Tent campsites near Leavenworth, Indiana are nestled within the rolling hills of southern Indiana, where elevations range from 400 to 900 feet above sea level. The camping areas sit within the boundaries of Hoosier National Forest, an 203,000-acre protected woodland characterized by hardwood forests, limestone outcroppings, and numerous small waterways. Seasonal considerations significantly affect camping experiences, with high humidity in summer months and occasional flooding near creek beds during spring rainfall.
What to do
Hiking at Hemlock Cliffs: Located near Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed camping areas, these trails feature unique geological formations. One camper noted, "There are rock outcroppings along this road, which follows Mitchell Creek and lots to explore on foot."
Kayaking on Blue River: Old Mill Tent and Hammock Camping provides direct river access where paddling trips conclude. According to a visitor, "A canoe/kayaking company actually ends one of their river trips there so during the day it could be a bit noisy when those groups come in."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas around Happy Hollow Homestead support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. A camper shared their experience: "Kerry took us on a kubota for a tour of the property. We saw a beautiful creek with waterfall, bee hives and sinkholes."
Fishing at Springs Valley: Though overnight camping may be restricted, the recreation area remains open for day use activities. A visitor commented, "This is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. Electric motors only, so nice and quiet."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: The dispersed sites at Mitchell Creek Road offer remarkable isolation from crowds. One camper reported, "Only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet."
Hammock-friendly forests: The tree coverage at most sites provides ample hammock hanging opportunities. A camper at Happy Hollow noted, "The forest is beautiful and we had no problems with ticks or mosquitoes while sleeping in our hammocks."
Riverside camping: The proximity to Blue River at Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping creates a peaceful setting. A visitor described it as "Nice size site with fire ring and picnic table. Lots of trees- so great tree canopy and plenty of hammock."
Space between sites: Established campgrounds in the area typically provide good separation between campers. One Happy Hollow visitor appreciated that "We were all impressed with the land and how spaced out the camp sites were."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping options require complete self-sufficiency. A Mitchell Creek Road camper warned, "This is NOT a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land. There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites can be challenging, especially after weather events. A visitor noted, "Road south coming in was destroyed some time ago have to w yer from east or west road."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is sparse throughout the region. One Springs Valley Rec Area visitor advised, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty."
Seasonal closures: Some recreation areas maintain restricted access during certain periods. A visitor discovered, "The campground is closed for overnight camping, but this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreational features: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment options. A Happy Hollow visitor highlighted that "The kids loved the tire swing and tree web. We will definitely be coming back!"
Consider established sites with amenities: When camping with children, access to basic facilities matters. A Newton-Stewart visitor noted it offers "45 spots" with "primitive" but available bathroom facilities.
Plan for water access: Locations near waterways provide natural play opportunities. A family at Old Mill found that "Each site comes with a fire pit and picnic table. Plenty of trees to hang up a hammock and empty space to pitch a tent."
Avoid isolated dispersed sites: Some remote locations may feel uncomfortable for family groups. One Mitchell Creek Road visitor cautioned, "If you are solo female traveler don't even waste your time. After 5 min of driving on the very skinny gravel road y saw what it look like spots but Iam not sure really."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size restrictions: Many camping areas cannot accommodate larger rigs. A Mitchell Creek camper warned, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around."
Check ground conditions: Seasonal precipitation affects accessibility. At Yellowbank Creek, soft soil after rain can create challenges for vehicles attempting to access the primitive sites.
Bring leveling equipment: The terrain throughout the region is naturally uneven. A Happy Hollow visitor noted their experience with a "20' Ford Transit ModVan" and being "nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem."
