Plainfield, Indiana camping areas offer several options within 40 miles of town, set among the rolling hills and waterways of central Indiana. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 700-900 feet, with Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area providing lake access at 690 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: Turkey Run State Park Campground offers unique terrain unusual for Indiana. "There are lots of inclines and steps, not much of it was extremely easy hiking, but we did see lots of families with kids doing just fine," notes Maggie M. The park features box canyons and stream beds for more adventurous hikers.
Water recreation options: Many sites provide water access for cooling off during hot summer days. "We stayed for 4 nights and it was very quiet and relaxing... Our site had a nice grass lawn near the water," writes Todd L. about Lake Haven Retreat. Canoeing and fishing are popular at several locations, with rental options available at some parks.
Archery practice: Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area maintains an archery range for visitors. "We love camping here! Lots to do. Love the archery range," shares Nicole B. The area also includes hiking trails rated as less rugged than other parks in the region.
What campers like
Clean facilities and consistent maintenance: Indianapolis KOA receives praise for its upkeep. "Very friendly staff. This was our first ever outing with our class A. The grounds were clean and safe," reports Michelle M. Bathroom and shower facilities at many locations stay open 24 hours for camper convenience.
Proximity to Indianapolis attractions: Several campgrounds provide easy access to city amenities while maintaining a camping atmosphere. "This campground is minutes away from Luca Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. For an urban campground, it is better than others," says Scott P. about Lake Haven Retreat. Most urban-adjacent sites are within 20-30 minutes of downtown.
Site spacing and privacy variations: Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers more secluded options. "This is probably the best state forest in the state of Indiana. The property is well maintained... Each campground has pit toilets and wash station with water available to take to camp site," explains Ron H. Many campers appreciate the self-registration system for flexibility.
What you should know
Seasonal operations and weather considerations: Not all campgrounds operate year-round, with some closed during winter months. "Indianapolis KOA welcomes pets at their tent sites, RV spaces, and cabins with full hookups, while maintaining clean facilities that remain open 24 hours," mentions an Indianapolis KOA reviewer. Check ahead as seasonal closures vary by location.
Wildlife awareness needed: Multiple sites report active wildlife, particularly raccoons. "Be prepared for the Raccoons and tons of fun! Beautiful lake with several nearby places to rent boats!" warns Sharon T. at Raccoon Lake. Proper food storage is essential at all area campgrounds.
Reservation requirements vary: Some locations operate on first-come systems while others require advance booking. "When you arrive set up at your site. Then you will need to go WITH EXACT CHANGE to sign in at the main building," explains Rob R. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Holiday weekends typically require reservations weeks or months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and recreation access: Kid-friendly amenities differ significantly between locations. "The perks of this KOA are a very nice playground and wading pool area. So if you have younger children, ideal for you," shares Shelly S. Splash pads and shallow water features provide safer alternatives to lake swimming for younger children.
Site selection for level ground: Lieber State Recreation Area Campground offers various site configurations. "Although our campsite was large, there was absolutely no privacy. It was as if we were camping in a field. The site was grassy and clean," notes Amy C. Families with tents should check site grading before booking.
Dog-friendly trails and facilities: Most area campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "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," explains Samantha S. about Turkey Run's pet policies. Always check leash requirements and restricted areas before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites. "We stayed at site #35. It is in a very quiet, off the main road, in a circle, in full shade. The site was very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end," reports Michelle M. about Turkey Run State Park.
Size restrictions at some locations: Acacia Farms provides cabin accommodations in a small farm setting. "Acacia Farms is an awesome spot to slow down in the country and enjoy being around some small farm animals," notes Jake C. For RVers, Morgan-Monroe State Forest has limitations: "We are RV campers and there are only about 5 sites we could get into. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight getting in and out of the campground."
Hook-up availability: Water and electric access varies widely between parks. "Great sites. Lots of activities for families... Very social campground, but respectful and quiet after dark," shares Brett B. about Lieber State Recreation Area. Most parks offer electric service, but water hookups directly at sites are less common.
