Best Dispersed Camping near Plainfield, IN
Dispersed camping opportunities exist within an hour's drive of Plainfield, Indiana, primarily in the Hoosier National Forest. Berry Ridge Road offers multiple primitive campsites spaced far apart, providing excellent privacy and solitude. The Peninsula Trail and Grub Ridge trails feature marked campsites with fire rings only. According to reviews, "The sites are far enough apart that I truly felt like I had the woods all to myself." Hickory Ridge and Horse Camp Road also provide free dispersed camping options in secluded forest settings.
These primitive sites operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis with minimal or no facilities. No drinking water is available; campers must bring all necessary supplies. Fire rings exist at most sites, and gathering dead wood is permitted. Several campers noted that "plenty of dry wood" is available around the campsites. Roads to these areas are typically gravel and may be steep in sections. While some sites are accessible with standard vehicles, others require higher clearance. Parking is limited to 2-3 vehicles per site.
The Deam Wilderness area is considered Indiana's best location for backpacking and backcountry camping. Peninsula Trail campsites (numbered 10-13) are easily accessible with a short hike and offer good stargazing due to low light pollution. Campers report that "light pollution is pretty low, so good stargazing" is possible, though some road noise carries from the main road over the lake. Wildlife includes timber rattlesnakes in valley areas. Sites fill quickly on weekends, particularly the drive-in locations. No reservations are required, but early arrival is recommended during peak seasons to secure preferred locations.
