Best Dispersed Camping in Indiana

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.

Best Dispersed Sites in Indiana (14)

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Recent Dispersed Reviews in Indiana

33 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.