The limestone formations and natural springs around Richmond, Indiana form a unique ecosystem that supports both upscale luxury glamping and rustic cabin experiences. Most campgrounds in this region sit between 900-1,100 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Water recreation forms the centerpiece of most glamping experiences here, with many sites located on or near quarries, lakes, and rivers.
What to Do
Hiking trails and nature exploration: Hueston Woods State Park offers multiple hiking trails through old growth forests where "deer sightings were plentiful as were chattering tree rats...ahem, squirrels, sorry. Woodpeckers stayed busy overhead," according to Dave V., who visited during shoulder season.
Water sports on quarries: Natural Springs Resort centers around a spring-fed quarry for swimming and paddling. One visitor notes that "the quarry is nice and clear, pretty cold (would love to feel it in August or September). Fun to jump into and overall pretty."
Mountain biking: Several trails at Hueston Woods State Park Campground accommodate mountain bikers, who "spoke favorably" of the trails according to campers who chatted with them. Another reviewer mentioned that "this park is amazing for mountain biking trail to go with water sport at lake."
Disc golf: Winton Woods Campground features "a short 18 hole Disc Golf course close by. It is an easy course great for beginners," according to Dan G., making it an excellent activity option for glampers seeking recreational activities beyond water sports.
What Campers Like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many glamping cabins at Hidden Paradise Campground offer riverside locations where "we take our own rafts and kayaks, although both are available for rent/purchase at the camp store." Angela H. adds, "Our boys & friends spend most of their time in the river, but also enjoy the quarry lake with inflatables & paddle boats."
Swimming in natural springs: The spring-fed quarries remain consistently clear year-round. Ko L. reported after glamping at Hueston Woods that "this park is amazing for mountain biking trail to go with water sport at lake." Windi H. observed at Natural Springs Resort that "the lake is nice and clear, pretty cold. Fun to jump into and overall pretty."
Privacy between sites: When seeking glamping near Richmond, Indiana, site spacing varies considerably between locations. Kelsey R. noted that Cornerstone Campground has "lots for my children to do. My only complaint is, it's your typical campground where you're right on top of your neighbor. If you don't mind, it's fine." By contrast, Brady R. found at Whitewater Memorial that "I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out!"
Cleanliness of facilities: Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground maintains high standards for facilities. John F. noted, "New pit toilets were very clean and potable water station are located throughout campgrounds." Another reviewer mentioned Wildcat Woods has "the nicest cleanest camp bathrooms/shower house I've ever seen."
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: The climate around Richmond fluctuates dramatically between seasons. Dave V. noted that at Hueston Woods, "With the vast old growth forests, dried/dead branches for firewood was plentiful for a chilly night (38) fire. We evaded the impending rain for once and pressed on. Weekend campers experienced heavy storms as we left."
Booking challenges: Some glamping locations have complicated reservation systems. One camper at Winton Woods Campground Hamilton County Park reported, "Both the mobile site and the full website didn't work. There's a number listed to call 'if you're having trouble booking online', but of course the office was closed all weekend."
Road access issues: Some glamping sites have difficult access roads. Douglas T. warned about Hidden Paradise: "This little road is quite narrow, has some pretty tight turns with trees on both sides and in the night it's hard to tell where the rear end of your camper is on the turns where there are trees close to the road."
Noise levels: Traffic sound can affect some locations. Dave V. reported that at Hueston Woods, "Traffic noise is noticeable, especially during quiet hours. While not excessive, it's disruptive." Julie E. similarly warned that Richmond KOA is "really close to the highway and LOUD! I like to hear nature when I came to destress not semis all night long."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities for kids: Natural Springs Resort - RV Park, Campground and Recreation Destination offers varied water recreation. According to Simpson, who has been camping there for over 8 years, "It's a great place to relax and unwind for the whole family!" Another camper noted, "You can swim out back of many of the campsites along the River."
Playground equipment: Cornerstone Campground provides "lots for my children to do" according to Kelsey R. Another visitor noted, "There is a pretty pond, pool, and many activities for kids. I enjoyed the peaceful ambience and walking trails through the trees."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy wildlife encounters at Hueston Woods State Park. Dave V. reported, "At dusk an overly friendly 'masked trash panda' encroached seeking to share my delectable and perfectly toasted s'more...having to be chased off." He also mentioned plentiful deer sightings.
Supervised swimming: Not all glamping locations provide lifeguards. One camper at Hidden Paradise cautioned, "It has a slide and a trampoline. No lifeguard on duty, so be careful." Parents should plan accordingly for water safety supervision.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Kamp Modoc accommodates larger vehicles according to Hank S., who noted, "I saw gravel RV sites, that's what I received." Douglas T. shared that at Hidden Paradise, "Sites are large and easy to maneuver our 42' 5th wheel. Our site had full hookup, flat ground so easy setup."
Utility hookup considerations: Not all sites offer the same amenities. Stefanie C. warned that at Richmond KOA, you "must pay extra for a grey water site, and there's only a few." Jeremiah G. noted that Natural Springs Resort offers "30, 50 am full hook ups. Water and electric only hook ups, primitive RV and tent sites."
Site conditions: Surface types vary between glamping locations. Jeremiah G. observed that Natural Springs has "most sites not shaded and small" while also noting "in most cases there is parking lot style camping." Winton Woods, according to Tamar, has "an oversized gravel spot with plenty of trees to hang my hammock from."
Seasonal accessibility: Weather affects site conditions. One camper reported, "When we arrived, we found that none of the back in sites had been plowed! All of the pull through sites were plowed and there were plenty open." RVers should call ahead during winter months to confirm site readiness.
