Camping options near McCordsville, Indiana range from basic tent sites to comprehensive RV resorts within a 25-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level with terrain consisting mostly of flat farmland interspersed with small creeks and wooded areas. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October, though a few offer year-round availability with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort offers lakefront access where families can enjoy recreational fishing. "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum. The lake is fabulous," notes one camper, though they mentioned fish weren't particularly abundant during their stay.
Trail exploration: White River Campground provides access to multiple hiking paths. "This is a great campsite attached to a wonderful park with great trails," shares one visitor. The campground connects to a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river and links to additional trail networks.
Historical sites: Mounds State Park Campground offers educational opportunities with its Native American earthworks. "There are programs offered also at the nature center," mentions one camper. "We only stayed 2 nights and managed to walk all the trails and spend time at the actual mounds," another visitor reports, noting the compact nature of the park makes it possible to explore thoroughly in a short visit.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers praise the maintenance standards at campgrounds in the area. At White River Campground, visitors consistently mention the upkeep: "Very clean and efficient bathrooms. I especially like the roomy sites."
Water features: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Indianapolis East receives positive feedback for its aquatic amenities. "Wide pull through spots with fire pits, picnic tables and plenty of grass. Tons to do with the kids, organized activities are well done," reports one camper. The park includes water recreation options suitable for various age groups.
Convenience to attractions: Indianapolis KOA serves as a practical base for exploring the greater Indianapolis area. "Used this campground as a home base to visit downtown Indy. 20 minutes to downtown attractions," notes one visitor, highlighting its strategic location for tourists wanting to experience both camping and urban amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near McCordsville follow a similar pattern, typically opening in April and closing by late October. Some exceptions include the State Fairgrounds Campground, which operates year-round but has limited amenities according to visitors: "Nothing special about this campground. Is there when you need it for an event."
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds are situated near major roadways, creating accessibility but also potential noise issues. One camper at Glo Wood Campground noted: "Several spots for tent camping, but several electric hookups were not functional. The only real problem we encountered was the dirt road through the site was difficult to navigate, even though it hadn't rained for a few days."
Reservation recommendations: S and H Campground and other popular sites often fill completely during summer weekends. With 450 sites, S and H is one of the largest in the region but still requires advance planning. "Very big campground. They have a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds! Campground big and spacious," notes one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Aquatic activities: Jellystone Park offers water recreation specifically designed for children. "Clean, fun and family friendly. Tons to do with the kids, organized activities are well done. Staff stays on top of everything and is super helpful," shares one visitor. Their splash pad and pool areas provide supervised water play options.
Animal interactions: S and H Campground includes opportunities for children to see farm animals. "Brought my kids here. Now I bring my Granddaughters. 50 yrs. speaks Volume. Love it. Kids stay busy!" reports a long-term visitor, highlighting the multi-generational appeal.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, Mystic Waters Campground provides cabin rentals as alternatives to tent camping. "It was our first night in our brand new RV. Our first RV. Wendy was awesome! She helped with the reservation, she greeted us when we arrived," notes one visitor about the supportive staff for camping newcomers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Glo Wood Campground receives mixed reviews regarding site preparation. One RVer noted: "Our spot, like all around us was very long and nice, wide space between campers. We camped with a 38 foot travel trailer and a 20 foot Ford F250, and still had room."
Utility connections: Indianapolis KOA provides comprehensive hookups but some visitors note variation in reliability. "Everything you would expect from a KOA: clean, easy in-and-out, all the amenities. Wi-fi worked, cable didn't (but they did try to help us out - we had the wrong cable)," reports one RVer.
Proximity to services: Most campgrounds near McCordsville offer convenient access to supplies. White River Campground is "within 15 minutes small town Indiana (Cicero) complete with a small town grocery and dollar general. Within 20 minutes or Walmart and Grocery stores," allowing RVers to easily resupply during longer stays.
