Best Camping near Mitchell, IN

Mitchell is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Mitchell campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Mitchell, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Mitchell, IN (129)

    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Mill State Park Campground

    1. Spring Mill State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    90 Photos
    129 Saves
    Mitchell, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Patoka Lake Campground

    2. Patoka Lake Campground

    35 Reviews
    79 Photos
    166 Saves
    Birdseye, Indiana

    With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake campground is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR. Camping: -Electric / 455 sites -Primitive / 45 sites -Dumping Station

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge

    3. Hardin Ridge

    25 Reviews
    61 Photos
    210 Saves
    Heltonville, Indiana

    Overview

    Hardin Ridge is a 1,200-acre recreational complex located on the shores of Monroe Reservoir in Hooiser National Forest. The complex includes six shady campground loops, two picnic areas with shelters, and two rental cabins. The area offers something for everyone, with activities like camping, picnicking, boat launching, swimming, nature walks, and interpretive programs offered in a forested environment.

    Recreation

    A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp.

    Natural Features

    Monroe Reservoir spans 10,750-acres and is the largest lake in Indiana. There is an overlook on Hardin Ridge Road that is spectacular in any season and gives visitors a high vantage point of the lake, colorful marinas across the water and a vast expanse of forest. The entire area is forested with hardwoods and is well-shaded to give visitors the feel of being in the deep woods. In spring, the dogwoods and redbuds bring bright color to the forest and in fall, the foliage offers colors in vibrant hues of yellow, orange and red.

    Nearby Attractions

    Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin Buffalo Trace Carnes Mill Site Clover Lick Barrens Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower Initial Point Lick Creek African American Settlement The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead Wesley Chapel Gulf

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground

    4. Paynetown Campground

    29 Reviews
    99 Photos
    183 Saves
    Clear Creek, Indiana

    This recreation area is part of Monroe Lake

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Market
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starve Hollow State Rec Area

    5. Starve Hollow State Rec Area

    25 Reviews
    86 Photos
    142 Saves
    Vallonia, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    6. Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    21 Reviews
    32 Photos
    1 Save
    Heltonville, Indiana

    Overview

    The camp is located along Tower Ridge Road in the center of the Charles Deam Wilderness area, approximately one mile from Highway 446. The camp also is a trailhead for the Charles C. Deam Wilderness trail system.____

    Recreation

    Blackwell is a campground for all types of users. It provides access to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Trail system with approximately 35 miles of trails. The nearby Hickory Ridge Trail system is also available.

    Facilities

    Blackwell is a campground for all types of users. It provides access to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Trail system with approximately 35 miles of trails. The nearby Hickory Ridge Trail system is also available.

    Natural Features

    The camp is a large grassy area with gravel parking areas on the east and west end. The trailheads are located on the east and west ends of the camp by the parking areas.__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park

    9. Sycamore Springs Park

    16 Reviews
    75 Photos
    137 Saves
    English, Indiana

    Sycamore Springs’ 250 acres are home to 10 shelter houses, numerous playgrounds, fishing ponds, a softball field, basketball court, wedding chapel, 35 tent camping sites and 64 RV camping sites. As a bonus, firewood is free for campers. Sycamore Springs is family friendly (alcohol is not allowed) and offers sites for all types of camping. Water views are available and there are fire pits on all sites. Camping cabins are offered at a discounted rate during the week, and the fully furnished House of Annie & Bud also awaits.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
Showing results 1-10 of 129 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Mitchell

Recent Reviews in Mitchell

718 Reviews of 129 Mitchell Campgrounds


  • Amanda D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park

    Brown County State Park stay

    The site we stayed in was lovely. It was backed up to the edge of the woods which made for a lovely view. Driving through the campground it looks like there are some sites pretty close together but ours wasn’t too bad. I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you’re booking as some were pretty small. Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well. This site was a slight slope and overall I would book it again. We have a full size truck with a small travel trailer that fit perfectly. Camp store was stocked nicely. Staff was friendly. The campground itself was very quiet and you could enjoy being out in nature. The site was walking distance from showers/bathroom. The park as a whole is beautiful and there’s a trailhead that’s walking distance from the campsite that leads down a beautiful trail to a lake.

  • Kelsey R.
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Nov. 3, 2024

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Shaded and secluded

    Obannon Overall, this is a nice state park to camp in. Staff was very friendly. They have ice and wood. My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails.

    We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they’re still not too far from the bathrooms and playground. The better playground is in loop A.

    I will say, I didn’t see any staff members cleaning up trash, getting campsites ready, or anything the 2 days we were there. Even though we went in November, it was a nice weekend and wasn’t dead, so I was surprised I didn’t see anyone cleaning. Wasn’t the cleanest state campground we’ve been at in Indiana. Certainly wasn’t awful though either.

    My biggest gripe was they were hosting a huge cycling group. Like the whole loop A. We were all the way back in C. They held a concert that went on from like 8-11 pm. Being in a pop up, it was so loud and never ending. Made it difficult for my kids to sleep. If they’re going to hold (or allow) events like these, it should be posted on their website. Even with our sound machine, we still couldn’t block it out. I realize quiet hours aren’t until 11, but to me there’s a difference.

    There is also hardly any signage and spots are difficult to find. No arrows about which way to go, signs saying which loop you’re in, and spots are only marked on the electrical boxes.

    Overall, may stay again and try out the pool since we’re not too far from home, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to stay here.

  • Betsy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Large, open, and very clean

    Open areas with pit toilets and water available. Shade and sunny locations. Pick a spot and set up with hammock-large rvs spots. No fee, no reservations, no problems. Officers from federal, state, and local patrol. Cell service by various providers is 1-2 bars. Highly recommend.

  • Kelsey R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Deam Lake State Rec Area

    Nice

    This is a nice campground. We went on a weekend in July and it was as pretty busy, as to be expected. Because of that, we didn’t visit the beach area, however my in laws did and they said it was nice. They swam and kayaked. Staff is friendly. Facilities are pretty clean, nothing to write home about. Didn’t use the showers. My sons enjoyed the nature center. This is the closest state park to us, so I’m sure we will be back. Be sure to stop in town for ice cream.

  • Noah Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    Great for casual/experienced camping and hiking

    A staple of our state here in Indiana. Unfortunately due to some storm damage, trails were rerouted or straight up inaccessible.

    Great places to find and set up camp. We even discovered a few extra hidden sites just by being forced off trails due to the damage.

    Every dispersed camper should add the hikes to the lake to their checklist.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839

    Last minute

    Rest stops leading up to this RV spot were under construction. This was a last minute decision. It was late and I didn’t want to drive in the dark anymore. The price is HIGH. With discounts for goodsam and loves connect it was $50/night for 30 amp. The dog park at this loves is very nice and the spaces are okay. But it’s loud all night because it’s a truck stop. I like the idea of this for loves but the price needs to reflect it. $25/night. No one is staying longer than that and it’s a better deal.

  • kenneth D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Weary Traveler
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Weary Traveler

    Great for a quick stop

    This park is great for a one night stay while getting to your destination. Strong WiFi, complete hookups, all pull throughs and easy access!

  • Ron J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    Horrible

    Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph View all Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph 4.2(1.2K) OVERVIEW PRICES REVIEWS PHOTOS BY OWNER ABOUT Google review summary 5 4 3 2 1 4.2(1,185) Reviews All cabin184 golf cart167 water slides45 mattress41+6 Sort by Most relevant Newest Highest Lowest ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues… More Stephanie S Local Guide·167 reviews·4193 photos a week ago NEW Our first trip here. We absolutely loved it. All of the staff is very friendly. The park is very clean and we looked out with good neighbors. Golf carts are available to rent and they have golf cart light parades a few… More Video 1 in review by Stephanie S Photo 2 in review by Stephanie S Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a week ago Stephanie, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay and all the amenities our park has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you back for another fantastic visit! Ryan Levasseur Local Guide·19 reviews·12 photos 4 days ago NEW It's so rare to find a place that you wish you would have booked one more night.… More Photo 1 in review by Ryan Levasseur Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) 3 days ago Hi Ryan, thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We are thrilled to hear that you had such a great time during your mini vacation at our campground. It's fantastic to know that you enjoyed the nostalgia, amenities, and activities we offer. We hope to welcome you back soon! Shelbey Sledge 1 review a month ago We stayed from Friday-Monday and 10/10 recommend. We stayed in a tent camp site. Having electric and water was nice. The bathrooms near 119K were personal bathrooms with a shower, toilet, and sink. So much better than a community bathroom.… More Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a month ago Shelbey, thank you for sharing such a detailed review of your experience at our campsite! We are thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time and enjoyed the amenities provided. Your feedback about the lack of hanging space is duly noted, and we will look into improving that aspect. ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues but they will not respond I am now on the March for safety and action. I will post on every social media method possible. I asked for their legal contact but they have chosen to ignore. I was handed a spray can for ants and spiders with the message this has a bad smell. Other posts will give more gruesome details Rooms: 1/5| Service: 1/5| Location: 3/5

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Washington State Forest
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Jackson Washington State Forest

    Great primitive campground

    Spacious sites. Beautiful forest. Quiet, but only 5 minutes small town with gas stations, grocery, etc. Not many amenities. Only pit toilets and water spigots. Firewood was not available during our visit. No reservations. First come first serve, but even on a "busy" Saturday in July less than 1/3 of the sites were full. Two "loops" one in a pine forest below the small lake and one at the lake/up the hill. Multiple playgrounds. Great trails to hike. Cool CCC construction. Highly recommend.

  • JASON L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Sycamore Springs Park

    Great camping with enjoyable amenities

    This is a great family campground with excellent amenities, clean sites and grounds, beautiful surroundings, multiple cabins, pavilions, and a welcoming host office. We would love to visit and stay again. Do not let the short rural entry drive deter you. Yes it's hilly and curvy but take it slow and careful I promise it's worth it. Free firewood is just a bonus. Get a shady spot and enjoy the stay.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Sycamore Springs Park

    Child’s paradise !

    We went up in June 2024. There are several spots that are in the shade, but some of them are permanent campers. There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground. Golf carts are available to rent, and I feel are a necessity to get around this large park. There are also large fields to play in. Didn’t use the bath house. The general store has ice and a few souvenirs. There is cell service (AT&T and Verizon) There is also free wood. They have really cool spiral steps that lead up to a walk bridge. They also have a donkey and goats to pet. Altogether a really nice and clean park. Will definitely go again.

  • Nathan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Jul. 13, 2024

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Decent campground, best on weekdays

    Had the typical state park experience. Bathrooms are decent, a little dated but oh well. The weekends in the middle middle of the season are typically busy. Plan your site well, many lack a level spot for tents and have a lot of slope near the pull off.

  • Josie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Spacious Camping

    We really liked the set up of this campsite. The fire rings were spread apart amidst a green hill. There was some shade available around the edges. Plenty of room to spread out from your neighbors; it wasn’t too busy when we were there (a Thursday). Camp accesses two trailheads directly. There were two bathrooms, a place for garbage, and potable water. Screech owls and active birds made it an exciting evening.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Buckwood
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Camp Buckwood

    Very Nice and Freindly

    Stayed two nights, tent camping. It was a great time meeting new people and exploring the surrounding area.

  • Billy B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Springs Park
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Sycamore Springs Park

    Bad campground

    The bathrooms are dirty, showers are full of hair, the toilets are dirty, staff can be rude, not a lot to do besides walk/drive around, not a very fun park if u was to bring ur kids to it, there’s not much to see. I wouldn’t waste ur take time comming here and instead go to a better park that’s much better

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tipsaw Lake
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Tipsaw Lake

    Great Camp Spot for Families

    Besides picking the only weekend where the camp had plumbing issues… my 4 year old daughter and I loved this place. This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down! The rangers were very nice and was pleased to answer any of my questions, the lake and bathrooms were clean and the place was nice and quiet. I’ll be back again.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    Secluded in the woods

    Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site. I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site, however the road was gravel and steep at times. I have lived in Indiana for ever and have made many trips this way, but I never knew sites like this existed.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park

    Meh

     First off- Brown County is a lovely park. This review is only for the campground. 

    The only time we ever camped here was in 2003 when we had 3 kids & a popup. New to the park I thought the Racoon Ridge Loop looked good & picked site 121. Bad mistake! We stayed 3 nights & every night we had a weird thing happen. The worst was the bat that found it's way into the popup one night. None of it was in any way Brown County's fault, but we never went back. 

    We were staying at Paynetown recently & decided to visit Brown County & the campground. The mirror tag helped with this. We visited on a Saturday morning in late June. The whole campground was full & it was jumpin'!

     We skipped Buffalo Ridge. Raccoon Ridge is the smallest loop. Close sites. Our former site 121 has a pit toilet right next to it now. There's several sites along the main road, also very close to each other & right on the road.

     I thought that Taylor Ridge was the best loop based on my memories from 2003. It's really a long warren of close sites, some with terrible inclines.

     I was able to write down a few sites I thought would work- Sites with no one close by: 193/194/266. 

    265 was the only pull thru I saw, but there may be others. 

    End of loop: 317/318 

    Ridge view from your site: 310/311/312/313/314 

    Random sites that looked ok: 179/188/215/223/225/242/259/260/265/277/280/287/422- these sites are just what I eyeballed while the husband was cruising down the main road. 

    We decided we were never going to camp here again. The sites are too close together. There's too many people crammed in a small space. If you go be aware that summer weekends & leaf peeper season will be very busy. The middle of the week or shoulder season would probably be your best bet for a more relaxing experience.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellowwood State Forest
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Yellowwood State Forest

    Just did a drive thru

     This is a State Forest campground near Nashville, Indiana. Primitive camping. Pit toilets only. This is by Yellowwood Lake, so boating & fishing opportunities. 

    All these sites are first come, first serve. No reservations. 

    There's a Forest Office with area information & a small display. 

    There's several trails of varying length. 

    Believe it or not- gold panning is a thing here! You need a permit.

    They rent boats at the Forest Office. Electric motor only.

     There's several camping loops. There's a horse camp also. 

    The boat ramp is near the horse camp loop.

     We didn't go down the Red Pine Loop, but did check out White Oak/Redbud& Black Gum.

     Hickory loop is right off the road & the sites are visible from the road. They looked nicely spaced.

    White oak loop had several nice sites. Redbud is close to a building they call a camp store. It may have been many years ago, but not open now.

     Several picnic spots by the lake. The best site in Redbud would be 39. Large site with some shade. I would also say 38, but site 37 is directly behind it. This is the camp host spot, so occupied. These sites are near the pit toilets.

    The best spot in Black Gum would be site 75. Large site at the end of the loop & right by the lake.

     If you go back to Hwy 46 where the road split on your way in, follow the sign to the dam. Just a large earthen dam, but there's trail heads here. There's the Scarce O' Fat Trail which has been mentioned on the Facebook Indiana Hiking page.

    $13 per night regular camping.$16 per night for horseman's.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Ridge
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Hardin Ridge

    National Forest

     We did a drive through to check out the campground. It was $8 for day use, self pay.

    This is a beautiful campground. There's 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric.

     Well spaced all tucked into the trees on a ridge. Also some carry in sites.

     If we tented camped still I'd be in heaven! 

    You can reserve sites, or some are first come first served.

    Shower/restroom with pit toilets scattered around. 

    3 trails. A beach, picnic areas& a boat launch. 

    This seems less popular than Paynetown, but a lot quieter!!

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Paynetown Campground

    Crazy busy on a summer weekend

     This is a SRA on the shores of Lake Monroe by Bloomington Indiana. This is a boating/fishing park. We went on a hot weekend the 4rth weekend in June & it was completely full. 

    There's only 3 short trails. The longest is 1.25 miles. Not a hiking park. 

    There's a visitor center off State Road 446. This is NOT a nature center! Just a place to pick up some information. 

    The marina & boat launch get the most use. There's also a beach. 

    There's a large Class B campground closer to the marina. There's some pit toilets & one flush toilet building. No showers. No electricity.

     There's a large dump station. 

    The electric campground has 227 sites. 3 are handicap accessible. There's also 27 pull throughs. Many have lake access due to camper made trails to the lake.

    We had site 137 which was a good site due to the fact we had no one on the left. There was a woods view.

    Many of these sites have a bad incline & people were putting their rigs sideways on the site close to the road. Our site was no exception, but we were able to make it work. This site also had afternoon sun.

     Restrooms/showers were state park clean. I was impressed with the hard working staff trying their best to give us a clean bathroom!

     The best sites in the campground are 171/172& 153/154. These have a lot of sun, but a stellar view of the lake. 

    132-137 have a trail to the lake. Very bad inclines though. 

    120-124 have trails to the lake & are in the woods. 

    103 is a large site& fairly even with lots of shade. 

    The sites from 180-227 are asphalt with concrete pads. The rest of the campground is gravel. 

    There's 4 carry in campsites for tents that looked very nice. Campsites in the E area have access to a sandy peninsula that was very popular for swimmers. 

    This is known in Indiana as a party park. There's some truth to that. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend. If you like a quieter experience come Monday through Wed. or wait until the off season.



Guide to Mitchell

Camping near Mitchell, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Clifty Falls State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The wooded hiking trails helped keep us comfortable," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Patoka Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, "The beach was muddy and shallow, but the lake was beautiful!"
  • Historical Exploration: Visit the historic Rose Island Theme Park while camping at Charlestown State Park Campground. A reviewer shared, "Great hiking opportunities and cool exploration of historic Rose Island."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Paynetown Campground. One reviewer said, "Restrooms/showers were state park clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Starve Hollow State Rec Area. A visitor mentioned, "Full hook up sites that are well spread out so you are not on top of each other."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the friendly staff at Hardin Ridge. One reviewer stated, "Staff are very friendly and helpful," making for a welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know

  • Busy Weekends: If you plan to camp at Paynetown Campground, be prepared for crowds. One camper noted, "This is known in Indiana as a party park," especially on summer weekends.
  • Uneven Sites: At Spring Mill State Park Campground, some sites can be unlevel. A visitor mentioned, "It is mostly uneven and the shaded loop is very unlevel."
  • Limited Cell Service: Campers at Buffalo Ridge Campground have reported poor cell service. One reviewer said, "Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility," which can be tricky.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Lake Rudolph Campground is a great option for families. One camper shared, "Having electric and water was nice," making it easier for families with kids.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities like hiking and fishing. A visitor at Patoka Lake Campground mentioned, "The abundance of activities at this state park ensures there's never a dull moment."
  • Keep an Eye on Kids: At Starve Hollow State Rec Area, be cautious of the water. One reviewer advised, "Parents with small children should be especially vigilant."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: RVers at Taylor Ridge Campground recommend checking site levels. One camper noted, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Many RVers suggest bringing leveling blocks for uneven sites. A visitor at Buffalo Ridge Campground mentioned, "Be sure to check pad size. Several sites have 20' or so."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you're camping during peak season, be prepared for busy campgrounds. A reviewer at Paynetown Campground said, "It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend."

Camping around Mitchell, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Mitchell, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Mitchell, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 129 campgrounds and RV parks near Mitchell, IN and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Mitchell, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mitchell, IN is Spring Mill State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 22 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mitchell, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Mitchell, IN.

  • What parks are near Mitchell, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Mitchell, IN that allow camping, notably Hoosier National Forest and Monroe Lake.