Rv parks near New Harmony, Indiana range from state-operated facilities to privately owned campgrounds within a 35-mile radius. The Wabash River runs alongside this historic area, with camping options at elevations between 370-400 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s to low 90s, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Water recreation access: Beall Woods State Park Campground offers a stocked lake for fishing and paddling. According to one camper, it's "a big lake stocked with trout" and "a great place to paddle canoe or kayak around."
Hiking trails: Garden of the Gods Recreation Area features unique rock formations and hiking opportunities. A visitor notes, "The formations are amazing!! We love to hike here in the fall when it's cooler outside and when the leaves are changing it's absolutely beautiful."
Family attractions: The area offers facilities beyond standard camping. Burdette Park outside Evansville includes "BMX track, HUGE swimming pool/water park with slides and several other outdoor activities." Another reviewer mentions they have "everything to keep your family entertained. A pool, mini golf, hiking cabins and so much more."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate room to spread out. At Burdette Park, a reviewer noted "All pads are drive through and very level" with "good spacing between sites, I didn't feel like I was right up on my neighbors."
Wildlife viewing: John James Audubon State Park Campground attracts nature enthusiasts with its namesake connection to the famous ornithologist. The park features "awesome architecture and the feel of old school parks" plus "nice trails" according to reviewers.
Quiet camping options: For those seeking less crowded alternatives to main campgrounds, Beall Woods offers a peaceful experience. A camper noted, "Small, quiet, well maintained campground. Pit toilets. Dump station and drinking water available. We were able to easily find a spot here when all other places were full."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, availability varies widely. At Grayville KOA, one camper recommends planning ahead: "We stayed here on the way to and on the way home from The Kentucky Bourbon Trail. It is a fairly new KOA with so many enjoyable amenities."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Beall Woods, one camper noted concerns: "The star I knocked off was for the pit toilets. They had not been limed in a while as evidenced by the bugs swarming inside the pits and larva swimming in the bottom."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. At John James Audubon State Park, a camper warned: "The campground is layed out parallel to highway 41. The sound of traffic whizzing by on the highway is constant. There are businesses like gas stations and quick marts on the other side of 41 and the lights of those businesses shine into the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: When camping with kids, look for parks with built-in activities. One camper at Burdette Park noted, "They have primitive tent sites RV sites with E&W, some also have sewer. Stay the weekend or up to 3 months or longer."
Size restrictions: Not all rv parks near New Harmony, Indiana accommodate larger rigs. At Murphy Park, a reviewer cautions: "Don't even try it with anything larger than a 20 ft travel trailer. Super convenient. 110v. 15amp electrical. Shared water. Gravel somewhat level pads."
Pet-friendly trail limitations: If traveling with dogs, verify trail access. At John James Audubon State Park, a camper noted: "The only problem that I have with it is if you have a dog there's only one trail that is dog friendly. The campground itself is nice."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal availability: RV camping options vary by season around New Harmony. Grayville KOA offers year-round amenities including "full hookups and shady spots if you ask for one."
Leveling considerations: Many campsites in the region require equipment for leveling. Murphy Park offers "gravel somewhat level pads" while Burdette Park features sites that are "very level."
Full-time considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate longer stays. A reviewer at Burdette Park shared: "Currently we are full timing there. They have maybe 24 full huck up spots and about 10 or so w/o sewer. 30/50 amp electric on all."