Turkey Run State Park encompasses deep ravines, distinctive sandstone gorges, and natural features formed by glacial meltwater. Located in north-central Indiana approximately 45 miles west of Indianapolis, the park offers diverse camping options for nature enthusiasts. Sites are distributed across several loops with varying terrain and vegetation density, with electric hookups available throughout most camping areas.
What to do
Canoeing on Sugar Creek: Sugar Creek flows through Turkey Run State Park, offering visitors excellent canoeing opportunities. "Turkey Run State Park is a huge campground (over 200 sites) just north of Terre Haute. There are lots of trails that offers hikers plenty of opportunities. Sugar Creek runs through the park for fishing and canoeing. The suspension footbridge across Sugar Creek is cool. Sugar Creek is also great for floating with inner tubes, canoes, or kayaks," notes Joel R. from Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Hiking on challenging trails: The park features several rugged trails that provide unique terrain. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," shares Samantha S. Some trails follow stream beds and require climbing wooden ladders.
Horse riding opportunities: For equestrian camping near North Salem, Indiana, Yellowwood State Forest offers dedicated facilities. "Horse camping is also available in 12 class c sites in the Horseman Camp with miles of horse trails," states Stephen & Theresa B. The forest provides multiple trail options for riders of various experience levels.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Campers frequently mention the privacy found in wooded sites. "We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167," notes Samantha S. from Turkey Run State Park Campground. Many reviewers recommend selecting sites that back up to woods for additional separation from other campers.
Clean facilities: "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," reports Samantha S. This sentiment is echoed across multiple campgrounds in the region, including Johnson County Park where Janet F. notes, "Very quiet and peaceful!! Clean bathrooms/showers!!! Park is nice and clean too!!"
Waterfront activities: Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort offers lakefront camping opportunities. "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum. The lake is fabulous," shares Debbie S., highlighting water recreation options beyond the state park system.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region have uneven terrain. "It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end. The site was huge but given the unevenness it would be difficult for tents," explains Michelle M. about Turkey Run State Park. Similar terrain challenges exist at Yellowwood State Forest.
Wildlife encounters: Turkey Run campers frequently mention wildlife. "As some other reviews stated, watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything," warns Samantha S. Food storage precautions are essential at all regional campgrounds.
Primitive options: Yellowwood State Forest offers basic camping with minimal amenities. "Yellowwood State Forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change(cash)," advises Daisy C., highlighting the rustic nature of this camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Select appropriate trails: When camping with children, choose trails matching their abilities. "We hiked Trail 3, which has the ladders, and parts of trail 10, 4, and 2. Trail 10 was nothing special but was relatively flat," reports Kaley A. from Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Consider corner sites: Corner sites often provide additional space for children. "Booked late for this one but ended up with a great corner spot in the middle of a turn off from the main drive," shares Monica C., highlighting how site selection impacts family camping experiences.
Weekday visits reduce crowds: For families wanting more space on trails and in camp, timing matters. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon," recommends Samantha S., noting that Saturday brings significantly higher visitation.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Most sites at Turkey Run Canoe & Camping offer electrical connections. "Nice campground electric hookups my 34' travel trailer fit nicely," reports Napoleon H., though some reviewers note challenges with shared electrical posts between sites.
Site selection for larger rigs: The campgrounds vary in accessibility for bigger RVs. "This park is perfect for tent camping or smaller units; we would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel and may challenge your maneuvering skills!" advises Stephen & Theresa B. about Yellowwood State Forest.
Limited sewer connections: Full-hookup sites are scarce in the North Salem area. Most campgrounds offer dump stations instead of direct sewer connections, requiring planning for longer stays. "The only amenity not available is Sewage Hookup but they offer a dump instead," notes Nomon K. about Johnson County Park.
Legend
