Harmonie State Park Campground offers camping options near Mount Vernon, Indiana, approximately 20 miles from the city. The park features 200 electric-only sites with dedicated recreation areas. A significant wildlife presence includes raccoons frequently visiting campsites after dark, requiring food to be secured properly. Summer temperatures in this region regularly exceed 90°F, making shaded sites particularly valuable during peak season.
What to do
Explore historic New Harmony: This quaint town near Harmonie State Park Campground provides cultural attractions. "New Harmony is a great place to vacation with family. The state park is gorgeous. The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants," notes Jamie B.
Visit water recreation areas: The Olympic-sized swimming pool at Harmonie provides summer cooling options. "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," according to Olivia S.
Take advantage of Halloween events: Fall camping includes special activities. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween... They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot... There was also a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire," shares Nichole M.
What campers like
Clean facilities with consistent maintenance: Burdette Park offers well-maintained infrastructure. "Wonderful camp managers!" reports Barry B., who mentions, "All pads are drive through and very level."
Nature center activities: The educational opportunities at Harmonie State Park appeal to families. "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer," explains Olivia S.
Trail variety for different skill levels: Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground provides exceptional hiking opportunities. "The rock formations are surreal and shoulder season is so quiet! We will be back as the hiking is awesome," writes a visitor named Ellen.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters require preparation: Expect animal activity beyond raccoons. At John James Audubon State Park Campground, "the sound of traffic whizzing by on the highway is constant" according to Laura E., indicating noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Most sites are big and spacious," mentions Olivia S. about Harmonie, while at Burdette Park, one camper noted it was "Cramped, hookups mis-placed and generally older."
Weather impacts camping experience: Summer heat and insects require planning. Bring appropriate repellents, especially during summer months when gnats and mosquitoes are prevalent in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pine Ridge (Pounds Hollow Recreation Area) offers multiple recreation options. "A great, centralized location for quite a few natural wonders and a hop, skip, and a jump away from quite a few more!" writes Brian E.
Pool facilities for hot days: Swimming options provide relief from summer heat. "They have a fun fall festival around halloween. Nature center and nice swimming pool for the kids," Keith M. shares about Harmonie.
Weekend event planning: Schedule around special activities. "They have various events through the summer season with a big Halloween event in the fall," notes Olivia S., suggesting families check event calendars before booking.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Vanderburgh 4H Campground offers complete services. "Level pull through FHU clean nice afternoon shade. The sites are nearby but feels more roomy than it is," reports Robert O., highlighting the full hookup availability.
Rig size considerations: Not all dog friendly campgrounds near Mount Vernon accommodate larger vehicles. "This campsite is very well kept. There are paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails," mentions Dave C., describing Harmonie's accessibility features.
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds permit longer visits. Barry B. notes about Burdette Park: "Stay the weekend or up to 3 months or longer," making it suitable for travelers needing pet-friendly campsites near Mount Vernon for extended periods.
