123 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping areas around Spencer, Indiana feature a mix of state recreational lands and forest campgrounds with varying levels of development. Owen Putnam State Forest provides basic tent and RV sites with minimal amenities, while Lieber State Recreation Area offers more developed facilities including electric hookups, showers, and water access. McCormick's Creek State Park, Indiana's first state park, provides numerous camping options with well-maintained trails and natural features. Several campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with a few locations like Cagles Mill Lake also offering cabin rentals and glamping opportunities.
Access to campsites in the Spencer region varies seasonally, with most facilities operating year-round but experiencing different conditions. The area's campgrounds provide varying levels of amenities—from primitive sites with no utilities to full-service campgrounds with electric, water, and sewer hookups. Owen Putnam State Forest offers more rustic experiences with limited facilities, while nearby state recreation areas provide modern amenities including shower buildings and dump stations. Hickory Hills Camp Resort operates seasonally from April to October, offering a different schedule than the state-managed properties. One camper noted, "We stay over Memorial weekend. Campground is very hilly. Loop B sites are very uneven. If you have a trailer I suggest the A loop or definitely have enough equipment to make you level."
The most highly rated camping experiences in the region combine natural settings with reasonable amenities. McCormick's Creek State Park receives particularly strong reviews for its hiking opportunities, waterfall, and clean facilities. Several visitors mention the park's trails as highlights, with multiple hiking options for different skill levels accessing features like Wolf Cave, sinkholes, and the park's namesake waterfall. Campers frequently comment on site spacing and privacy, with primitive areas generally offering more seclusion than electric sites. As one reviewer mentioned about McCormick's Creek, "If you want to feel like you're alone in the woods, you won't like most of the electric sites. Sites 190-202 have no electricity, but most are fairly private/secluded." Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, swimming options, and interpretive programs enhance the camping experience at several locations near Spencer.
"Cagles Mill Lake borders the southwestern side of the area. We arrived to a very quiet campground with few campers."
"Each campsite is spacious and has plenty of space away from your neighbors. There was plenty of shade even though our pad wasn't tucked back in the woods."
from $23 - $42 / night
Check Availability"It's a bittersweet type of situation."
"This is one of the largest campgrounds in all of Indiana. It includes hundreds of campsites. This includes RV hookups, standard campsites, and primitive campsites."
from $23 - $52 / night
Check Availability"This wonderful hidden gem is 14 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park. It is a DNR state operated and has some pretty cool fishing. It was family-approved by my kin."
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability"One is a separate horse camp, it was fun to see so many horses on the trails and talk to the riders. They do some forestry work but it wasn’t loud."
"This campground is nestled on a ridge above Indiana's Lake Monroe."
"Hardin Ridge is a fantastic place to camp, and is very close to lake Monroe. But it's also quite a ways away from any stores in case you forget anything."
from $24 - $64 / night
Check Availability"This is just a beautiful Indiana State Park located near the small community of Jasonville, Indiana which offers simple dining, grocery store, hardware store and fuel."
"There's 7 hiking trails. All are nice walks in the woods. All were muddy in sections. There's an old coal mine on Trail 2. Blocked off for safety. "
from $23 - $1200 / night
Check Availability"This is probably the best state forest in the state of Indiana. The property is well maintained. There is a new visitors center built a few years ago."
"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."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"There’s two pools, a pickle ball court, a basketball half court, farm animals, golf cart trails, kayak/canoe/row boats, exploring creeks, fishing, a dog park, several playgrounds, Gaga ball, tether ball"
"Peaceful little place but unfortunately it rained but we made the best of it, there’s some secluded spots where you can stay away from others or stay in the more general areas, nice lake to fish and we"
"Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope. Bring exact change(cash). Current prices are listed on the Indiana DNR website."
from $225 / night
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GuideThe campground is very nice with decent sized sites and very clean. The bath houses are kept in good order and the camp store is nearby for everything you forgot.
One important thing. There is no water at the sites. you have to fill your tanks at a central spigot before setting up. 5o map power was great.
ScoutVery clean. Well kept, mostly full shade . Easy access to ramp on lake.
ScoutThis is a free family church camp that teaches about God and has free meals and fun activities for kids
TravelerArrived Saturday before the Fourth of July entire campground was overgrown trash in our site. I picked up at least 15 beer bottle lids from previous camper. No host to be found. Apparently she drives through but doesn’t stay here we were told there was 30 and 50 amp service. It was first come first serve. We were hoping that the next-door camper would leave on the 28th as his card on the mirror said he had to be out by the 28th but he’s still here and it’s the 30th there is no 50 amp anywhere. We looked in several empty campsites and could not find 50 amp anywhere. We were told later that there is no 50 A on this campground. Bathrooms are disgusting. They have a trough for the water to drain out. One shower is out of order the other one the door is hanging by one hinge honestly, I wouldn’t even go to the bathroom in bath houses. Definitely the worst shower house we’ve ever seen in camping all our years. Heavily wooden camp sites with many dead trees still standing the potential for this campground is high. It’s too bad the owners don’t see this. Anybody can drive in at any time we saw two different campers come in spend the night and leave the next day before the checkout building opened. They did not have placed cards on their mirrors so we feel like they were probably squatting. Since the lake, the beach and the public campground is open and not patrolled, there is a lot of Co19mings and goings.
ScoutWe was put in a spot because we have a big dog and a special needs daughter and after being here 2 days the host came rudely knocking on my door to tell me check out was 5 minutes ago when I have 2 days left and then said all of a sudden my dog wasn’t allowed
GuideGreat for car camping or tent camping. 2.2 miles of gravel dirt road. Very set off the road and private. Very leveled. Shaded by the trees. Clean. Cell service was great.
ScoutQuiet and quant! Nice little campground with great fishing nearby!!
TravelerWe love these campsites! So much space, existing fire rings, there was wood left behind from previous campers so that was nice! We have a reactive pup and she is able to live her best life there! We enjoyed all the trails around our site as well.
TravelerI chose this spot because we wanted to camp by water, but didn’t realize the camp sites are a 5-10 minute walk from the lake. The sites are pushed back, quiet, have existing fire rings, and are spacious. We enjoyed our time, just wish there was a bit more room to spend time at the lake!
Camping opportunities near Spencer, Indiana include a mix of state forests and recreational areas situated in the rolling hills of south-central Indiana. The region sits at elevations between 600-900 feet, creating varied terrain for hiking and camping experiences. Weather in the area follows typical Midwestern patterns with hot, humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall particularly popular for overnight stays at campsites near Spencer.
Fishing opportunities: Cagles Mill Lake at Lieber State Recreation Area provides multiple options for anglers. "Loving Lieber. Great sites. Lots of activities for families. The beach was fun. Very social campground, but respectful and quiet after dark. Really enjoyed our summer evening there," notes Brett B.
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special seasonal events in fall. At Lieber State Recreation Area, campers can enjoy their Halloween-themed weekend. "We love going to this park several times a year. We especially like camping in the fall for their Goblins weekend," shares Timothy B.
Water activities: Paynetown Campground offers comprehensive lake access for multiple water sports. "This lake is huge and alot of fun. There are beaches everywhere besides the designated one so it's easy to swim with your dogs or find private spots," explains Rebecca J. Boat, kayak and canoe rentals are available for those without personal watercraft.
Secluded sites: Morgan-Monroe State Forest provides more primitive camping options with greater privacy. "My favorite forest with traditional camping, backwoods camping, and a wonderful secret pioneer cabin for rent. This is the best camping within an hour on Indianapolis," writes Sars C.
Diverse campground layouts: Many campers appreciate the variety of site arrangements available in the region. At Hardin Ridge, "The grounds are kept very clean, as well as the shower rooms, bathrooms, and vault toilets. There are many electric, some electric/water, and a few full hook up. Water spigots are heavily spread throughout each loop."
Multiple lakes and water features: The Yellowwood State Forest area contains a 133-acre lake with surrounding forest. "Very beautiful yet primitive campground. All the campgrounds are numbered and have their own names. Think there are 80 sites in total... There is a picnicing area for day use only right off the water which is beautiful," shares Sammii D.
Reservation policies vary significantly: Many sites require early booking while others operate on first-come systems. "The only spots you can reserve are non electric which is what we got and still had a nice time in our pop up camper..The camp ground does have electric sites but it's first come first serve!!!" explains a camper at Hardin Ridge.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain in the region can create issues for RVs and trailers. At Shakamak State Park Campground, campers note the opposite: "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park, but there you go."
Limited amenities at forest sites: State forests typically offer more basic facilities than state parks. At Owen Putnam State Forest, "I have camped here many times over 20yrs. There are 3 campgrounds on property... There is water available (not at camp sites). The trails are mainly for horse riding, so they are pretty muddy."
Activity centers: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming for children. At Paynetown, "The activity center has programs all the time and there is always something going on there. You have to reserve a spot early to get one with shade on busy weekends (we do non electric tent camping)."
Swimming options: Hickory Hills Camp Resort provides multiple water-based recreation options. "There's two pools, a pickle ball court, a basketball half court, farm animals, golf cart trails, kayak/canoe/row boats, exploring creeks, fishing, a dog park, several playgrounds, Gaga ball, tether ball, volleyball, frisbee golf and several weekend activities for everyone."
Budget-friendly options: State forests near Spencer offer more affordable camping. At Yellowwood State Forest, primitive sites cost "$13 per night. There are several potable water stations and pit toilets throughout the campgrounds and one dump station located in Red Bud."
Accessibility considerations: Site access varies significantly across the region. At Yellowwood State Forest, an RVer notes it's "perfect for tent camping or smaller units; we would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel and may challenge your maneuvering skills!"
Extension cord needs: When setting up at certain campsites, plan for electrical connections to be located away from optimal parking. At Shakamak State Park, "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit- the electric box is in an awkward place."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have different operational schedules throughout the year. Hickory Hills Camp Resort operates from April to October, while other state facilities maintain year-round availability with varying levels of services during winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Spencer, Indiana?
The best campgrounds near Spencer include Mccormick's Creek State Park Campground, Indiana's first state park with stunning canyon views and waterfalls. Just a short drive away, Lieber State Recreation Area Campground offers peaceful sites bordered by Cagles Mill Lake with attached gravel pads and nice shower facilities. Other excellent options include Owen Putnam State Forest for a more rustic experience and Hickory Hills Camp Resort for those seeking additional amenities. All provide great access to southern Indiana's natural beauty while being conveniently located near Spencer.
What amenities are available at Spencer, Indiana camping facilities?
Camping facilities near Spencer offer varied amenities to suit different preferences. Buffalo Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park provides electric hookups, water fill stations throughout, nice bath houses, and asphalt pads. For a more rustic experience, Yellowwood State Forest offers 79 primitive campsites with basic facilities. Many area campgrounds include shower houses, flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Some facilities maintain year-round camping with reduced winter services, including heated bath houses during off-season. Reservable sites are common at state parks, while more primitive options exist for those seeking a simpler camping experience.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy while camping near Spencer, Indiana?
The Spencer area offers abundant outdoor activities for campers. At Charles C. Deam Wilderness, you can enjoy hiking through pristine wilderness with numerous trails and dispersed camping opportunities. Paynetown Campground provides access to water recreation on Monroe Lake. The region features excellent hiking with varied and challenging trails, stunning waterfalls, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Mountain biking enthusiasts will find nearly 30 miles of trails in Brown County State Park with connections to surrounding forests. During fall, the rolling hills showcase spectacular leaf color displays. Many parks also offer nature programs, bird watching opportunities, and scenic vistas perfect for photography.
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