Campgrounds near Tennyson, Indiana offer a variety of camping experiences in southern Indiana's rolling terrain. The area sits in a region characterized by small lakes, reclaimed mining land, and forested hills at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons bring milder weather and fewer crowds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Scales Lake Park features a well-stocked lake for fishing. "Scales Lake is a wonderful campground. It has primitive, cabins, and RV camping. There is a boat ramp for fishing boats and kayaks," notes Jennifer T. at Scales Lake Park.
Hiking trails: Indian-Celina Recreation Area offers scenic forest trails connecting camping loops. "We really enjoyed the hiking at this site. The trails were long, but not too difficult, but slightly overgrown. They had very pretty views of the lake," shares Hadley O. at Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Historical exploration: Learn about Abraham Lincoln's childhood at sites near Lincoln State Park. "Hiked through the forest to where Abraham Lincoln grew up in Indiana. Fished the lake caught fish for dinner. Really enjoyed my time here," explains Jerry R. about his experience at Gobbler's Run Campground.
What campers like
Petting zoo access: Scales Lake offers a unique petting zoo experience. "There is a small petting zoo at the park and in the morning they let the animals out to feed on the grass. So expect to see them in the campground. Harmless and unique," mentions Keith P. from Warrick County Park Scales Lake Park.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Tennyson maintain well-kept bathhouses. "Sites are well spaced. Clean, professional state park. Lake is being drained, so no beach until 2026," reports Tom B. about Lake Lincoln Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Location near Holiday World theme park makes camping convenient. "Great campgound with nice wide spots. Close to Holiday World. Awesome trails. Stop in at Jenk's Pizza in Dale for dinner," suggests Keith M. from Lincoln State Park.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. "Nice and clean great spot to camp and fish the hwy was a lil loud," mentions Andi W. about Lynnville Park.
Reservation systems: Several parks use honor systems for after-hours check-in. "We checked in through the honor system as the store/office closed at 5p; we filled out a registration form put $22 in it and put it in the mail slot," explains Kelly W. about Lynnville Park.
Seasonal closures: Facilities may have limited operation during off-peak times. "The beach, but closed after Labor Day. The camp store is in the pavilion by the beach & has limited hours after Labor Day," notes Cynthia K. about Lincoln State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Many pet-friendly campgrounds host special October events. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving," shares Ashley D. from Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph.
Swimming options: Look for parks with designated swimming areas. "There is a beach area with small fee. Full hook up sites," mentions Jessica D. about Scales Lake Park, adding recreational options for families with children and dogs.
Playgrounds available: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained. "There's a beach for swimming and a shower house. We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake," explains Laura D. about her experience at Scales Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Some RV sites offer more privacy than others. "The sites were very spacious and not jammed up against other sites. It is very family oriented with plenty of friendly campers," says Nancy R. about Indian-Celina Recreation Area.
Hookup availability: Check water access before arrival. "Recently tried out Scales Lake...not my 1st choice. Sites were very small and close together. There were several different spots/clusters of camp sites. Some where full hook up, some primitive, some just electric, and all mixed together," advises Olivia S.
Leveling requirements: Some sites require minimal leveling while others present challenges. "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However we only got the spot because at the others were sold out. Many of the other Spots were on hills and right on top of each other," warns megan about Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph.
