Dispersed tent camping in the Hoosier National Forest region offers rustic options for campers seeking natural surroundings. The forest covers over 200,000 acres across nine counties in southern Indiana, with terrain characterized by rolling hills, limestone formations, and hardwood forests. Most sites in this region have limited cellular connectivity and require self-contained camping supplies including water and waste disposal methods.
What to do
Explore waterways by kayak: Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping sits directly on Blue River, providing immediate access for paddlers. "A canoe/kayaking company actually ends one of their river trips there so during the day it could be a bit noisy when those groups come in," notes camper Sammii D.
Visit nearby caves: The region offers underground exploration opportunities close to camping areas. According to one camper at Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping, the site is "Close to Marengo Cave, the Indiana Shoe Tree and a bunch of Canoe trip companies."
Hike through forest terrain: The forest surrounding Happy Hollow Homestead offers natural hiking paths with varied terrain. One visitor mentioned, "Kerry took us on a kubota for a tour of the property. We saw a beautiful creek with waterfall, bee hives and sinkholes."
Wildlife observation: Campers frequently report wildlife encounters throughout the region. At Mitchell Creek Road, one camper reported hearing "what was possibly a large band of coyotes in the distance" while camping. Turtles are commonly spotted on the gravel roads during warmer months.
What campers like
Natural features: The forests provide abundant shade and natural beauty. A camper at Happy Hollow Homestead mentioned, "The forest is beautiful and we had no problems with ticks or mosquitoes while sleeping in our hammocks."
Peaceful solitude: Many campsites offer significant separation from other campers. At Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed, one visitor noted the exceptional quiet: "While I was exploring and camping on this road, only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet."
Hammock options: Several sites feature excellent tree cover for hammock camping. A visitor at Old Mill noted, "Each site comes with a fire pit and picnic table. Plenty of trees to hang up a hammock and empty space to pitch a tent."
Water access: Camping adjacent to waterways provides both recreation and ambiance. One camper appreciated Old Mill's location, stating "Nice size site with fire ring and picnic table. Lots of trees- so great tree canopy and plenty of hammock...Great place to camp right off kayak."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have minimal or no amenities. A Mitchell Creek Road camper clarified, "There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities. However, if you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle, this is quiet, secluded, and beautiful."
Navigation challenges: GPS service becomes unreliable in many forested areas. "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty," advises a Mitchell Creek Road camper. Another visitor noted it took "20 [minutes] from route 64 to find this place."
Road conditions: Forest access roads may be difficult for some vehicles. At Springs Valley Rec Area, while overnight camping is closed, day visitors enjoy that it's "still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. Electric motors only, so nice and quiet."
Campsite identification: Dispersed sites along forest roads can be challenging to locate. At Mitchell Creek Road, one camper reported, "10 min later I got to the coordinates and there was nothing, not seven an opening just more road."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Newton-Stewart offers fishing opportunities that appeal to families. A visitor described it as a "Fisherman campground" with "45 spots" available for camping.
Kid-friendly features: Some sites offer unique recreational features. At Happy Hollow Homestead, one family noted, "The kids loved the tire swing and tree web. We will definitely be coming back!"
Space considerations: Sites with ample room allow children to explore safely. A family camping at Happy Hollow Homestead appreciated that "we were all impressed with the land and how spaced out the camp sites were."
Cultural events: Seasonal events can enhance family camping experiences. One Happy Hollow visitor mentioned, "The weekend we were there was during the Summer Soulstice music festival. The campground was very lively and everyone was having fun. There was live music and good food."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Forest roads restrict the size of recreational vehicles that can access dispersed sites. A Mitchell Creek Road visitor warned, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around."
Clearance considerations: Some access points require navigating terrain obstacles. A camper at Happy Hollow Homestead in a 20-foot Ford Transit ModVan reported, "We were nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem. Great stay."
Self-containment necessity: Most sites require vehicles to be fully self-sufficient. Mitchell Creek sites are appropriate "if you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle" according to one reviewer who appreciated the "quiet, secluded, and beautiful" location.
