RV campgrounds near North Salem, Indiana sit within the rolling hills of Hendricks County. Nearby Sugar Creek winds through the region, creating varied terrain and natural recreation areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during camping season, with occasional thunderstorms common in late afternoon.
What to Do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental LLC offers catch-and-release fishing at their two on-site ponds. "The pond is stocked with GIANT fish (catch and release only)," notes camper Gretchen G.
Hiking trails: Shades State Park Campground features challenging terrain and scenic overlooks. "Deep ravines and moderate to rugged trails encompass the area," writes Rebecca J. Most trails require sturdy footwear and water bottles, especially during summer months.
Canoeing and tubing: Turkey Run State Park Campground provides easy access to Sugar Creek for water activities. "Sugar Creek is also great for floating with inner tubes, canoes, or kayaks," mentions Joel R. Rentals are available at nearby outfitters with trips ranging from 1-4 hours depending on water levels.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area receives high marks for maintenance. "Bathroom facilities are very clean, new bike, walking, rollerblading path. Beach is large and clean," shares Jill W.
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds feature mature tree canopies that provide relief from summer heat. "The campground is nicely shaded. Spots are gravel and cater to various types of camping," notes Hannah S. about Crawfordsville KOA.
Recreation options: Local campgrounds offer diverse activities beyond hiking. "We had a blast hiking Shades State Park and nearby Turkey Run State Park. We enjoyed that not every site was packed and we had some privacy," reports Micah N.
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "Great place to camp, can be flooded at times, some of the sites have a huge inclines or declines," warns Dave R. about Raccoon Cecil M Harden Lake.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "No cell service but who needs it!" mentions Joe M. about camping at Cecil M Harden Lake.
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends fill quickly at rv campgrounds in North Salem. "Allot of sites reserved way in advanced. There is a few pull throughs, no water hook ups at site," notes Dave R.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: S and H Campground offers extensive children's activities. "They have a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds! Campground big and spacious," shares Nick W.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "There is a pool which looked clean and well maintained," mentions Jessica D. about S and H Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Turkey Run State Park Campground has abundant wildlife that children enjoy spotting. "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything," warns Samantha S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on rig size and levelness requirements. "Due to the age of the wiring they do not allow 50 to 30 AMP adapters," according to some rv campgrounds near North Salem.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist at most campgrounds. "We had site 94, which was right next to the bathhouse. It had almost a whole extra campsite's worth of space next to it for my kids to run around. It also had a tree for shade and was nice and level," reports Kaley A. about Turkey Run.
Hookup locations: Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental LLC offers various hookup configurations. "SCC has about 50 full hook sites and several electric and water. There is quite a few primitive areas as well," notes Adam W.
Surface conditions: Most rv campgrounds in the North Salem area have gravel pads. "Sites are accessible, the bathrooms are AMAZING (no...seriously), the little attractions are adorable and the host is terrific," mentions Linda R. about Cloverdale RV Park.
