Tent camping near Waverly, Indiana offers varied terrain from dense forests to lake shorelines within a 30-mile radius. The region sits on the edge of the glaciated and unglaciated portions of Indiana, creating diverse landscapes with rolling hills to the south and flatter terrain to the north. Winter camping remains available at several sites, though water access may be limited from November through March during freezing conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Waveland: Lake Waveland Park provides shore fishing opportunities with multiple primitive sites positioned near the water. "The lake is popular for fishing," notes Mike V., who appreciates the park's "clean" facilities and "spread out" campsites compared to state parks.
Hiking at Morgan-Monroe State Forest: Morgan-Monroe State Forest features extensive trail networks including shorter nature paths and longer routes. "There are many trails in MMSF. Good hiking," reports Daisy C., who enjoyed the "feeling of seclusion" at this campground just north of Bloomington. Another visitor adds, "There are a lot of trails to hike 2 of them are over 10 miles (lower gap and three lakes)."
Wildlife viewing at Charles C. Deam Wilderness: Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "We love this area for roughing it. We usually choose a site far back into the wilderness area," shares Cory H. Sarah R. discovered unique geological features: "I walked the creek for hours just looking at all the rocks on the sandbars. I have never encountered so many geodes in my life."
What campers like
Solitude in national forest land: Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping provides exceptional privacy with sites spaced along gravel roads. "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," reports Jeremy F. Another camper experienced complete seclusion: "Beautiful secluded site that is pretty far off of the road, but not too far. There was no traffic or other people in site."
Rustic wilderness camping: Primitive sites throughout the region offer authentic backcountry experiences. "This area is so beautiful! We visited during mid-April, perfect for finding morels. The trails are well paved and marked, not too strenuous," notes Hannah F. about her experience at Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Night sky viewing: Low light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "For those of you who don't understand disperse camping this is the perfect site for a tent to camp without anything but what you bring in and take out," explains James W. about the Berry Ridge Road area, which offers open sky views from several campsites.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many dispersed sites require bringing your own water. "This is pack in pack out, no amenities camping for free," notes Jeremy F. about Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping. Seasonal availability affects water sources, with most state forest sites turning off spigots during winter months.
Terrain considerations: Hickory Ridge Primitive Dispersed Campsites has rough access roads but remains accessible with careful driving. "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!" reports Jimmy H.
Reservation systems vary: Lake Waveland Park uses a first-come, first-served system for primitive sites. "I came here for one night and it was o.k. The sites are kind of too close together. The campsite do have fire rings and picnic tables. The site fills up pretty fast so come early," explains Kevin T.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Lake Waveland Park offers family-oriented activities and amenities. "They do have a beach. A few cabins for rent. Fireworks in July and Halloween for the whole family in October," notes Nicole B. about the park's seasonal events.
Scout camp facilities: Ransburg Scout Reservation permits public camping with access to structured activities. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails," shares Margo B., who has both tent and cabin camped at the facility.
Educational opportunities: Morgan-Monroe State Forest features interpretive trails. "Recommend the tree trail," suggests Rob R., who found the forest "relatively light with other campers" even during busy seasons.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions on forest roads: Many dispersed and primitive sites have limited turning room and rough access. "Our camper is about 25' and it was tight get in and out of the campground. If you have a small camper (15' or smaller) there would more sites," explains Ron H. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Small RV options at Berry Ridge: "Some sites, at least one, could fit a pretty good sized camper," notes Jeremy F., though most reviewers recommend tent camping only. Another camper reports, "If you are into boondocking at all defiantly check out berry ridge it's just south of brown county Indiana beautiful country mostly hills tons of camp spots sometimes half mile or more apart."
Hookup availability: While most forest campgrounds lack amenities, Morgan-Monroe provides some basic services. "We had no trouble fitting into our small camper. This is a great place to camp and hike, although there is no electric hookup we had a generator that we used sparklingly," shares Don N., who camped in a 21-foot Winnebago Micro Minnie.
