Tent campsites near Smithville, Indiana occupy primarily forested terrain within Hoosier National Forest and surrounding areas at elevations between 600-800 feet. Most dispersed sites require campers to pack in all supplies, including water, as drinking sources are limited throughout the region's oak-hickory woodlands. Primitive camping options range from roadside pull-offs to hidden backcountry spots requiring moderate hiking.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Lake Waveland Park, campers can utilize multiple shore fishing areas for catching bass and panfish. According to Mike V., "The lake is popular for fishing," while Randy A. notes, "If fishing is your way of relaxing, you should have a good time here."
Wilderness hiking: The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. Sarah R. shares, "I had the awesome experience to hammock camp on the Patton cave trail, along the creek that winds the length of that trail. It was a strenuous hike to pack in/out of, but was beautiful scenery."
Rock collecting: Search for geological specimens in creek beds within Charles C. Deam Wilderness. Sarah R. explains, "I walked the creek for hours just looking at all the rocks on the sandbars. I have never encountered so many geodes in my life."
Secluded road biking: Morgan-Monroe State Forest provides a paved bicycle trail approximately 5 miles long, offering a scenic ride through dense forest. Ron H. describes it as "a paved bicycle trail approximately 5 miles long one way" with "Three small lakes are on the property for fishing and kayaking."
What campers like
Complete solitude: Berry Ridge Road dispersed camping areas provide exceptional isolation. Jacob notes, "Haven't seen any snakes here either and the best part I haven't seen any people! Camp spot is about 100ft off the main road with thick woods in between the road and the campsite."
Backwoods camping access: Berry Ridge Road offers multiple pull-off spots for tent campsites. Jeremy F. mentions, "Multiple campsites in the area, I've stayed at two both of which were away from others, clean, fairly flat and had plenty of dead wood around to burn."
Firewood availability: Several dispersed sites allow gathering of downed wood for fires. Jacob shares about Berry Ridge camping: "No water or electric hookups plenty of wood lying around to use for a fire clean campsites all gravel roads."
Wildlife encounters: Primitive camping areas provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly in early morning hours. At Berry Ridge Road, campers report, "Just trees knocking, bugs curling and frogs croaking. Did see a rattlesnake dead on the road."
What you should know
Limited bathroom facilities: Most dispersed tent camping sites require packing out all waste. Nicole B. warns about Rattlesnake Campground: "primitive only no drinking water at campgrounds."
Weather considerations: After rainfall, access roads to primitive sites can become challenging. Sarah R. advises about Charles C. Deam Wilderness: "We came after a lot of rain. So everything is permanently wet and mosquitos/ticks abounded."
Parking restrictions: Some wilderness areas have limited parking with potential fines for roadside parking. Hannah F. cautions: "Come Friday you'll be fighting for a spot or face an $80 fine for parking on the roadway."
Registration procedures: Some campgrounds require self-registration after setting up. Rob R. explains: "When you arrive set up at your site. Then you will need to go WITH EXACT CHANGE to the sign in at the main building."
Tips for camping with families
Scout camping options: Ransburg Scout Reservation offers structured programs for youth groups. Margo B. states, "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."
Beach swimming: Some lakeside campgrounds feature designated swimming areas suitable for children. Jennifer H. mentions Hardin Ridge has "access to Monroe lake as well as a small beach for swimming."
Playground facilities: Morgan-Monroe State Forest includes a playground near camping areas. Daisy C. notes, "There is a playground and fire tower right next to the Mason Ridge campground."
Seasonal events: Lake Waveland Park hosts family-focused activities during holidays. Nicole B. points out they have "Fireworks in July and Halloween for the whole family in October."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer options: Most tent campsites near Smithville accommodate small trailers but have limitations for larger vehicles. Don N. shares about Oak Ridge Camping Area: "My wife and were at site 15 from 09/02/21- 09/06/21 camping in a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108 TB. This park is not for large rigs, but we had no trouble fitting into our small camper."
Generator considerations: While generators are permitted at some sites, limited use is recommended. Don N. notes, "This is a great place to camp and hike, although there is no electric hookup we had a generator that we used sparklingly."
Dump station challenges: Be aware that some dump stations have technical limitations. Don N. reports, "The only drawbacks were that the vault toilets are in pretty bad condition and the dump station hose did not have a connection to allow me to flush the blackwater holding tank."
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