Tent camping near Solsberry, Indiana offers several backcountry camping options within the hilly terrain of south-central Indiana. The region sits at elevations between 600-900 feet, with dense hardwood forests covering the rolling landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons bring cooler nights with temperatures sometimes dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Geode hunting along creek beds: At Charles C. Deam Wilderness, the Patton Cave trail follows a creek where campers can search for these natural treasures. "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. Truly magnificent to encounter," reports Sarah R.
Hiking the Sycamore Loop: This 6-mile trail in the wilderness area follows streams and passes through diverse forest sections. "The trails are well paved and marked, not too strenuous. So many beautiful trees and plants to see, plus lots of creeks to walk through," notes Hannah F.
Swimming in Monroe Lake: Several camping areas provide access to the lake for cooling off during summer months. One visitor to Ransburg Scout Reservation mentioned, "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails."
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: The dispersed camping areas provide significant space between sites. At Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping, one camper noted, "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site."
Established fire rings: Most designated sites include stone fire rings for safe campfires. "The official sites all had rock fire rings and bushcraft furniture," one visitor observed about Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Abundant hammock camping spots: The mature forests provide plenty of options for hammock campers. "This area is so beautiful! There are an abundance of areas to set up a hammock," writes one visitor. Another camper at Charles C. Deam Wilderness shared, "I had the awesome experience to hammock camp on the Patton cave trail, along the creek that winds the length of that trail."
What you should know
Limited parking at trailheads: Especially on weekends, parking can fill quickly at popular areas. "Come Friday you'll be fighting for a spot or face an $80 fine for parking on the roadway. More parking is a necessity with the amount of dispersed campers," warns a visitor.
Water sources reliability: Streams and lakes require treatment before drinking, and some areas have no reliable water sources. "Refill your water when you come across it; the lake is harder to get to than you think. I would also bring bug spray and check for ticks!" advises Jessica T.
Self-registration required: At Oak Ridge Camping Area, "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. It's easy, there is a little box on the side of the firewood shed. Make sure you take your tag to mark your site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some established campgrounds include family-friendly amenities. "There is a playground and fire tower right next to the Mason Ridge campground," notes one camper at Oak Ridge Camping Area, though facilities may be seasonally closed.
Short hiking options: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly trails under 2 miles. "Recommend the tree trail," suggests one visitor to Oak Ridge Camping Area.
Scout-friendly facilities: Ransburg Scout Reservation offers structured camping options for youth groups. "Their mess hall is top notch. We have camped here in a cabin, and also tent camped," shares Margo B.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites can only accommodate smaller camping vehicles. At Hickory Ridge Primitive Dispersed Campsites, one camper noted, "I pulled in at midnight in a sedan in the winter and i was able to safely find my way."
Limited dump station access: "There is a dump station, but I barely got in to dump. So not real RV friendly," reports a camper at Oak Ridge Camping Area.
Accessibility after rain: Gravel roads can become challenging when wet. One visitor to Berry Ridge Road mentioned, "Not very big, I would not bring a RV here especially after rain," indicating the need to check conditions before arrival with larger vehicles.
