Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area sits along the banks of a 2,060-acre reservoir in west-central Indiana, approximately 17 miles from Reelsville. The region features rolling hills with elevation changes of 100-200 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Summer temperatures average 81-84°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions and occasional rainfall of 3-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area offers excellent fishing in its large reservoir. "Great place to camp, can be flooded at times, some of the sites have a huge inclines or declines," notes one visitor. The lake supports populations of bass, crappie, and catfish.
Trail exploration: Hiking paths range from easy lakeside walks to moderately challenging wooded routes. "There is a new bike, walking, rollerblading path. Beach is large and clean," reports a camper. Trails average 1-2 miles in length with connecting loops.
Beach activities: The recreation area maintains a swimming beach open May through September. "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," shares a visitor who stayed Thursday through Sunday.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Taylor Ridge Campground earns praise for its maintenance. "The pit toilets were probably the cleanest pits I've ever used. Bonus that there are dedicated mens/womens pits. The shower house at the top of the loop was dated but completely adequate with hot water," one camper observed.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report deer sightings throughout the region. At Buffalo Ridge Campground, one visitor noted, "We saw a black bear at dusk digging through a garbage can at one of the picnic areas along the parks interior roads - black bears are reported as not being present in the park."
Secluded camping: For those seeking privacy, select campgrounds offer more isolated options. "The sites around us were spacious and had a lot of mature trees," reported a visitor to Brown County State Park, while another noted, "We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect. Lots of wildlife, so pack your food up right."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies widely across rv campgrounds near Reelsville, Indiana. "No cell service but who needs it!" mentioned one visitor to Raccoon Lake. Areas closer to towns typically maintain better connectivity.
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds feature variable terrain. At Raccoon Ridge Campground, "Some spots are uneven and tight, but also some very large (back of loop and some of the spots on side of loop in the front)." Research site maps before booking.
Seasonal fluctuations: Fall brings increased visitor numbers to the region's state parks. "The park is gigantic! It takes a long time to get from the entrance of the park to the actual campground, but the drive is beautiful," notes one Brown County visitor, suggesting earlier reservations during peak foliage season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Happy Campers Campground offers fishing and play areas on a more intimate scale. "One of my favorite places to stay. 5 full hook up, one cozy cabin, and plenty of room for tents," mentions a regular visitor. The lake is stocked for fishing.
Nature programs: State parks host ranger-led activities for children. "We visited the nature center which was nothing spectacular but still something nice to do," explains one camper. Programs typically run weekends and daily during summer months.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter, less challenging paths. "The hiking trails were pretty, not very rugged. Scenery was nice on the trails," shares a camper from Cecil M Harden Lake, noting these are appropriate for most ages and abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campgrounds around Reelsville, Indiana require preparation for uneven terrain. "The sites were level. Great place to stop overnight or for a few days. Can hear the highway; but it's not very loud or intrusive," notes one RVer about Happy Campers Campground.
Utility connections: Horsemen's Campground provides electrical options but limited water. "Most of the sites also have electric hook-up, although water spigots are few and far between," notes a visitor, suggesting campers fill tanks before arrival.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have entry restrictions. At Buffalo Ridge, one RVer warned, "The north entrance is through a covered bridge with a 9 foot clearance and 3 ton limit! Otherwise, use the easily accessible west entrance, just a few miles 'around the corner.'" Always confirm route accessibility before departure.
