Best Campgrounds near Santa Claus, IN

Several good camping spots can be found near Santa Claus, Indiana, all reached by decent roads. Spring Mill State Park Campground draws many families with its well-maintained sites and basic facilities. The hiking trails start right from the campground, giving you easy ways to see the park. Lake Lincoln Campground at Lincoln State Park is another option where you'll find clean bathrooms and shower buildings. The lake there works well for fishing, swimming, and paddling around in kayaks. Watch out for the raccoons in this area - they're pretty bold about trying to get into your food, so store everything properly. During dry parts of the year, you might not be allowed to have campfires, so check the rules before you go. It's smart to book sites ahead of time, especially in summer when they fill up fast. When you're not at camp, Holiday World & Splashin' Safari theme park isn't far away. History buffs can visit the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, which is a quick drive from most campgrounds. Keep in mind you'll need a state park pass to get into some of these places. Weather-wise, camping is best in spring and fall when it's not too hot or cold. Summer gets pretty sticky with humidity, so bring fans for your tent. Winter camping works too, but you'll need serious cold-weather gear. The Santa Claus area has good camping with plenty to do and nice surroundings.

Best Camping Sites Near Santa Claus, Indiana (81)

    1. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    33 Reviews
    Santa Claus, IN
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4458

    $45 - $101 / night

    "This park is conveniently located beside Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana! There is a wide variety of activities and it's a fun place to camp with family!"

    "Lake Rudolph is a nicely themed campground, right in line with the nearby town, Santa Claus, IN. It is conveniently located beside one of the best theme parks in the midwest, Holiday World."

    2. Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    20 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $20 - $100 / night

    "Lincoln State Park is right down the road from Santa Claus , Indiana and Holiday World. Needless to say it was a little busy, but not as bad as the Rudolph RV Park in town."

    " Lincoln 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!"

    3. Scales Lake Park

    17 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    $17 - $140 / night

    "Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house."

    "Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr.

    I drove through the RV park, it was okay."

    4. Indian-Celina Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Saint Croix, IN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 843-4880

    $21 - $44 / night

    "This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispered camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site."

    "Indian Lake is co-located with Celina Lake and two campground.

    Once you turn off of IN37 you just keep straight to get to Indian Lake."

    5. Patoka Lake Campground

    35 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 338-5589

    $12 - $35 / night

    "My Aunt loves their trips to Patoka Lake & I can relate as to why after this weekend. We went for a wedding at the marina & ended by a lovely cove."

    "Pick a site that has water near and you won’t have to unhook to fill your tanks. So many sites are in the shade all day and peaceful. Showers are spotless but fun on the push button system."

    6. Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    11 Reviews
    Leopold, IN
    16 miles
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    $5 / night

    "There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in."

    "This is a centrally located primitive campground that my siblings and I use often for weekend expeditions."

    7. Tipsaw Lake

    10 Reviews
    Leopold, IN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 843-4891

    $21 - $70 / night

    "This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down!"

    "Located in the beautiful rolling hills of southern Indiana not far from I-64 (exit 79)."

    8. Gobbler's Run Campground — Lincoln State Park

    2 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $22 / night

    "Hiked through the forest to where Abraham Lincoln grew up in Indiana. Fished the lake caught fish for dinner. Really enjoyed my time here."

    "We enjoyed the many hiking trails and, of course, the lake. This was Rivers first time in the kayak this year so we took it slow. she loved wearing her new lifejacket."

    9. Vastwood Co Park

    4 Reviews
    Hawesville, KY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 927-8778

    $8 - $20 / night

    "Beautiful lakeside campsites. Great for small groups or individuals."

    "Park features playground, paved biking and walking trails, disc golf, plenty of shade, lake with boat dock (non-motorized boats only), bath house, and dump station."

    10. Hoosier National Forest Jackpine Loop Campground

    3 Reviews
    Leopold, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "Jackpine Loop is the largest of the campground loops at Tipsaw Lake Recreation area Hoosier National Forest.

    The entire Tipsaw area seems to be oriented toward family and group camping."

    "Wildlife is everywhere, as it is not unusual to have a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launc, often followed by a turkey or two."

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Showing results 1-10 of 81 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Santa Claus, IN

380 Reviews of 81 Santa Claus Campgrounds



Guide to Santa Claus

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.

What to do

  • Explore local attractions: Visit the nearby Holiday World amusement park for thrilling rides and water fun. Many campers enjoy the convenience of staying at Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort, which is just a short drive away. One visitor mentioned, "The easy 'special entrance' shuttle to Holiday World made our trip super fun."
  • Hiking and nature walks: Check out the trails at O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground for a great hiking experience. A camper noted, "The park is well kept and organized, perfect for hiking or mountain biking."
  • Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds, like Indian-Celina Recreation Area, offer access to lakes for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer said, "The sites are set up well for tent camping with flat gravel pads deep in tall trees."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Harmonie State Park Campground mentioned, "Multiple bath/shower houses on each loop were clean and functional."
  • Spacious campsites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at Patoka Lake Campground. One review highlighted, "The spacious campsites add to the allure, providing ample room for relaxation."
  • Friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Scales Lake Park are known for their welcoming vibe. A camper shared, "Everyone I encountered, even park staff, was very friendly."

What you should know

  • Limited cell service: Some campgrounds, such as Spring Mill State Park Campground, have poor cell reception. A visitor noted, "I usually have 1-2 bars with Verizon."
  • Check for level sites: Not all campsites are level, which can be a hassle for tent campers. A reviewer at Indiana Lincoln State Park mentioned, "Our spot was super sloped; our tongue was almost on the ground."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for raccoons and other wildlife. One camper at Harmonie State Park Campground warned, "We had raccoon visitors both nights."

Tips for camping with families

  • Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. Sycamore Springs Park has multiple playgrounds and a miniature village for kids. A parent shared, "There are at least 11 playgrounds for kids and a small 'town' complete with playhouses."
  • Plan for meals: Bring food and snacks, as some campgrounds lack on-site markets. A visitor at Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort mentioned, "The park is very clean, and we looked out with good neighbors."
  • Safety first: Keep an eye on kids near water and busy areas. A camper at Patoka Lake Campground advised, "Parents with small children should be especially vigilant due to the high volume of boats."

Tips from RVers

  • Big rig friendly: Many campgrounds, like Indian-Celina Recreation Area, are suitable for larger RVs. A reviewer noted, "The sites are set up well for tent camping with flat gravel tent pads."
  • Electric hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has electric hookups if needed. A visitor at O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is near the trail to the old abandoned bridge, which is well worth the hike."
  • Check for amenities: Look for campgrounds with amenities like dump stations and water hookups. A camper at COE Rough River Lake Axtel Campground said, "The campground is very clean, and the camp hosts are amazing."

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 81 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Claus, IN and 3 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 3 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.