Tent campsites near Lebanon, Indiana offer both secluded forest experiences and lake-based recreation within a 45-minute drive. The region features primarily flat to gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 800-950 feet, creating tent sites that often require careful placement to avoid sloping ground. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during peak camping season, with spring and fall bringing cooler nights around 45-60°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort provides convenient lake access with camping sites positioned near fishing areas. "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum. The lake is fabulous," notes reviewer Debbie S., though she adds "there didn't seem to be too many fish available for catching!!"
Hiking trails: Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers extensive trail networks for day hikers. "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," explains Ron H.
Paddling access: French Post Park provides direct water access for paddlers. "A boat camp right into the water," mentions Sammii D., making it ideal for kayakers and canoeists wanting to combine water activities with tent camping.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping: Campers consistently mention the lower usage levels compared to state parks. "When tent camping and want something quiet and a place with great trails, this is a good place to go," says Ginger T. about Oak Ridge Camping Area.
Availability without reservations: Lake Waveland Park offers accessible primitive camping without advance booking. "The primitive sites are very secluded and quite but get there fast because spots are first come first serve!" notes Sydni T. This makes it suitable for spontaneous weekend camping trips.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the natural settings without excessive development. "There are dozens of sites here, drive past the shower house where road bends to the left and down hill. The sites aren't marked, but are indicated by picnic table and fire ring, though fire rings are not always present. Huge area is reasonably well mowed. This is a lovely space with lots of birds to observe," shares William David S.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Many camping areas near Lebanon require careful site selection. "I was slightly disappointed by the site selections being mostly on a slant, but we did find one on the overfill site that suited our needs and we ended up loving it," reports rickie F. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Limited facilities: Rattlesnake campground offers truly primitive experiences with minimal amenities. "primitive only no drinking water at campgrounds," cautions nicole B. Plan accordingly by bringing sufficient water supplies.
Seasonal considerations: Most tent camping areas operate with limited services during off-seasons. Randy A. notes about Lake Waveland that "Lake Waveland's grounds crew does a very good job keeping the property in order," but many maintenance services like regular mowing only operate during prime camping months.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Clovis Creek provides accessible tent camping for families new to outdoor recreation. With 20 designated sites, picnic tables, and allowances for pets, it creates a comfortable introduction to tent camping for families.
Playground access: French Post Park includes playground facilities adjacent to camping areas. Sammii D. describes it as "a beginner place to go camping. Easy for families with young kids. They have a tent camping section in one area with rooms to leave cars... A playground." This makes it suitable for keeping younger children entertained.
Special events: Lake Waveland offers family-oriented seasonal activities. "Fireworks in July and Halloween for the whole family in October," mentions nicole B., providing additional entertainment beyond standard camping.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Small RVs and pop-ups can access some sites, but large rigs face significant challenges. "My wife and were at site 15 from 09/02/21- 09/06/21 camping in a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108 TB. This park is not for large rigs, but we had no trouble fitting into our small camper," explains Don N. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Limited hookups: RV campers should prepare for predominantly primitive camping. Ron H. cautions that "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."
Self-sufficiency requirements: Generator use policies vary by campground. Most tent camping areas near Lebanon require RVers to be self-sufficient. "Even though it's hot outside today, there's lots of shade and a breeze," notes Ginger T., highlighting the importance of natural cooling rather than hookups for air conditioning.
