Camping spots near Laurel, Indiana feature a mix of water-based recreation and woodland environments at elevations ranging from 850 to 950 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows typically reaching the low 20s. Most campgrounds in the area sit on formerly glaciated land, creating both hilly terrain and flatter camping areas within the same vicinity.
What to do
Water recreation at Brookville Lake: Multiple no-wake zones for paddling and fishing areas along this 5,260-acre reservoir. "This is a clean and well maintained camp ground. If you are looking to get close to the lake life this is a great spot for it. You will find many campers are here to enjoy the lake with their watercraft or at the big sandy beach for swimming and paddle boarding," notes a visitor to Mounds State Recreation Area.
Horseback riding trails: Designated equestrian areas with starting points directly from horse campgrounds. "I came here and stayed in my tent (family had their horse trailer with camper) for a night during the chilly nights of October. I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out," says a camper at Whitewater Memorial State Park.
Mountain biking: Technical single track trails with creek crossings and switchbacks available seasonally. As one visitor describes, "I descended over 1,000 feet in the first 4 miles. There was a lot of climbing, technical single track, switchbacks, rocky creek crossings and some roots. The trees keep it cool even in 80 degree weather."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campsites offer 20-30 yard widths with direct river access. A camper at Morgan's Outdoor Adventures shares, "We loved the views of Morgan's. Steps away from gorgeous river views. There is nothing like waking up and making breakfast while watching the river roll by!"
Off-season tranquility: Camping during April-May or September-October offers fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. "Stopped here for one night on our way to Michigan. Drove around looking at all the sites, wrote down numbers of sites we'd like to stay at (near bathrooms). Decided to come back for 12 days after our trip. Many sites to choose from."
Private swimming areas: Beyond the main beaches, several campgrounds offer secluded water access points. "This is a great place to swim, very quiet. There are plenty of places for picnics and a nice campground," mentions a visitor to Hueston Woods State Park.
What you should know
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring leveling equipment. "The camp sites are black topped but narrow and short. More problematic is that most have slopes. A few too steep to level a trailer."
Weekend noise levels: Expect increased activity on weekends with potential noise from golf carts and music. "The only negative things I encountered while staying at this campground were the loud golf carts with their music blasting until late at night on the weekends. It seems like the same person would just cruise up and down the roads all evening," reports a camper at Indian Lakes RV Campground.
Limited full hookup availability: Reserve full hookup sites 3-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "Very cute town of Brookville for shopping and or rafting on the nearby river. Campground very clean w/ lots of bath/shower locations. Lots of electric site - only negative was there were very few full hook up sites so need to reserve those early."
Tips for camping with families
Beach alternatives: Multiple no-wake coves offer safer swimming than main beach areas. "Lots of fun for the family, huge lake for boating."
Playground proximity: Some campgrounds have playgrounds positioned away from camping loops. "Cons: hard to get a site next to the playground - it's kinda out of the way."
Wildlife education: Watch for raccoons and use camping as teaching opportunity about respecting wildlife. "Watch out for the raccoons they are pretty aggressive and were all over our campsite. Clearly they are used to getting handouts, so keep your foodstuffs in you vehicle or well secured," advises a visitor to Hidden Paradise Campground.
Tips from RVers
Maneuvering constraints: Many campground roads have tight 90-degree turns with limited backing space. "Oddly the roads were one way but all of the sites were at 90 degrees from the narrow road making it difficult to back in."
Site width variations: Check site dimensions before booking for larger rigs over 35 feet. "Pretty level, plenty of room for our 43' fifth wheel. We didn't swim but the beach looked nice. We did fish a little."
Site drainage considerations: Avoid booking during rainy periods in low-lying areas. "Loved our site - lots of trees for hanging a hammock and very roomy! Wouldn't book during rain though - I think it would be super muddy."
