Peninsula Trail

Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers 36 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and horse riding through scenic hardwood forest and varied terrain with views of nearby Monroe Lake. The area was designated a wilderness in 1982 and encompasses nearly 12,953 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. Wilderness designation places this area in a special legal status (subject to the 1964 Wilderness Act). It is managed to preserve a natural condition and provide opportunities for solitude. Since its designation as a wilderness, visitor use in the area increased to a point that significant damage was occurring. Special restrictions are in place to protect the wilderness character. Visitors to this special place are asked to follow these restrictions to lessen your impact and share responsibility in preserving this unique natural resource.

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

## Overview

Hardin Ridge is a 1,200-acre recreational complex located on the shores of Monroe Reservoir in Hooiser National Forest. The complex includes six shady campground loops, two picnic areas with shelters, and two rental cabins. The area offers something for everyone, with activities like camping, picnicking, boat launching, swimming, nature walks, and interpretive programs offered in a forested environment.

## Recreation

A 300-foot swimming beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above. There are no lifeguards on duty. No glass containers or pets are allowed in the beach area. The Hardin Ridge Trail is a 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail that runs from the day use area to the various campground loops. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or bike, as well as a scenic overlook. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the lakeshore within the recreational complex, but several quiet inlets provide secluded fishing holes along the lake's banks. Popular catches include blue gill, striped bass, large mouth bass and crappie. On the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, visitors can travel 1.2 miles through a scenic hardwood forest, along a small creek and down to Lake Monroe and back. On the trail, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history, geology, and wildlife common to southern Indiana. For visitors interested in boating, the lake has a 3-lane launch ramp that is open year-round. A 75 vehicle/trailer parking area is also available as well as a fully accessible loading dock provided at the boat ramp. 

## Facilities

There are 197 camp sites at Hardin Ridge, 36 of which are walk-in tenting only sites. With the exception of Eads and Southern Point loops, the areas have electric hookups at about half the sites (walk-in sites to do not have electric hookups). Centralized water, flush toilets and showers are provided. In addition to the campground loops, there are two picnic areas with numerous tables, along with three shelter houses, two of which overlook the lake. Two of the shelters also have electricity and lights. If the shelters are not reserved, they may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is ample space in the fields around the picnic sites for games. The Hardin Ridge Recreation Area has two primitive cabins available for rent. The cabins each offer 6 bunk beds, one of which is a double bed, for a total sleeping capacity of 7 people. The cabins are located on the shores of Lake Monroe, between the boat launch and swimming beach. There is a picnic shelter nearby and a shared toilet between the two cabins. 

## Natural Features

Monroe Reservoir spans 10,750-acres and is the largest lake in Indiana. There is an overlook on Hardin Ridge Road that is spectacular in any season and gives visitors a high vantage point of the lake, colorful marinas across the water and a vast expanse of forest. The entire area is forested with hardwoods and is well-shaded to give visitors the feel of being in the deep woods. In spring, the dogwoods and redbuds bring bright color to the forest and in fall, the foliage offers colors in vibrant hues of yellow, orange and red.

Hardin Ridge

The Hickory Ridge Horsecamp is designed for horse camping, however, any National Forest visitor is welcome to camp at no cost. It is a primitive campground but accessible vault toilets, hitching racks, and water for livestock is provided. Day use parking is also provided. Click here for a flier with a map and information.

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp

Free Spirit Campground

This campground loop is a shady campground with 60 tent and trailer sites. This is the most remote and wooded of the loops at Hardin Ridge. Several of the sites are set back from the campground road and 14 of the tent sites are walk-in. None of the sites on Southern Point have electricity. ACTIVITIES Camping: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 60 sites, none of which are electric. Southern Point is generally open year-round. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Recreational Vehicles: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 46 sites appropriate for RVs, none of which are electric. Southern Point is generally open year-round but if closed in winter months, another loop will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Wildlife Viewing: Each of the six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area provide ample opportunities to see wildlife. While staying in the campground you share the birds and animal's home and are likely to see them come right up to your campsite.

Hoosier National Forest Southern Point Loop Campground

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From the sandy bluffs and hundreds of lakes in the north to the limestone caverns in the south, Indiana’s parks are popular with outdoor lovers. In a state defined by its love for automobiles, peaceful afternoons on the river and hundreds of miles of remote hiking are just a short trip away. You don’t have to look far to find your getaway, so come and discover camping in Indiana! 


With over 30 state parks and a national forest, it’s not hard to find the perfect place to spend the night. Campers love finding the best place to visit in the fall for the perfect autumn colors, and tranquil summer evenings are a great time to get family together outside for a weekend away.    


Find your escape on Indiana’s White River, which meanders for over 200 miles through sandstone bluffs that rise from the river banks. Excellent fishing opportunities and an abundance of wildlife make the White River a hit with locals and tourists alike. With over 12 unique sections of the river to explore, it’s a perfect excuse to call in from work and go camping in Indiana. 


Nature lovers camping in Indiana will love the bird watching and serene landscapes of Indiana’s riverways. Call ahead and get set up with an outfitter to guide you through the best fishing holes in the river. Adventure lovers might prefer heading out on their own, thanks to a detailed river guide available online. 


Indiana’s Knobstone Trail is a must for hikers and backpackers. Link up with the Tecumseh Trail in the north and the 140-mile trail puts to rest the myths that the state is all-flat. Start within a stone’s throw of Louisville for a hike that winds through hardwood forests, tree-top panoramas, and Southern Indiana’s unglaciated and surprisingly hilly terrain. 


Trying to escape the summer heat? Head south to the limestone region–famous for its hidden caverns–and go camping at Hoosier National Forest. Spend your days off hiking and horseback riding in the park’s 200,000+ acres. With the Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Indiana no matter where the roads take you.

Indiana

The Best Camping in Indiana | 100+ IN Campgrounds

Searching for the best camping near Zelma, IN? Zelma is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Zelma. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Zelma

The Best Camping Near Zelma, Indiana

This campground loop is a shady campground with 17 tent and trailer sites. About half of the sites are electric. This area includes a fishing pond. ACTIVITIES Camping: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 17 sites, all of which are electric (either 30 or 60 amp). White Oak Loop is generally open in the summer months but is closed in winter months, though other loops will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Fishing: A small fishing pond is provided on the campground loop, perfect for families to take their children and catch a few pan fish. Recreational Vehicles: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 17 sites, all of which are electric (either 30 or 60 amp). White Oak Loop is generally open in the summer months but is closed in winter months, though other loops will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Wildlife Viewing: Each of the six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area provide ample opportunities to see wildlife. While staying in the campground you share the birds and animal's home and are likely to see them come right up to your campsite.

Hoosier National Forest White Oak Loop Campground

This campground loop is a shady campground with 40 tent and trailer sites. About half of the sites are electric. This area includes a playground for children. There are eight walk-in sites on this campground loop. ACTIVITIES Camping: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 39 sites, about 3/4 of which are electric. Pine Loop is generally open in the summer months but is closed in winter months, though other loops will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Recreational Vehicles: This is one of six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. It includes 31 sites appropriate for RVs, about 3/4 of which are electric. Pine Loop is generally open in the summer months but is closed in winter months, though other loops will be open. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 8 people are allowed per site. Wildlife Viewing: Each of the six shady campground loops in the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area provide ample opportunities to see wildlife. While staying in the campground you share the birds and animal's home and are likely to see them come right up to your campsite.

Pine Loop

Ransburg Scout Reservation

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Indianapolis, IN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Indianapolis camping trip.

Indianapolis

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Are you in need of a campground near Fort Wayne, IN? Fort Wayne is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Fort Wayne, IN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Fort Wayne

The Best Camping Near Fort Wayne, Indiana

Searching for the best camping near Evansville, IN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Evansville, IN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Evansville

The Best Camping Near Evansville, Indiana

South Bend, IN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of South Bend. Discover great camping spots near South Bend, reviewed by campers like you.

South Bend

The Best Camping Near South Bend, Indiana

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Carmel, IN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Indiana camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Carmel camping trip.

Carmel

The Best Camping Near Carmel, Indiana

Searching for the best camping near Carmel, IN? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Carmel, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Carmel, IN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Searching for the best camping near Hammond, IN? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Hammond, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Hammond, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Hammond

The Best Camping Near Hammond, Indiana

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Gary. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Indiana camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Gary

The Best Camping Near Gary, Indiana

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Gary, IN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Muncie, IN has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Muncie, IN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Muncie

The Best Camping Near Muncie, Indiana

While you may not think of Indiana first when you think of nature lovers’ bucket list spots, Indiana Dunes State Park is an underrated gem. With a tandem national park, Indiana Dunes has one major campground in the state park and one in the national park.

There are a few campsites in the state and national park sections, but reservations are always a good idea. You can reserve a spot ahead of time on the state park website. Of the two, you may find the national park area is usually a bit more secluded. With more than 100 large, RV-friendly sites, RV and tent campers can enjoy this patch of Indiana. The best camping near Indiana Dunes State Park is in the national park or Dune Acres. You should be able to get a spot when you want one, but if you want more amenities, you can stay in nearby Chesterton, IN.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Indiana Dunes National Park, IN has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Indiana Dunes National Park, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Indiana camping adventure.

The Best Camping Near Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

Looking for the best campgrounds near Hoosier National Forest, IN? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Hoosier National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hoosier National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

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The Best Camping Near Hoosier National Forest, Indiana

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Brookville Lake, IN has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Brookville Lake camping trip.

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The Best Camping Near Brookville Lake, Indiana

Join the fun near J. Edward Roush Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of J. Edward Roush Lake. Discover great camping spots near J. Edward Roush Lake, reviewed by campers like you.

J. Edward Roush Lake

The Best Camping Near J. Edward Roush Lake, Indiana

Norfork Lake, IN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Indiana camping adventure.

Norfork Lake

The Best Camping Near Norfork Lake, Indiana

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Caesar Creek Lake, IN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Caesar Creek Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Caesar Creek Lake camping trip.

Caesar Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Caesar Creek Lake, Indiana

Cherry Creek Lake, IN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Cherry Creek Lake. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Cherry Creek Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Cherry Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Cherry Creek Lake, Indiana

Searching for the best camping near Heyburn Lake, IN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Heyburn Lake

The Best Camping Near Heyburn Lake, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping in Zelma, Indiana

Top Zelma Campgrounds

Hardin Ridge

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp

Free Spirit Campground

Hoosier National Forest Southern Point Loop Campground

Hoosier National Forest White Oak Loop Campground

Pine Loop

Peninsula Trail

Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

Ransburg Scout Reservation

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Hardin Ridge

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp

Free Spirit Campground

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Peninsula Trail

Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

Browse Zelma Hike-In

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp

Peninsula Trail

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

Browse Zelma Walk-In

Hardin Ridge

Hickory Ridge Horse Camp

Hoosier National Forest Southern Point Loop Campground

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