Are you in need of a campground near Santa Claus, IN? Santa Claus is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Santa Claus, IN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Immerse yourself in the magic of America's Christmas Hometown with a stay at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, formerly known as Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort. Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of southern Indiana, our resort offers a range of unforgettable camping and lodging experiences that cater to families of all sizes.
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, a two-time National RV Park of the Year, is nestled in the captivating town of Santa Claus. Discover spacious RV and tent sites, charming vacation rentals, and breathtaking scenery.
Experience an extraordinary stay with incredible amenities and activities. Dive into Santa's SplashDown WaterPark, make a splash at Blitzen Bay pool, and enjoy miniature golf. Treat yourself at our snack bar, let your furry friends play in the dog park, and embrace outdoor adventures like fishing, paddle boating, and scenic trails. Explore Santa Claus' magical attractions, including Santa's Candy Castle and the Santa Claus Christmas Store, with Holiday World Theme Park nearby.
Create cherished memories and embrace the joy and wonder of Santa Claus at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. Your adventure awaits!
$45 - $101 / night
With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake campground is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR. Camping: -Electric / 455 sites -Primitive / 45 sites -Dumping Station
$33 / night
The Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area is a tranquil getaway in the midst of the Hoosier National Forest. Both the Celina and Indian Lakes are within the area, offering camping, boating, fishing and hiking, as well as tours of a historic site.
Indian and Celina lakes are two of four fishing lakes along Highway 37. The lakes offer many miles of shoreline and coves for fishing for pan fish. Boat ramps are open year-round, and an accessible fishing pier is available on Celina Lake. Anglers can expect a variety of catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The sandstone block, historic Rickenbaugh House was built in 1874 and is open to visitors periodically throughout the year. The home and adjacent historic cemetery are popular among visitors. A variety of hiking trails exist within the area, including the relatively easy, 1 mile Rickenbaugh Interpretive Trail, which is located behind the historic Rickenbaugh House. The Two Lakes Loop National Recreation Trail encircles both Indian and Celina lakes and winds through many acres of natural and peaceful forests. The trail is 16 miles, but can encompass multiple, shorter day hikes.
The area is located in south-central Indiana, in a dense hardwood and pine forest, on 152-acre Indian and 164-acre Celina lakes. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin Buffalo Trace Carnes Mill Site Clover Lick Barrens Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower Initial Point Lick Creek African American Settlement The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead Wesley Chapel Gulf
$35 / night
$17 - $140 / night
The Saddle Lake Recreation Area was one of four that was associated with flood control lakes built along the Middle Fork of the Anderson River. Saddle Lake has a primitive campground, a boat ramp, and a hiking trail. This scenic, somewhat remote lake is an excellent place to get away from crowds and you will often have the place to yourself!
A 13 site campground, 2.4 mile hiking trail around Saddle Lake, and a boat ramp are available within this Recreation Area.____
A 13 site campground, 2.4 mile hiking trail around Saddle Lake, and a boat ramp are available within this Recreation Area.____
Views of Saddle Lake, hardwoods and conifers, and nature viewing.__
$5 / night
The Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area is located on the shores of its namesake lake in south-central Indiana's Hoosier National Forest. It offers camping, picnic areas, boating, swimming, hiking, biking and educational programs. Visitors enjoy the scenic views of the forest and all it has to offer.
Boating, fishing and swimming in the lake are popular activities. Electric motors are allowed, and fishing for pan fish is considered excellent. The boat ramp and parking area is open year-round. A beautiful swimming beach with playground equipment and a modern bathhouse is also available. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun or a shady, grass-covered hillside. A 5.9-mile trail for hiking and mountain biking runs from the day-use area around the lake. The trail includes scenic overlooks of the lake and valley and traverses a variety of forest types. A trail permit is available for purchase and is required for mountain bikers age 17 and older.
The campground is adjacent to 131-acre Tipsaw Lake, in a hardwood and pine forest. Situated at an elevation of 380 feet, the campground is composed of five loops that offer dozens of campsites. Some sites are shaded and the roads are paved.
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin Buffalo Trace Carnes Mill Site Clover Lick Barrens Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower Initial Point Lick Creek African American Settlement The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead Wesley Chapel Gulf
$47 - $70 / night
Sycamore Springs’ 250 acres are home to 10 shelter houses, numerous playgrounds, fishing ponds, a softball field, basketball court, wedding chapel, 35 tent camping sites and 64 RV camping sites. As a bonus, firewood is free for campers. Sycamore Springs is family friendly (alcohol is not allowed) and offers sites for all types of camping. Water views are available and there are fire pits on all sites. Camping cabins are offered at a discounted rate during the week, and the fully furnished House of Annie & Bud also awaits.
A scenic location for hiking and camping. Parking areas are available at the first trailhead access and at the picnic/camping spur. Tables, grills, garbage can, info board and a vault toilet are available at the camping area. A scenic overlook and benches are located on the bluffs overlooking the Ohio River. Water is not available on site.
This site offers rustic camping, scenic views and wildlife viewing. An ardous 0.5 mile trail from the bluff to the banks of the Ohio River is available.____
This site offers rustic camping, scenic views and wildlife viewing. An ardous 0.5 mile trail from the bluff to the banks of the Ohio River is available.____
Sandstone rock outcrops, bluffs, hardwood forest, and a scenic overlook platform with views of the Ohio River and Kentucky.
Immerse yourself in the magic of America's Christmas Hometown with a stay at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, formerly known as Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort. Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of southern Indiana, our resort offers a range of unforgettable camping and lodging experiences that cater to families of all sizes.
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, a two-time National RV Park of the Year, is nestled in the captivating town of Santa Claus. Discover spacious RV and tent sites, charming vacation rentals, and breathtaking scenery.
Experience an extraordinary stay with incredible amenities and activities. Dive into Santa's SplashDown WaterPark, make a splash at Blitzen Bay pool, and enjoy miniature golf. Treat yourself at our snack bar, let your furry friends play in the dog park, and embrace outdoor adventures like fishing, paddle boating, and scenic trails. Explore Santa Claus' magical attractions, including Santa's Candy Castle and the Santa Claus Christmas Store, with Holiday World Theme Park nearby.
Create cherished memories and embrace the joy and wonder of Santa Claus at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. Your adventure awaits!
$45 - $101 / night
With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake campground is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR. Camping: -Electric / 455 sites -Primitive / 45 sites -Dumping Station
$33 / night
The Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area is a tranquil getaway in the midst of the Hoosier National Forest. Both the Celina and Indian Lakes are within the area, offering camping, boating, fishing and hiking, as well as tours of a historic site.
Indian and Celina lakes are two of four fishing lakes along Highway 37. The lakes offer many miles of shoreline and coves for fishing for pan fish. Boat ramps are open year-round, and an accessible fishing pier is available on Celina Lake. Anglers can expect a variety of catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The sandstone block, historic Rickenbaugh House was built in 1874 and is open to visitors periodically throughout the year. The home and adjacent historic cemetery are popular among visitors. A variety of hiking trails exist within the area, including the relatively easy, 1 mile Rickenbaugh Interpretive Trail, which is located behind the historic Rickenbaugh House. The Two Lakes Loop National Recreation Trail encircles both Indian and Celina lakes and winds through many acres of natural and peaceful forests. The trail is 16 miles, but can encompass multiple, shorter day hikes.
The area is located in south-central Indiana, in a dense hardwood and pine forest, on 152-acre Indian and 164-acre Celina lakes. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin Buffalo Trace Carnes Mill Site Clover Lick Barrens Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower Initial Point Lick Creek African American Settlement The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead Wesley Chapel Gulf
$35 / night
The Saddle Lake Recreation Area was one of four that was associated with flood control lakes built along the Middle Fork of the Anderson River. Saddle Lake has a primitive campground, a boat ramp, and a hiking trail. This scenic, somewhat remote lake is an excellent place to get away from crowds and you will often have the place to yourself!
A 13 site campground, 2.4 mile hiking trail around Saddle Lake, and a boat ramp are available within this Recreation Area.____
A 13 site campground, 2.4 mile hiking trail around Saddle Lake, and a boat ramp are available within this Recreation Area.____
Views of Saddle Lake, hardwoods and conifers, and nature viewing.__
$5 / night
Guide
Obannon Overall, this is a nice state park to camp in. Staff was very friendly. They have ice and wood. My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails.
We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they’re still not too far from the bathrooms and playground. The better playground is in loop A.
I will say, I didn’t see any staff members cleaning up trash, getting campsites ready, or anything the 2 days we were there. Even though we went in November, it was a nice weekend and wasn’t dead, so I was surprised I didn’t see anyone cleaning. Wasn’t the cleanest state campground we’ve been at in Indiana. Certainly wasn’t awful though either.
My biggest gripe was they were hosting a huge cycling group. Like the whole loop A. We were all the way back in C. They held a concert that went on from like 8-11 pm. Being in a pop up, it was so loud and never ending. Made it difficult for my kids to sleep. If they’re going to hold (or allow) events like these, it should be posted on their website. Even with our sound machine, we still couldn’t block it out. I realize quiet hours aren’t until 11, but to me there’s a difference.
There is also hardly any signage and spots are difficult to find. No arrows about which way to go, signs saying which loop you’re in, and spots are only marked on the electrical boxes.
Overall, may stay again and try out the pool since we’re not too far from home, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to stay here.
Guide
Stayed 2 nights. Great campground. Clean restrooms and showers. Staff very friendly and helpful. Only complaint was the sites were a little unlevel, not terrible though.
Guide
Rest stops leading up to this RV spot were under construction. This was a last minute decision. It was late and I didn’t want to drive in the dark anymore. The price is HIGH. With discounts for goodsam and loves connect it was $50/night for 30 amp. The dog park at this loves is very nice and the spaces are okay. But it’s loud all night because it’s a truck stop. I like the idea of this for loves but the price needs to reflect it. $25/night. No one is staying longer than that and it’s a better deal.
LegendLincoln State Park in Southern Indiana. About as far South as you can go! (In Indiana!). We did a weekend visit.
150 electric sites. There's 30 & 50 Amp sites with water at each site!
6 handicap sites. There are NO pull through sites.
The best sites are by Lake Lincoln- 40 & 41. 39 is ok, but all 3 of these sites are in the sun most of the day. Also, 40 & 41 are not ON the lake. Trail 1 & a wide grassy area are before the water. The only advantage IMO is an unobstructed view of the water & a short walk to the lake.
The sites seemed short, but people were able to park very large rigs in them. Check the site dimensions before booking or call the office to make sure you'll fit.
There's a large primitive campground. They have a modern bath house with showers. Some cabins.
There's 2 bath houses in the electric side with flush toilets & showers. Very clean for a state park!
A double dump station.
6 trails from easy to moderate. The longest is 3.7 miles.
Boating & fishing are popular, but electric motor only. There's boat rental.
There's a beach, but closed after Labor Day. The camp store is in the pavilion by the beach & has limited hours after Labor Day.
There's a small nature center.
Lots of history in the park & in the area. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is directly across the road from the state park
. Santa Claus Indiana& Holiday World are nearby.
Traveler
Registration was easy on the town website. My camping spot was right on the lake and it was beautiful. I would definitely camp here again. There was some road noise, but that's to be expected due to being close to a highway and it wasn't too much for me. I slept just fine.
Scout
Quiet. Friendly helpful staf.
Scout
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph View all Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph 4.2(1.2K) OVERVIEW PRICES REVIEWS PHOTOS BY OWNER ABOUT Google review summary 5 4 3 2 1 4.2(1,185) Reviews All cabin184 golf cart167 water slides45 mattress41+6 Sort by Most relevant Newest Highest Lowest ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues… More Stephanie S Local Guide·167 reviews·4193 photos a week ago NEW Our first trip here. We absolutely loved it. All of the staff is very friendly. The park is very clean and we looked out with good neighbors. Golf carts are available to rent and they have golf cart light parades a few… More Video 1 in review by Stephanie S Photo 2 in review by Stephanie S Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a week ago Stephanie, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay and all the amenities our park has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you back for another fantastic visit! Ryan Levasseur Local Guide·19 reviews·12 photos 4 days ago NEW It's so rare to find a place that you wish you would have booked one more night.… More Photo 1 in review by Ryan Levasseur Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) 3 days ago Hi Ryan, thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We are thrilled to hear that you had such a great time during your mini vacation at our campground. It's fantastic to know that you enjoyed the nostalgia, amenities, and activities we offer. We hope to welcome you back soon! Shelbey Sledge 1 review a month ago We stayed from Friday-Monday and 10/10 recommend. We stayed in a tent camp site. Having electric and water was nice. The bathrooms near 119K were personal bathrooms with a shower, toilet, and sink. So much better than a community bathroom.… More Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a month ago Shelbey, thank you for sharing such a detailed review of your experience at our campsite! We are thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time and enjoyed the amenities provided. Your feedback about the lack of hanging space is duly noted, and we will look into improving that aspect. ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues but they will not respond I am now on the March for safety and action. I will post on every social media method possible. I asked for their legal contact but they have chosen to ignore. I was handed a spray can for ants and spiders with the message this has a bad smell. Other posts will give more gruesome details Rooms: 1/5| Service: 1/5| Location: 3/5
Guide
This is a great family campground with excellent amenities, clean sites and grounds, beautiful surroundings, multiple cabins, pavilions, and a welcoming host office. We would love to visit and stay again. Do not let the short rural entry drive deter you. Yes it's hilly and curvy but take it slow and careful I promise it's worth it. Free firewood is just a bonus. Get a shady spot and enjoy the stay.
RangerWe went up in June 2024. There are several spots that are in the shade, but some of them are permanent campers. There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground. Golf carts are available to rent, and I feel are a necessity to get around this large park. There are also large fields to play in. Didn’t use the bath house. The general store has ice and a few souvenirs. There is cell service (AT&T and Verizon) There is also free wood. They have really cool spiral steps that lead up to a walk bridge. They also have a donkey and goats to pet. Altogether a really nice and clean park. Will definitely go again.
TravelerHad the typical state park experience. Bathrooms are decent, a little dated but oh well. The weekends in the middle middle of the season are typically busy. Plan your site well, many lack a level spot for tents and have a lot of slope near the pull off.
Traveler
Overall this campground is peaceful, but very crowded with a lot of spots in one area. I was lucky enough to book a double spot that had some space between the other campsites with a good view of the lake. Great amenities.
ScoutThe bathrooms are dirty, showers are full of hair, the toilets are dirty, staff can be rude, not a lot to do besides walk/drive around, not a very fun park if u was to bring ur kids to it, there’s not much to see. I wouldn’t waste ur take time comming here and instead go to a better park that’s much better
Scout
Besides picking the only weekend where the camp had plumbing issues… my 4 year old daughter and I loved this place. This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down! The rangers were very nice and was pleased to answer any of my questions, the lake and bathrooms were clean and the place was nice and quiet. I’ll be back again.
TravelerThis is the third time we have stayed here.
ScoutI have tried to contact corporate and been ignored.. We stayed at the Rudolph campsite in Santa Claus Indiana like I stated before we would like a refund for one night and one night of the golf cart as we wound up leaving. the toilet seat was cracked, which pinched me and one of my Children left marks, there were also mouse droppings in the drawer where the silverware was and stains on the sheets. I have pictures of all this and since nobody has contacting us, I will give it until Monday morning and then I will have my attorney contact them with all the pictures since they don’t want to do anything about this and then I will also be posting with the Better Business Bureau and attaching all the pictures.
Scout
I once gave this locarion a 5 star review that I've since deleted. This was our 3rd visit. With new owners, much cutback on staff and available hours for activities. Why oh why do you close a main attraction, go carts and pizza, during the week and cut hours of go carts when they ARE open??? I'd been communicating with stsff and had expressed our grandson's excitement to return to the go carts. THAT was the perfect opportunity to tell me o substantially reduced hours. This campground caters to seasonal campers. They don't all respect quiet hours are zipping around on golf carts partying. We won't return.
Guide
We timed this 0ne Right! Found Hoosier National Park website wasn't available, we arrived seeking 1st come 1st served... and got it! 👍 Thank You, LORD!
Scout
We are group camp from lds church I needs 3 days over there
Scout
The chorus frog do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people.
Guide
We stayed here on a guys trip in April 2024. It was easy to find, had a self-serve pay tube, and since it's a primitive campground they had no electricity, showers or flush toilets (but they did have decent pit toilets). It rained quite a bit the few days prior to us arriving so some of the fire pits at the sites had standing water. You cannot make reservations so plan accordingly, but when we arrived Friday afternoon we were the only people there. There is no camp host and they do not provide firewood onsite. We had a hard time finding any in Tell City but finally got some at Tractor Supply. We also found a bunch at the host at the Tipsaw Campground a short drive away. We were at site 19 and pitched 3 tents, and it was tight quarters but doable. The trails were very nice, but the rain that occurred prior to our arrival made for several soft spots and some "fun" creek crossings. We also encountered several ticks, so plan accordingly. Generally I would not hesitate to go back here.
Traveler
We stayed at Miles Landing the weekend leading up to the Solar Eclipse in April 2024. Everyone was pleasant. Managment provided viewing glasses and arranged for a food truck.
Guide
Smaller campground with many older run down campers that are likely full time living here. All sites are pull through, and within 2 feet of the drive. Good spacing between sites, I didn’t feel like I was right up on my neighbors
Scout
Spot has a creek and is flat enough for a tent mostly just a single person spot no toilets. Road south coming in was destroyed some time ago have to w yer from east or west road.
Scout
Patoka Lake has become our go-to campground for many reasons. The nature center is a delightful feature, offering a serene escape into the beauty of the surrounding area. The spacious campsites add to the allure, providing ample room for relaxation and enjoyment. It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site. During our visit over fall break, the Halloween festivities and trick-or-treating added an extra layer of fun to our experience. We also had the pleasure of exploring the local winery and brewery, which were a big hit with our group. The abundance of activities at this state park ensures there's never a dull moment. However, it's important to exercise caution due to the high volume of boats in and out of the campground. Parents with small children should be especially vigilant, as vehicles towing trailers with boats are constantly coming and going. Despite this, our love for Patoka Lake remains unwavering. It's truly a special place that we look forward to returning to time and time again.
Scout
What a gem of a park! From the stunning trails to the pristine lake, this place is a nature lover's paradise. The shower facilities are top-notch, ensuring a comfortable stay for all campers. One thing to note is the strict parking rule at camp sites, but don't worry, there's overflow parking available for visitors. It's enforced for everyone's safety and convenience. The highlight for many is the petting zoo—an absolute must-visit for campers of all ages. It's a fantastic experience that adds an extra layer of fun to your stay. While there's no on-site camp store, fret not! You're just a short drive away from a local dollar store and the famous Tastee Freeze. Trust me, their ice cream is out of this world, and the food is equally delightful. I highly recommend treating yourself to a visit. Overall, this park offers everything you need for a memorable camping experience. Can't wait to visit again!
ScoutNice campground, but the prices are high, even higher during the Halloween season. They need to reconsider their prices.
Guide
Very clean area with restrooms. There is very limited spaces that are pretty close together. There actually wasn’t any camp grounds open when we got there but we were so exhausted from the drive and it was 4am so we parking at the trail head and got a 3 hour nap in. I walked a bit of the trail that morning and used the bathrooms. Perfect little spot if you don’t mind people and want a dispersed spot. Not running water or electricity. Att service was ok
Camping near Santa Claus, Indiana, offers a mix of fun activities and beautiful nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Santa Claus, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Santa Claus, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Claus, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 77 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Claus, IN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Santa Claus, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Claus, IN is Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph with a 3.9-star rating from 33 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Claus, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Claus, IN.
What parks are near Santa Claus, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Santa Claus, IN that allow camping, notably Patoka Lake and Rough River Lake.
