Best Tent Camping near Shoals, IN

Hoosier National Forest lands surrounding Shoals, Indiana offer several primitive tent camping options within a 30-mile radius. Charles C. Deam Wilderness provides backcountry tent sites with both hike-in and drive-in access, while Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed camping offers roadside pull-offs suitable for tent campers. Old Mill Tent and Hammock Camping along Blue River provides established tent campsites with basic amenities, and Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping features secluded tent sites on gravel roads through forested terrain.

Most tent-only sites in the region are situated on natural surfaces ranging from forest duff to gravel pads with minimal grading. Campers should bring all necessary supplies as amenities vary significantly between locations. Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers rock fire rings at official sites but requires pack-in water. Mitchell Creek Road pull-offs have no designated facilities, while Old Mill provides fire rings, picnic tables, and portable toilets. Cell service is limited or nonexistent throughout the area, particularly at dispersed sites. Paper maps are recommended as GPS reliability varies on forest roads. During heavy rain, some tent sites become muddy or temporarily inaccessible.

The tent camping experience varies significantly by location. According to reviews, Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers excellent solitude, with one camper noting they "didn't see another soul past a couple hundred feet of the trailhead." Berry Ridge Road dispersed sites provide exceptional privacy, with campsites sometimes located half a mile apart. Visitors report these areas are "very private" with "good ground to pitch a tent." Mitchell Creek Road offers quiet camping with minimal traffic, though some sites are located on less-than-ideal terrain. Most tent campgrounds feature abundant tree cover for shade and hammock options. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer frequently observed at established campgrounds and coyotes occasionally heard in more remote areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Shoals, Indiana (18)

    1. Springs Valley Rec Area

    1 Review
    French Lick, IN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    "the campground is closed for overnight camping, but this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. electric motors only, so nice and quiet."

    2. Newton-Stewart

    1 Review
    Birdseye, IN
    20 miles
    Website

    "Primitive. 45 spots."

    3. Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN
    27 miles

    "This is NOT a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land. There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities."

    4. Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    9 Reviews
    Heltonville, IN
    33 miles

    "Being in a national forest dispersed camping is allowed if you follow leave no trace principals, but I stayed in a couple of the official sites."

    "The sites are primitive with no amenities. Tent camping only although there are both hike in and drive up sites in the wilderness area. Great place to get away from it all."

    5. Happy Hollow Homestead

    5 Reviews
    English, IN
    30 miles
    Website

    $40 - $65 / night

    "He has firewood for purchase and will set up your fire for free with his propane torch, which was very helpful for us after a rainstorm."

    "We were nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem. Great stay. 20' Ford Transit ModVan. One bar with cell booster."

    6. Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Freetown, IN
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "Decent sized space to park for 2-3 vehicles."

    "If you are into boondocking at all defiantly check out berry ridge it’s just south of brown county Indiana beautiful country mostly hills tons of camp spots sometimes half mile or more apart haven’t seen"

    7. Woodland Hills Campground

    Be the first to review!
    French Lick, IN
    18 miles
    +1 (812) 936-9140

    8. Ransburg Scout Reservation

    4 Reviews
    Harrodsburg, IN
    32 miles
    Website

    "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing.
    Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails. Their mess hall is top notch."

    "Our Boy Scout troop enjoyed visiting this location. It was well maintained and the staff was helpful."

    9. Pine Loop

    1 Review
    Harrodsburg, IN
    31 miles

    "There are campsites from walk-ins to drive-ins to FCFS with or without electricity/water. Plenty of shade in a very quiet surrounding. Access to Monroe lake as well as a small beach for swimming."

    10. Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping

    3 Reviews
    English, IN
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 472-3140

    $20 / night

    "Sites are relatively close but you still have plenty of your own space. Each site comes with a fire pit and picnic table. Plenty of trees to hang up a hammock and empty space to pitch a tent."

    "Nice size site with fire ring and picnic table. Lots of trees- so great tree canopy and plenty of hammock. Nice size pieces of wood and large bundles."

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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Shoals, IN

671 Reviews of 18 Shoals Campgrounds



Guide to Shoals

Tent camping near Shoals, Indiana offers a variety of scenic locations and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several well-reviewed campgrounds to explore.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking at Springs Valley Rec Area, where the beautiful lake provides a serene backdrop for outdoor fun.
  • Experience the rustic charm of Happy Hollow Homestead, which features spacious campsites and a variety of activities like tire swings and tree climbing for kids.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area with a visit to Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed, perfect for those who enjoy solitude and the thrill of discovering hidden spots along the creek.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Shoals

  • Be prepared for primitive camping at Newton-Stewart, where amenities are limited, but the natural surroundings are stunning.
  • Pack your essentials, as Woodland Hills Campground does not provide drinking water or electric hookups, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more rugged experience.
  • Bring your own firewood to Happy Hollow Homestead, where fires are allowed, enhancing your camping experience under the stars.

Tent Camping Prices Near Shoals

  • Tent camping at Springs Valley Rec Area is budget-friendly, with prices typically ranging from $10 to $20 per night.
  • Expect to pay around $15 to $25 for a night at Happy Hollow Homestead, which offers a unique blend of amenities and natural beauty.
  • For a more rustic experience, camping at Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed is free, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money while enjoying the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Shoals, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Shoals, IN is Springs Valley Rec Area with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Shoals, IN?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Shoals, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.