Tent campsites near Speedway, Indiana range from 45-60 miles from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway area. Summer temperatures typically average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions around 65-75°F. The region features primarily deciduous forest terrain with moderate elevation changes, providing natural drainage during rain events at most primitive sites.
What to do
Trail hiking opportunities: Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers extensive trail systems beyond standard camping areas. "The Tecumseh trail (40 miles) starts in Morgan Monroe State Forest passes through Yellowwood State Forest and ends in the Hoosier national Forest. There are some shorter trails also. The trails are very nice and well maintained. There is a paved bicycle trail approximately 5 miles long one way," notes Ron H.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide lake fishing options for campers willing to travel slightly farther from Speedway. "The lake is fabulous, but there didn't seem to be too many fish available for catching!! Pretty place and fun for a laid back place to stay," reports Debbie S. about Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort.
Wildlife observation: The forested camping areas host diverse bird and amphibian populations. "Site 13 has a little trail that goes down to a large flooded sinkhole behind the campsite. There were lots of tree frogs singing because of the proximity to water," shares Daisy C. about her Morgan-Monroe experience.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many tent campers appreciate the less crowded nature of these sites compared to state parks. "This campground is decent if you get one of the few good spots. Many sites are small and can only accommodate a tent. Has water and vault toilets. This campground typically remains available as an overflow camping area but is still a good spot," reports Joe B.
Spacious primitive areas: Lake Waveland Park provides numerous unmarked primitive sites with basic amenities. "There are dozens of sites here, drive past the shower house where road bends to the left and down hill. The sites aren't marked, but are indicated by picnic table and fire ring, though fire rings are not always present. Huge area is reasonably well mowed," explains William David S.
Natural camping surfaces: Most primitive tent sites feature natural ground conditions rather than gravel pads. "I came here for one night and it was o.k. The sites are kind of too close together. The campsite do have fire rings and picnic tables. The site fills up pretty fast so come early," notes Kevin T. about Lake Waveland Park.
What you should know
Registration requirements: Self-registration procedures vary by location. "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, it is in the box attached to the payment envelope," advises Rob R.
Water availability limitations: Some locations have minimal water access points. "This campground has vault toilets and drinking water available. There are outdoor sinks at the drinking water stations," mentions Daisy C.
First-come camping logistics: Many sites operate without reservation systems. "The primitive sites are very secluded and quite but get there fast because spots are first come first serve! The staff is very friendly and helpful! The campground is located within close proximity of both Turkey Run and Shades State Park," advises Sydni T. about Rattlesnake area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "There is a playground and fire tower right next to the Mason Ridge campground, but both were closed due to coronavirus," notes Daisy C. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Beach options: Clovis Creek provides both tent camping and swimming areas, making it suitable for family outings with 20 designated campsites that include picnic tables and fire rings. Some sites offer direct water access for supervised swimming.
Special event camping: Seasonal family activities enhance some camping locations. "Fireworks in July and Halloween for the whole family in October," mentions Nicole B. about Lake Waveland Park's annual traditions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent-focused areas have significant limitations for larger vehicles. "Our camper is about 25' and it was tight get in and out of the campground. If you have a small camper (15' or smaller) there would more sites. There is a dump station, but I barely got in to dump. So not real RV friendly," cautions Ron H.
Small trailer options: Campers with compact trailers have more flexibility. "Great forest for camping. Even with beautiful weather and the opening of squirrel season, it was relatively light with other campers. Water and bathrooms available," notes Rob R., who successfully navigated Morgan-Monroe with smaller equipment.
Tree clearance issues: Overhead branches create challenges at some sites. "Trees need cut or maintained. Usually pretty quiet. If you enjoy fishing or boating that a plus. No hiking trails. They do have a beach. A few cabins for rent," observes Nicole B. about Lake Waveland maintenance considerations.
