Tent campsites near Tennyson, Indiana include several dispersed camping locations within Hoosier National Forest, which covers over 200,000 acres of forested terrain. Summer temperatures in the region typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate camping conditions. Several primitive camping areas have limited or no cell service, requiring advance planning for navigation and safety.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Mitchell Creek Road offers access to multiple unmarked trails along creek beds where tent campers can day hike. A recent visitor noted, "There are rock outcroppings along this road, which follows Mitchell Creek and lots to explore on foot."
Watch wildlife: The forests surrounding Happy Hollow Homestead provide habitat for various wildlife species. According to one camper, "The forest is beautiful and we had no problems with ticks or mosquitoes while sleeping in our hammocks."
Kayaking opportunities: The lakes near Paoli offer non-motorized boating access for tent campers willing to pack light. A visitor to Springs Valley Rec Area commented, "this is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. electric motors only, so nice and quiet."
Visit waterfalls: Several tent camping areas provide access to seasonal creek-fed waterfalls. One Happy Hollow visitor mentioned that during a property tour they "saw a beautiful creek with waterfall, bee hives and sinkholes."
What campers like
Separation between sites: Unlike crowded campgrounds, many primitive tent sites near Tennyson offer substantial privacy. At Happy Hollow Homestead, campers appreciate that "we were all impressed with the land and how spaced out the camp sites were."
Low traffic areas: For those seeking solitude, Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed provides exceptionally quiet camping. One reviewer shared, "While I was exploring and camping on this road, only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet."
Self-contained camping: Many dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency but reward with pristine surroundings. A camper noted, "if you are camping in a self-contained SMALL vehicle, this is quiet, secluded, and beautiful."
Kid-friendly features: Some established campgrounds include natural play areas. At Happy Hollow, "The kids loved the tire swing and tree web. The tire swing was also fun for the kids."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most dispersed tent sites provide minimal to no facilities. One visitor to Mitchell Creek Road observed, "There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities."
Navigation challenges: Paper maps are essential as GPS and cell service are unreliable. A camper advised, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty."
Vehicle accessibility: Many primitive sites have size restrictions and challenging access roads. At Newton-Stewart, campers find "Primitive. 45 spots" primarily designed for smaller vehicles and tents.
Road conditions: After rainfall, some access roads become difficult to navigate. One camper at Happy Hollow mentioned, "We were nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Since many tent campsites lack developed amenities, family-friendly activities are important. Happy Hollow Homestead offers natural play areas where "The tree web is a giant net about 15 feet in the air. My boys loved climbing up and laying in the web."
Check restroom situations: Some camping areas have no facilities while others offer basic options. One visitor to Newton-Stewart noted they "Didn't camp/just used the bathroom. Primitive."
Consider established campgrounds: Yellowbank Creek provides basic toilet facilities that may be better suited for families than fully dispersed options.
Visit during events: Some campgrounds host occasional gatherings that can enhance family experiences. A 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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed tent camping areas near Tennyson cannot accommodate large vehicles. A Mitchell Creek Road visitor cautioned, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around."
Small van camping: While large RVs are challenging, smaller vans can access some areas. One camper shared, "The area was rather buggy, and to be honest a little sketchy, so we slept in our van."
Clearance considerations: Forest roads may present clearance challenges for some vehicles. A Happy Hollow visitor with a "20' Ford Transit ModVan" reported a "Great stay" despite initial concerns about road conditions.
