Camping areas near Madison, Indiana range from established state parks to riverside city campgrounds within the Ohio River Valley. Madison sits at an elevation of 800 feet with surrounding ridges rising to nearly 1,000 feet, creating terrain variations that affect campsite conditions. Winter lows can drop to 20°F while summer temperatures frequently exceed 85°F, influencing seasonal camping availability.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Madison City Park allows campers direct access to riverside recreation along the Ohio. "This spot is perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture of the historic river town of Madison, Indiana. The campground is managed by the City of Madison and is located on prime Ohio River waterfront," notes reviewer Stephen & Theresa B. The park's proximity to the water makes it easy to watch river traffic throughout the day.
Trail exploration: Charlestown State Park Campground offers several challenging hiking routes beyond those at Clifty Falls. "I love this place, we visit all the time to hike/walk the trails. Very beautiful!!" mentions Elizabeth S. The park features trails ranging from easy walks to rugged paths with significant elevation changes.
Historic sites: The Butler-Turpin State Historic House at General Butler State Resort Park provides educational opportunities during your stay. "The park offers a lodge, cabins, pull through, full hook up, and water/power hook up, primitive spots, and day use shelters," explains reviewer Kyle. The historic house offers a glimpse into regional history not mentioned in downtown Madison options.
What campers like
Modern facilities: Shale Bluff Campground at Hardy Lake receives praise for its well-maintained infrastructure. One reviewer notes, "The sites are spacious with many different types available. I will stay here again, and enjoyed it." The campground features both electric and primitive sites with access to modern bathhouses.
Riverfront views: Watching river traffic becomes a passive activity many campers enjoy. "Relax at your campsite and watch the barges and boats go by. Randy and his wife are your camp hosts and they are friendly and would help you with anything," mentions Paula C. about Madison City Park. The riverside positioning provides constant visual interest not available at inland parks.
Pet-friendly amenities: Follow The River RV Resort offers dedicated facilities for pet owners. "They are pet friendly and allow portable fences," notes Randy P. This accommodation for pets goes beyond standard leash policies found at state parks and provides additional convenience for pet owners.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons aren't the only wildlife concern in the area. "Just be sure if tent camping to hide your trash as wildlife is very brave to get up close and personal with your things," warns Kyle J. at Clifty Falls State Park. Bears aren't present in this region, but smaller mammals actively search for food throughout the night.
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly across parks. "Some sites are not level at all. So be sure to read up on the site you want before you book it," advises Burns G. at Versailles State Park Campground. Sites on ridges or hillsides may require significant leveling equipment.
Off-season conditions: Hardy Lake State Recreation Area maintains year-round access but with limited facilities in winter. "There weren't many people at the campground so it was quiet. There was only one set of open bathrooms in March and they were well kept, clean and functioning," notes Leandra P. Many parks reduce available services during colder months.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Many families appreciate additional water recreation options. "The park is a beautiful park with a nice layout... Bathrooms and camp stores are well stocked/maintained and convenient," shares Kyle from Clifty Falls. Several parks maintain seasonal pools with varying hours and access policies for campers.
Playground options: Two Rivers Campground provides dedicated play areas. "There is a playground for kids, a very nice bathhouse and free WiFi," mentions Bob R. The connected park areas provide additional space for children to explore beyond the campground boundaries.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer structured programs during peak seasons. "The naturalists hosted a very good talk on raptors, with a guest star, a bald eagle," shares Jacob A. from Hardy Lake. These ranger-led activities provide educational content specific to the local ecosystem.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Many campgrounds have varied site dimensions that affect larger rigs. "Very narrow road paved road going back to the campground. Great for tents, pop-up campers and smaller RV's," cautions John S. about Hones Pointe Campground. Some parks have limited turning radius in certain loops.
Seasonal availability: RV sites with full hookups have different seasonal availability than tent-only areas. "The campground is seasonal running from April through October and reservations can be made in advance by email only," explains Stephen & Theresa B. regarding Madison City Park. Water systems at many parks are winterized from November through March.
Utility reliability: Electrical systems sometimes struggle during peak demand periods. "Our wheel blocks were probably placed, but the grade was just too much. We ended up pulling the camper higher up on the blacktop almost in the road and had no issue," shares Rebecca F. about positioning challenges at General Butler State Resort Park.
