Terre Haute camping areas offer diverse experiences across three counties with over 500 campsites within a 35-mile radius. The region features mixed hardwood forests and limestone terrain with summer temperatures averaging 85°F between June and September. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 500-650 feet above sea level, providing moderate terrain for both tent camping and upscale outdoor accommodations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes near Shakamak State Park Campground support various fish species. The park contains three lakes spanning approximately 400 acres known for excellent fishing. "This is a fishing park. Boating with electric motors, so a quiet lake. Fishing was fair according to my fishing guy," notes Cynthia K., who appreciates the park's quiet atmosphere.
Hiking trails: Explore moderate terrain and unique geological features. At Turkey Run State Park Campground, hikers find varying difficulty levels across multiple trail systems. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," recommends Samantha S. Another visitor mentions, "On one trail part of it went through box canyons up an active, though trickling, stream bed."
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, explore creek paddling options. Many visitors appreciate Sugar Creek for water activities. According to Barry B., "The best part of Turkey Run is sugar creek. You can choose 2 different canoe trips." Visitors frequently mention renting canoes from outfitters located near campgrounds for half-day or full-day trips.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Mature forests provide natural cooling during summer months. At Rockville Lake County Park, campers appreciate the tree cover. One visitor reports, "Remainder of campground is nearly always shaded. Playground located in middle of loop and accessible/visible from any of sites on loop area." The park's modern sites offer varying levels of shade depending on location.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathhouses and shower facilities receive consistent praise. Throughout the camping areas near Terre Haute, bathhouse cleanliness stands out. At Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area, visitors note, "Bathroom facilities are very clean, new bike, walking, rollerblading path. Beach is large and clean." Another camper adds, "Clean restrooms. No cell service but who needs it!"
Primitive and glamping options: Multiple accommodation styles available within single parks. For those seeking luxury camping or glamping in Terre Haute, Indiana, several options exist beyond standard sites. According to a visitor at Rockville Lake, "We stayed at site 30, a modern site with water, electric and sewer. Sharing of water and electric between two sites, so come prepared with extensions for water and electric."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require equipment for proper leveling. At Turkey Run, one camper noted, "We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167." Similarly at Hawthorn County Park, visitors mention varying site quality: "We passed through here and stayed the night. Prices are a little high compared to when you receive but the park is beautiful."
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons frequently mentioned as persistent visitors. Multiple reviews across campgrounds mention raccoon activity. As one camper at Turkey Run warns, "As some other reviews stated, watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything."
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Most glamping accommodations near Terre Haute, Indiana operate between April and October, with some sites closing earlier. Hawthorn County Park specifically operates from May 1 to October 15, with limited availability during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Select sites with clear views of play areas. Rockville Lake County Park offers family-friendly layouts: "Playground located in middle of loop and accessible/visible from any of sites on loop area. Newer restroom/showerhouse well kept." This arrangement allows parents to monitor children while maintaining camp.
Weekend planning: Consider Thursday arrival to avoid crowds. As one visitor to Turkey Run advises, "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning / early afternoon. Saturday we rented a canoe from a canoe place right down the road from the campground."
Fishing for kids: Multiple locations offer accessible shore fishing. Fowler's Park receives high marks for family activities. "Our family loves this park. There is plenty to do or not do. Lake is great for fishing, also the beach is very nice. Pioneer village is so neat to walk around," notes one visitor. Several parks offer dedicated fishing piers and accessible shorelines for young anglers.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords and water hoses: Prepare for varied hookup locations. When glamping in upscale accommodations near Terre Haute, Indiana, proper equipment matters. One Rockville Lake visitor advises: "Sharing of water and electric between two sites, so come prepared with extensions for water and electric."
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers for privacy and shade. RVers consistently recommend researching specific site numbers before booking. At Turkey Run, one camper notes: "Also, the open, grassy area sites don't offer any privacy. If that's what you're looking for, try to get a wooded site on the outsides that back up to woods."
Electrical options: Most parks offer 30/50 amp service but with limitations. According to a Hawthorn County Park visitor: "They've also just updated their campsites, pull throughs have 30/50 amp electric. Some sites have both water and electric hookup and a view of the lake from your site."
