.
Accessibility: Most camping areas near Jonesboro offer multiple access options. River Camp Fort Wayne provides both drive-in and walk-in options for tent campers, making it versatile for different camping styles.
Short-term stays: Pine Lake's setting works well for brief visits. One reviewer mentioned it's a "Pretty place and fun for a laid back place to stay. I wouldn't recommend it for long term."
Natural settings: The camping areas prioritize natural surroundings over amenities. Clovis Creek offers 20 designated tent-only sites with varied terrain and tree coverage, allowing campers to select spots based on shade preference and ground conditions.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping near Jonesboro requires self-sufficiency. Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort lacks drinking water, showers, toilets, and trash service according to its amenities list.
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds require advance bookings, particularly during summer weekends. Clovis Creek accepts reservations but often has availability for weekday arrivals without advance notice.
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between locations. While Clovis Creek permits pets at their tent sites, Pine Lake strictly prohibits animals from the premises.
Day trip planning: The central location allows for family excursions to larger cities. One camper shared their experience: "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum."
Weather preparation: Spring camping often encounters mud and rain. Pack extra tarps, waterproof footwear, and changes of clothing for children when visiting the best tent camping sites near Jonesboro during April and May.
Activity options: Most campgrounds lack structured recreation programs. Bring portable games, fishing equipment, and nature exploration tools to keep children engaged during your stay.
Site limitations: RV camping options are restricted near Jonesboro. While Pine Lake accommodates RVs, the amenities list shows no hookups available for electricity, water, or sewer, requiring self-contained operation.
Access considerations: Many access roads to camping areas become difficult after rain. Larger rigs should call ahead to confirm current road conditions, especially during spring months when seasonal closures may still be in effect.
Alternative accommodations: Some locations offer cabin options for those seeking more protection from elements. Pine Lake includes cabins alongside their tent and RV sites for campers preferring solid shelter without bringing an RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jonesboro, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jonesboro, IN is Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Jonesboro, IN?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 tent camping locations near Jonesboro, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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