Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Spencer, Indiana, with multiple sites located within Hoosier National Forest and surrounding state lands. Most primitive camping areas sit at elevations between 600-800 feet, with terrain characterized by rolling hills, limestone outcrops, and dense hardwood forests. Sites typically receive 45-50 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal considerations for tent campers navigating forest roads.
What to do
Hiking trail connections: Multiple tent sites in Morgan-Monroe State Forest provide direct access to extensive trail networks. "There are a lot of trails to hike 2 of them are over 10 miles (lower gap and three lakes). The Tecumseh trail (40 miles) starts in Morgan Monroe State Forest passes through Yellowwood State Forest and ends in the Hoosier national Forest," notes camper Ron H.
Rock hunting expeditions: Creeks throughout Charles C. Deam Wilderness contain abundant geodes and fossils. Sarah R. shares, "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."
Water activities: Lake Monroe provides swimming and paddling opportunities from several camping areas. "The area is maintained by seasonal residents and is in amazing shape. Access to Monroe lake as well as a small beach for swimming," reports Jennifer H. about Pine Loop and surrounding areas.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping offers exceptionally private camping spots. One camper describes, "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." Another notes, "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Spencer host diverse wildlife populations. Jennifer H. reports seeing "more deer and other wildlife here than even at Brown County State Park!" Nocturnal animal activity is common, with one camper at Berry Ridge noting, "every night at around 5pm I would hear rustling in the leaves."
Backpacking routes: Hickory Ridge Primitive Dispersed Campsites serve as excellent starting points for overnight trips. "Very nice drive during the day, hiking is fantastic!" shares Jimmy H. These sites allow backpackers to access more remote camping locations away from roads.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The region experiences frequent rainfall throughout spring and summer. Sarah R. warns, "We came after a lot of rain. So everything is permanently wet and mosquitos/ticks abounded."
Road conditions: Some dispersed sites require careful navigation. Amber R. notes about Berry Ridge, "the road was gravel and steep at times," though she adds, "I have a promaster conversion and had no trouble making it to this site."
Self-registration requirements: Oak Ridge Camping Area operates on a first-come basis with specific check-in procedures. "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," explains Rob R.
Primitive facilities: Most tent sites offer minimal amenities. At Oak Ridge, Daisy C. explains, "This campground is for those who like to 'rough it' a little bit," noting that facilities include "sinks, feeling of seclusion, quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly facilities: Ransburg Scout Reservation offers structured camping options ideal for families. "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," reports Margo B.
Site selection: Choose camping areas with nearby activities. Na J. advises, "The aquatics area was hard to get to from our site because it was so far away. It is quite a large campground."
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. One camper recommends, "Be respectful of the wildlife and don't let your pooch chase it off." Another notes seeing "a rattlesnake dead on the road," indicating the importance of snake awareness when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Spencer accommodate only smaller RVs. Ron H. cautions about Morgan-Monroe State Forest: "We are RV campers and there are only about 5 sites we could get in to. 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."
Dump station access: Limited facilities exist for waste disposal. "The dump station hose did not have a connection to allow me to flush the blackwater holding tank," notes Don N. about Oak Ridge.
Generator restrictions: For the best tent camping near Spencer, Indiana, plan accordingly for power needs. Most dispersed sites prohibit generators, with one camper advising, "This is pack in pack out, no amenities camping for free."
