Dispersed camping near New Pekin, Indiana centers around the Hoosier National Forest, which spans over 200,000 acres across south-central Indiana with elevations ranging from 350 to 800 feet. The forest features limestone formations and seasonal creeks that often run dry in late summer and early fall. Weather conditions vary significantly with high humidity in summer months and unpredictable spring storms requiring proper preparation.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: The Peninsula Trail offers multiple marked campsites that provide privacy and solitude. According to a camper, "There are designated camping sites found in the forest maps" and "Campsites #18 has a great view and is large enough for at least 4 tents if you have a big group."
Water activities: Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping offers spots near a small lake. One visitor notes it's "A quiet little lake/big pond in the Hoosier National Forest with a few spots to camp" and another mentions there are "3ish campsites one of which can accommodate a vehicle."
Wildlife observation: Forests around Jackson Trailhead provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper reports "there's parking after a decrepit gravel road and suitable for camping. There are campsites along the trail just have to find them."
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many campers appreciate the distance between sites at Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping, with one noting "This was a great place to car camp while driving across USA. The main spot was full but I found a great pull off spot a lil further. I came across at least 5 lil spots."
Natural features: Visitors enjoy the geological features throughout the region. A Peninsula Trail user shares, "Springs available in the valleys but watch for timber rattlesnakes."
Night sky viewing: The remote locations offer good stargazing opportunities. A camper at Peninsula Trail notes, "Light pollution is pretty low however, so good stargazing."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require careful navigation on forest roads. A visitor to Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed states, "This is NOT a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land. There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities."
Water availability: Pack extra water, especially in dry seasons. A Peninsula Trail camper advises, "Long walk to the water so make sure you bring plenty of drinking water."
Weather preparation: Spring and fall temperature swings can be significant. Campers should pack for both warm days and cool nights, with one visitor noting wet conditions can make sites "muddy or washed out after several days of rain."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Keep children close on trails due to uneven terrain and wildlife. A Peninsula Trail camper shares, "Went there with my kids and wife, we had a really great time. Primitive camping at its finest."
Trail difficulty: Choose hiking routes appropriate for children's abilities. A Knobstone Trail visitor explains, "The KT is rugged and has lots of elevation gains over short distances. Everywhere you hike there are lovely vistas and lots of fossils on the trail and creek beds."
Site selection for kids: Hickory Ridge Primitive Dispersed Campsites offers more accessible options. A visitor mentions, "I pulled in at midnight in a sedan in the winter and i was able to safely find my way. Very nice drive during the day, hiking is fantastic!"
Tips from RVers
Vehicle limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near New Pekin have significant size restrictions. A Mitchell Creek Road camper cautions, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around."
Road conditions: Gravel and dirt roads can deteriorate after rain. One camper at Sundance Lake notes, "I wouldn't be trying to pull a travel trailer back into here unless it was very small."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as most sites aren't graded. A visitor to Horse Camp Rd Dispersed simply states it's a "Cool place" but doesn't provide details about the terrain.
