Public lands surrounding Westfield, Indiana offer several tent camping options within an hour's drive. Lake Waveland Park, located about 60 miles southwest in Waveland, provides extensive primitive tent camping opportunities with dozens of first-come, first-served sites. Closer to Westfield, Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort in Pendleton accommodates tent campers with walk-in sites year-round. Clovis Creek, with its 20 tent-only sites, offers another option for backcountry tent camping enthusiasts seeking more seclusion. French Post Park in Delphi provides family-friendly tent camping with dedicated tent areas separate from other camping types.
Most primitive tent sites in the region include basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, though fire rings aren't guaranteed at all locations. Lake Waveland's primitive tent camping sites don't require reservations, making them accessible for spontaneous weekend trips. Sites are typically indicated by the presence of a picnic table rather than formal markings. The grounds at most campgrounds are well-maintained with regular mowing, creating clear tent pads on grassy surfaces. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some primitive tent areas lacking potable water. Campers should verify seasonal availability, as Lake Waveland operates from May 15 to October 15, while Pine Lake offers year-round tent camping options.
Tent campers frequently note the spaciousness of sites compared to more developed campgrounds. According to reviews, "Camp sites seem more spread out here compared to most state parks," making Lake Waveland particularly appealing for those seeking more privacy. The primitive sites at Lake Waveland are described as "very secluded and quiet," though campers advise arriving early as these first-come, first-served spots fill quickly, especially on weekends. Bird watching opportunities abound at several locations, with one visitor noting Lake Waveland is "a lovely space with lots of birds to observe." French Post Park offers a dedicated tent camping section with space to leave vehicles nearby, making it suitable for families with young children new to tent camping. Most tent campgrounds in the region provide access to fishing and water activities as additional recreational options.
"This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children’s museum. The lake is fabulous, but there didn’t seem to be too many fish available for catching!!"
from $25 - $45 / night
"Nice clean park in west-central Indiana that has a lake and a large number of camping sites along with restrooms and showers."
"There are dozens of sites here, drive past the shower house where road bends to the left and down hill."
from $25 - $40 / night
"They have a tent camping section in one area with rooms to leave cars. A boat camp right into the water. A playground. A shelter with plenty of picnic tables to have a fairly large gathering."
ScoutMark & Denise are great camp hosts they care about everyone and will help them if they need it. They do so much for the holidays and have some great times together around the campfires. Will miss them this winter but will be thinking of them during the Army Navy game. (A inside joke lol).
Scoutwe arrived during a halloween kids party. the hostess was super nice. the women’s showers and wash rooms clean. the men’s shower was sport locker style.
ScoutClean paved sites, rigs under 35 feet will fit. Water and electricity 50/30 (water is in the ground.
GuideLast minute late evening online reservation.....Arrived about 900pm...There was still someone at the gate house to check us in.....very nice park staff....clean, safe,secure...elec/water hookup...dump station in park....nice level site although somewhat challenging to back into in the dark. Only downside is the Indiana entrance fee of I think $18(good for a year) on top of site rental....We're from out of state heading back to East coast so it's doubtful we'll be able to use our entrance fee during the next year....nice large sites, hardly any campers near our site. I would camp here again if ever in the area.
ScoutBeautiful, great amenities too. Right off highway to travel anywhere
LegendNice halfway point for our road trip to Door County. We stayed here the week after Labor Day. Not sure if park staff had enough time to clean the grounds after the busy holiday weekend… There was a disappointing amount of litter at our site. We had remove the various cans, plastic bottles and ice pack out of our fire ring and the surrounding wooded area was full of more of the same including a full trash bag of garbage. And speaking of full… the pit toilets…There’s a $15 out of state fee above the $25 p/night charge. There’s only one shower for the park so be prepared. The amount of gnats and mosquitoes had us running for cover. The staff we encountered here, we’re cordial and friendly.
ScoutThis camp ground is located on the other side of the damn. Newly add lots and shower houses also play ground for those with children. For those big kids of us there is also a new RC track. If you like peace and quiet and friendly camp neighbors this is the place for you.
GuideGreat place to stay. Full hook ups, about 90 percent level sites. 33 RV sites and 3 or 4 primitive camp sites. The main bathhouse is pretty clean, included laundry, and a great host and hostess (Mark and Denise). The only bad is the price hikes here. One would think MWR would throw money towards some things...like a dog park, some leveling, lights at the kids playground, and MWR sponsored and paid for holiday parties/outings for vets, retirees, and all the active here on base. But nope, just collecting revenue without any beanies. Anyway, the host keeps it grounded.
GuideBack in site, along the river, has full hooks! Wonderful bike, walking, you could even see horses on the path! Well taken care of campground, owned by the county. Lots of shade trees, clean bathrooms, playground.
Tent campsites near Westfield, Indiana range from primitive locations to more developed sites with basic amenities. Most camping areas are within 30-60 minutes of Westfield, with seasonal availability varying throughout the year. The terrain typically consists of grassy, wooded areas surrounding small lakes or water features that provide fishing opportunities.
Fishing opportunities: Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort in Pendleton offers lakefront access where families can enjoy fishing, though some visitors note mixed results. "This was really convenient and close to Indy, where we took the grandkids to the children's museum. The lake is fabulous, but there didn't seem to be too many fish available for catching," reports camper Debbie S.
Visit nearby state parks: Lake Waveland Park makes an excellent base camp for exploring the region. "The campground is located within close proximity of both Turkey Run and Shades State Park," writes reviewer Sydni T. Many campers use Lake Waveland as a convenient hub for day trips.
Water recreation: Several camping areas include lake access for swimming or boating. Lake Waveland Park features a beach area for swimming during summer months. According to Randy A., "If fishing is your way of relaxing, you should have a good time here."
Spacious sites: Many tent campsites in the area provide more room than typical campgrounds. Randy A. notes that at Lake Waveland Park, "Lake Waveland's grounds crew does a very good job keeping the property in order... and that's no small task, there is a TON of green space on this property!"
Quiet environment: Douglas W. describes Lake Waveland as a "Small but peaceful campground. Well worth the time spent here." This sentiment is echoed across several primitive camping areas in the region where campers appreciate the tranquility.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching is particularly good at several locations. William David S. mentions, "This is a lovely space with lots of birds to observe." Tent campers often report wildlife sightings as a highlight of their stay.
Reservation systems vary: Many primitive sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Kevin T. advises about Lake Waveland, "The site fills up pretty fast so come early. No need to pay because it is first come first serve."
Amenities can be limited: While most locations offer basic facilities, amenities vary significantly. At Clovis Creek, tent campers have access to picnic tables and fire rings, but no drinking water, showers, or flush toilets are available. Plan to bring your own water supply.
Seasonal considerations: Operating seasons differ between campgrounds. Lake Waveland runs from May 15 to October 15, while Pine Lake offers year-round camping options. Always check current operating dates before planning a trip.
Beginner-friendly options: French Post Park caters well to families new to tent camping. Sammii D. notes, "Seems like a beginner place to go camping. Easy for families with young kids. They have a tent camping section in one area with rooms to leave cars."
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds and shelters for family gatherings. French Post Park includes "A playground. A shelter with plenty of picnic tables to have a fairly large gathering," according to Sammii D.
Special events: Seasonal activities can enhance family camping experiences. Nicole B. mentions that Lake Waveland hosts "Fireworks in July and Halloween for the whole family in October."
Site selection: At Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort, RV campers often suggest the camping areas are better suited for shorter stays. Debbie S. advises, "Pretty place and fun for a laid back place to stay. I wouldn't recommend it for long term."
Limited big rig access: Most tent camping areas near Westfield have limited big rig access. At Lake Waveland, Nicole B. points out they "need more spots for those long campers. Lots of pop up size sites."
Electric and water hookups: While primitive tent sites typically lack utilities, some campgrounds offer mixed areas. Nicole B. notes that at Lake Waveland, "the best part is sites include water and electric."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Westfield, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Westfield, IN is Pine Lake Fishing & Camping Resort with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 4 tent camping locations near Westfield, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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