Best Dispersed Camping in Indiana

Dispersed camping opportunities in Indiana include several primitive sites within the Hoosier National Forest. Berry Ridge Road offers secluded, free camping with sites spaced far apart for privacy. Peninsula Trail provides marked backcountry sites with fire rings, particularly along Lake Monroe. Mitchell Creek Road features limited roadside pull-offs suitable for small vehicles and tent camping. The Knobstone Trail, often called "The Little AT" by experienced hikers, offers challenging terrain with primitive camping options along its route.

Most dispersed sites require strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. According to reviews, Mitchell Creek Road sites are "not a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land with no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities." Fire regulations permit campfires at most locations, though visitors must use established fire rings where available. Cell service is unreliable throughout these areas; paper maps are recommended for navigation. Several campers noted that Berry Ridge Road sites are "very private with decent sized space to park for 2-3 vehicles," though some locations can be difficult to spot at night.

Access varies significantly between sites. Berry Ridge Road accommodates small to medium vehicles on gravel roads that can become steep in sections. Peninsula Trail requires hiking in, with campsites located "very far apart and totally private." Water availability is limited; no potable water exists at most sites. Wildlife encounters are common, with reports of coyotes and turtles. Visitors should prepare for complete self-sufficiency with all necessary supplies. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during spring and fall. Seasonal closures may affect accessibility during winter months or after heavy rainfall when roads become muddy or washed out.

Best Dispersed Sites in Indiana (14)

    1. Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    Freetown, IN
    Website
    +1 (812) 275-5987

    "Free camp ground. Very private. Decent sized space to park for 2-3 vehicles."

    "Multiple campsites in the area, I've stayed at two both of which were away from others, clean, fairly flat and had plenty of dead wood around to burn."

    2. Peninsula Trail

    7 Reviews
    Clear Creek, IN
    Website

    "The Peninsula Trail and Grub Ridge trails both have marked campsites that are very far apart and totally private.  These are dispersed/primitive sites with a fire ring only. "

    "Primitive camping at its finest. Long walk to the water so make sure you bring plenty of drinking water. Springs available in the valleys but watch for timber rattlesnakes."

    3. Knobstone Trail

    3 Reviews
    Borden, IN
    Website
    +1 (812) 358-2160

    "Most people, even Hoosiers don't realize the Knobstone Trail exists. It's often referred to The Little AT by those who know about it. It's no walk in the park."

    "The KT is rugged and has lots of elevation gains over short distances. Everywhere you hike there are lovely vistas and lots of fossils on the trail snd creek beds."

    4. Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Birdseye, IN

    "This is NOT a campground, but just roadside pull-offs on public land. There are no restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, or other amenities."

    "Spot has a creek and is flat enough for a tent mostly just a single person spot no toilets. Road south coming in was destroyed some time ago have to w yer from east or west road."

    5. Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Albion, IN

    "Although it states in the app free dispersed camping. Doesn't always mean just that. The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks."

    7. Jackson Trailhead

    1 Review
    Borden, IN
    Website
    +1 (812) 294-4306

    "there’s parking after a decrepit gravel road and suitable for camping. there are campsites along the trail just have to find them"

    9. Hickory Ridge Primitive Dispersed Campsites

    1 Review
    Norman, IN

    "I pulled in at midnight in a sedan in the winter and i was able to safely find my way. Very nice drive during the day, hiking is fantastic!"

    10. Sundance Lake Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Freetown, IN

    "A quiet little lake/ big pond in the Hoosier National Forest with a few spots to camp.

    At the pond there was a pad of concrete leftover from who knows what."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Indiana

22 Photos of 14 Indiana Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews in Indiana

36 Reviews of 14 Indiana Campgrounds



Guide to Indiana

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping in Indiana, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors without the crowds.

Top Activities for Free Camping in Indiana

  • Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping, where visitors appreciate the long, secluded roads perfect for tent camping.
  • Experience the tranquility of Peninsula Trail, known for its marked campsites that offer privacy and a chance to stargaze away from city lights.
  • Hike the rugged terrain of Knobstone Trail, often referred to as "The Little AT," where adventurers can enjoy stunning vistas and fossil hunting.

Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping in Indiana

  • Bring your own drinking water and supplies when heading to Mitchell Creek Road, as amenities are limited and the area is known for its rugged beauty.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek at Jackson Trailhead, where finding suitable campsites along the trail can lead to rewarding experiences.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings at Horse Camp Rd Dispersed, a well-reviewed spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.