Tent campsites near Paoli, Indiana offer remote forest experiences in the Hoosier National Forest. Most sites sit at elevations between 600-900 feet, with the area experiencing mild springs and falls, hot summers, and cold winters with occasional snow. Many camping locations require gravel road access that can become challenging after rain, with several sites positioned along creek beds that may be seasonally dry.
What to do
Kayaking at Springs Valley Rec Area: While overnight camping is no longer available, the lake provides excellent paddling opportunities. According to a visitor, "the campground is closed for overnight camping, but this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. electric motors only, so nice and quiet."
Explore caves and geodes: Within driving distance of Charles C. Deam Wilderness, visitors can discover unique geological features. One camper noted, "I had the awesome experience to hammock camp on the Patton cave trail, along the creek that winds the length of that trail. The cave is amazing... I have never encountered so many geodes in my life."
Swimming at Monroe Lake: Many primitive sites are located within hiking distance of Monroe Lake. A visitor to Ransburg Scout Reservation mentioned, "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails."
What campers like
Secluded forest camping: Berry Ridge Road offers true dispersed camping experiences away from crowds. A camper explained, "There are a couple walking trails around, as well each site is fairly far apart. It's really quite only seen a handful of cars drive by and I've stayed here for 2 nights."
Hammock-friendly sites: Many Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping locations feature trees perfectly spaced for hammocks. "Nice size site with fire ring and picnic table. Lots of trees- so great tree canopy and plenty of hammock," a camper shared.
Access to hiking trails: The region offers numerous trail options connecting camping areas. At Charles C. Deam Wilderness, a visitor reported, "The trails are well paved and marked, not too strenuous. So many beautiful trees and plants to see, plus lots of creeks to walk through."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping spots require total self-sufficiency. At Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed, a camper clarified, "This is a bare bones location. There was evidence of a homemade fire pit and a small cleared area. No cell service at the site but there was a bar or two on the road just a few feet away."
Weather considerations: The area can become muddy after rain, making access difficult. A Berry Ridge camper advised, "I would not bring a RV here especially after rain."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife includes various species that may visit campsites. One Berry Ridge visitor noted, "Just trees knocking, bugs curling and frogs croaking. Did see a rattlesnake dead on the road."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established amenities: Happy Hollow Homestead offers more developed options for families. A visitor shared, "We stayed over the Memorial Day holiday with our kid and another couple. We were all impressed with the land and how spaced out the camp sites were. The kids loved the tire swing and tree web."
Pack insect protection: Bugs can be prevalent during warmer months. A visitor to Charles C. Deam Wilderness warned, "I would also bring bug spray and check for ticks!"
Water planning: Few sites offer drinking water access. One experienced camper advised, "Refill your water when you come across it; the lake is harder to get to than you think."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive tent campsites near Paoli have tight access roads. A Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping visitor noted, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around. One pull off was nearly too small to turn around my small pick up truck."
Consider smaller conversions: Some vans can access more remote areas. As one camper explained, "I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site, however the road was gravel and steep at times."
Navigation challenges: Paper maps are essential as cell service is unreliable. A camper recommended, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty."
