The Richmond area offers diverse camping options in eastern Indiana, with a mix of state parks and private campgrounds. Situated near the Whitewater River valley at approximately 965 feet elevation, this region features rolling terrain and hardwood forests. Seasonal rainfall can create muddy conditions at some campgrounds, especially during spring months.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Natural Springs Resort features a spring-fed quarry with clear water that provides a refreshing alternative to typical lake swimming. "The lake is nice and clear, pretty cold (would love to feel it in August or September). Fun to jump into and overall pretty," reports one visitor to Natural Springs Resort.
Trail exploration: Hueston Woods State Park offers multiple hiking and mountain biking trails surrounding its reservoir. "There were several marked trails near the reservoir area. We did not have time to walk any trails, but talked with mountain bikers that spoke favorably," notes one reviewer at Hueston Woods State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Brookville Lake provides numerous fishing spots with convenient shoreline access. "Huge lake for boating" and "great lake life camping" are common themes at Brookville, where many campers bring watercraft or enjoy the sandy beach for swimming and paddleboarding.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Summit Lake State Park offers well-spaced camping areas, particularly in certain loops. "Stayed in 76, beautiful spot with lots of tree cover... though sites are very close together and it's a popular campground so there isn't much privacy," notes a hammock camper at Summit Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Grandpas Farm Camp Ground consistently receives high marks for its well-maintained shower facilities. A recent visitor noted, "We took advantage of the crystal clear pool, immaculate shower facilities, pretty stream and wonderfully kind owners" at Grandpas Farm Camp Ground.
Family-friendly amenities: Many Richmond-area campgrounds offer specific features for children. At Dayton KOA, one reviewer appreciated that "It has a pool and lots of kids activities. Gravel roads aren't great for small kids learning to ride bikes but ok for older kids and adults."
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds near Richmond can experience traffic noise due to interstate proximity. At Richmond KOA, a camper reported it's "really close to the highway and LOUD! I like to hear nature when I came to destress not semis all night long."
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds feature tightly packed sites while others offer more breathing room. At Natural Springs Resort, one camper noted sites were "like a sardine can with trees" while another described it as "parking lot style camping."
Winter accessibility: While the majority of dog friendly campgrounds near Richmond close seasonally, several remain open year-round. Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground maintains standard state park pet regulations during all seasons and offers full-service camping options even in colder months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Grandpas Farm provides substantial play areas for children. One camper noted, "The owners are super nice, they have a nice pool and the playground is really big!"
Beach alternatives: If campground beaches are crowded, consider the swimming areas at Hueston Woods. "The beach is a short distance away and love that they also include a dog swimming area," reports a tent camper, making this a good option for pet-friendly family outings.
Activity planning: Schedule around weekend events at some campgrounds. At Hueston Woods, a reviewer observed, "Unknowingly, it appeared every weekend in October has a big Halloween emphasis, so the upper campground was sold out."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the Richmond area require significant leveling equipment. At Summit Lake, a camper reported, "Our site was a pull through and, while level left to right, required a good bit of leveling front to back."
Hookup limitations: Full-service sites can be scarce at state parks. At Brookville Lake, an RVer noted, "Lots of electric site - only negative was there were very few full hook up sites so need to reserve those early."
Maneuverability concerns: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. At Deer Ridge Camping Resort, the owners are noted for being "so helpful" and have been known to assist with "leveling and hooking up to site," which is particularly valuable for first-time trailer owners.
