Camping options near Reelsville, Indiana range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV camping across several state parks and private campgrounds. The area sits within the rolling hills of west-central Indiana at approximately 650 feet elevation, with Sugar Creek creating a scenic corridor through limestone canyons. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions and colorful seasonal changes.
What to do
Hiking through canyons: Turkey Run State Park offers challenging trails through 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," notes a visitor to Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide good fishing conditions throughout the camping season. According to one camper at Cagles Mill Lake, "It is a DNR state operated and has some pretty cool fishing. There are rapids by a huge ridge near the lake."
Disc golf courses: Outdoor recreation extends beyond water activities at several campgrounds. A visitor to Rockville Lake County Park mentioned, "The disc golf course is awesome, in the woods, up and down ravine. 18 holes plus practice basket. Hole 1 starts by primitive sites closer to beach. Ask for a disc golf map at gatehouse."
Water recreation: Creek and lake access provide swimming and boating options. "Be prepared for the Raccoons and tons of fun! Beautiful lake with several nearby places to rent boats! Beautiful, peaceful campsites with a lot of shade!" reports a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for their restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," notes a visitor to Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Spacious, shaded sites: Campers appreciate room between sites at many locations. "The sites are all flat—ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park," explains a camper at Shakamak State Park Campground.
Nature viewing: Wildlife observation opportunities enhance the camping experience. One camper at Sugar Creek Campground mentioned, "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows. And definitely take time to float or kayak down the river. The pond is stocked with GIANT fish (catch and release only)."
Camp store access: On-site supplies prove convenient for forgotten items. "There's a small camp store for basic necessities, firewood for sale as well and hot showers!" reports a visitor to Sugar Creek Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We really enjoyed our visit to Raccoon Lake. Plenty of places to hike, awesome beach, clean restrooms. No cell service but who needs it!" shares a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons frequently visit campsites in the region. A Turkey Run visitor warned, "As some other reviews stated, watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything."
Seasonal flooding: Water levels affect campsite availability. "Great place to camp, can be flooded at times, some of the sites have a huge inclines or declines, allot of sites reserved way in advanced," notes a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake.
Primitive camping availability: Options exist for those seeking more rustic experiences. A Morgan Monroe State Forest visitor explained, "If you're looking for free and solitary sites try the backwoods camping area for the low gap trail there's a parking lot there."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Swimming areas provide recreation for children. "Bathroom facilities are very clean, new bike, walking, rollerblading path. Beach is large and clean. We go every year and love it!" reports a visitor to Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment. "I loved this camp ground, there was a beach which was nice and a building to get food. They have a basketball court, and a few trails. We stayed Thurs thru Sunday and had a very nice time," notes a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake.
Wooded sites for privacy: Families appreciate natural separation between campsites. "We took our van and stayed at Turkey Run for a three night weekend. 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," advises a Turkey Run visitor.
Glamping options near Reelsville: For families seeking comfort without tent setup, glamping close to Reelsville, Indiana provides an alternative. Cloverdale RV Park offers glamping accommodations with one visitor noting, "Adorable little hideaway. Hosts were super! Campground is peaceful and scenic."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "Most of the spaces that had both water and electric were mostly in the sun. But all the other spaces had plenty of shade and trees around them. Our space was spot on level and nice area around each space," notes a visitor to Shakamak State Park Campground.
Hookup locations: Electric connections may require extension cords at some campgrounds. "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit—the electric box is in an awkward place," warns a Shakamak State Park camper.
Site selection for larger RVs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger rigs. One camper at Turkey Run Canoe & Camping shared, "Site 91 was tucked away in a more forested area away from RVs. Did a nice kayaking loop using their service. Had everything you needed, very chill experience."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. A Morgan Monroe State Forest camper noted, "The only drawbacks were that the vault toilets are in pretty bad condition and the dump station hose did not have a connection to allow me to flush the blackwater holding tank."
