Top Glamping 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 Glamping Sites in Indiana (105)

1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
121 Reviews
•320 Photos•
446 Saves
Overview
Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.__
Recreation
There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.
Facilities
There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.
Natural Features
Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead ) are located within its boundaries.______ The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.____ For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.__
Nearby Attractions
Located close to the campground is Lake View Beach on Lake Michigan which is located 1.5 miles north of the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. Do NOT park in the Town of Beverly Shores' beach parking lot, which is located just to the east of the Lake View lot. You will get ticketed. The town is very strict. A gas station / convenience store is located __ mile north of the campground at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue, __ mile north of the campground. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.
Charges & Cancellations
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$25 / night
2. Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
66 Reviews
•240 Photos•
371 Saves
As Indiana’s second state park, Turkey Run Campground was established in 1916. The story behind its name suggests that local hunters would find herds of wild turkeys gathering in the area’s narrow canyon bottoms—called “runs”—and funnel them out for easy harvesting. The area’s natural history goes back a little father—upwards of 600 million years. It was around this time that the sandstone and coal deposits seen in the park were being formed and compacted in a vast, swampy plain. Fast-forward several million years, and Ice Age meltwaters cut and scoured the creeks, canyons, and potholes seen today. Some of the glacial erratics (boulders) seen in the park are actually pieces of bedrock that were transported from as far north as Canada. Visitors to Turkey Run can explore these unique canyons, enjoy the park’s natural scenery, fish and paddle in Sugar Creek, and see several historic sites.
Located 10 miles north of Rockville, and 70 miles west of Indianapolis, Turkey Run State Park is year-round nature and recreation area covering nearly 2,400 acres along Sugar Creek. The campground at Turkey Run features more than 200 tent and RV sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables and fire pits with cooking grills; some sites are ADA accessible. Most sites are back-in and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 45 feet; a few pull-throughs can accommodate larger. All sites have access to drinking water, flush and vault restrooms, and showers; two dump stations are available onsite. There are also two primitive tent camping areas for youth groups, several cabins for rent, and the historic Turkey Run Inn, which offers 61 lodge rooms, a dining room, and meeting spaces. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Campsites raters are $23–$33/night; other accommodations range from $67–$110/night; reservations accepted.
Besides exploring Turkey Run’s canyon runs, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports courts. The park’s nature center showcases a variety of exhibits and interactive activities to educate visitors about the park’s geology, flora and fauna. Park naturalists offer guided hikes and nature walks, animal talks and campfire programs. Swimming is not permitted in Sugar Creek, but anglers can fish for bass and bluegill, and paddlers can head out in canoes and kayaks. Swimmers are invited to enjoy the park’s Olympic-sized swimming pool for cooling off during the warmer months. The park also offers hayrides and guided horseback rides. For a blast from the past, visitors can also tour the historic Lusk Home. Built in 1841, this restored European home displays a lifestyle from a bygone era. Watch out for the resident raccoons.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
48 Reviews
•167 Photos•
160 Saves
Nine connecting lakes will be the center of your adventures at Chain O’Lakes. This is lake country and a small boater’s paradise. Paddle through the chain of serene kettle lakes, hike the 23 miles of forested trails, fish the electric-motors-only lakes, stay overnight in a forested hillside family cabin, visit the park's historic one-room Stanley Schoolhouse, or explore the Nature Center. Other facilities available for visitors to enjoy include Chain O' Lakes Campground, beach and picnic shelters.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$20 - $25 / night
4. Potato Creek State Park Campground
47 Reviews
•65 Photos•
149 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Pokagon State Park Campground
46 Reviews
•80 Photos•
185 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground
44 Reviews
•96 Photos•
655 Saves
Camping options: Dunbar Group Site and General Camping
Dunbar Group: The Dunbar Group Site holds up to 30 people and is located less than 500 feet from the beach. The site overlooks the Great Marsh and Lake Michigan. Parking and restrooms are located in the Dunbar Beach parking lot, 400 feet from the site.
Indiana Dunes consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful, historic, and unique Hoosier landscape. It lies at the north end of State Road 49 in Porter County and includes more than three miles of beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. In the early 1900s scientists, recreationists, and nature enthusiasts, recognizing the value and potential of the Indiana dunes area, fought to have the region preserved. As a result, in 1925, the state park was established.
Large sand dunes, located beyond the entire shoreline, have taken thousands of years to form, and tower nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan. A wide range of habitats and plant species are found in the park, with vegetation stabilizing some of the sand. These habitats provide homes for many types of plants and animals. The lake also provides a habitat for many aquatic species, as well as a constantly changing fishery.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$12 - $44 / night
7. Harmonie State Park Campground
34 Reviews
•99 Photos•
76 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$30 / night
8. Charlestown State Park Campground
33 Reviews
•145 Photos•
196 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$7 - $30 / night
9. Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area
32 Reviews
•156 Photos•
113 Saves
Native forest and large rock outcrops line the upper part of Big Raccoon Creek. Cecil M. Harden Lake resulted from the damming of the creek for flood control. Raccoon Lake Camping also provides recreation, wildlife management and economic benefits. A variety of fish, flora and fauna can be viewed at the property.
Nearby Historic Mansfield Roller Mill is a preserved, working example of industrialization in Indiana at the turn of the 20th century. This 1880s flour mill uses machinery from that time to show visitors how flour and cornmeal were processed from wheat and corn. It is an almost complete and unchanged example of flour mills from this time period.
Camping:
-Electric / 240 sites
-Non-electric / 37 sites
-Primitive / 35 sites
-Youth Tent Areas
-Camp Store
-Dumping Station
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
10. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
33 Reviews
•62 Photos•
104 Saves
Immerse yourself in the magic of America's Christmas Hometown with a stay at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, formerly known as Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort. Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of southern Indiana, our resort offers a range of unforgettable camping and lodging experiences that cater to families of all sizes.
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, a two-time National RV Park of the Year, is nestled in the captivating town of Santa Claus. Discover spacious RV and tent sites, charming vacation rentals, and breathtaking scenery.
Experience an extraordinary stay with incredible amenities and activities. Dive into Santa's SplashDown WaterPark, make a splash at Blitzen Bay pool, and enjoy miniature golf. Treat yourself at our snack bar, let your furry friends play in the dog park, and embrace outdoor adventures like fishing, paddle boating, and scenic trails. Explore Santa Claus' magical attractions, including Santa's Candy Castle and the Santa Claus Christmas Store, with Holiday World Theme Park nearby.
Create cherished memories and embrace the joy and wonder of Santa Claus at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. Your adventure awaits!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$45 - $101 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 105 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Indiana

1156 Reviews of 105 Indiana Campgrounds

Brian O.
Legend
October 17, 2024
Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
Can be crowded, but a good park overall
We were a bit surprised that despite having a paid reservation , we still had to pay a $20 Day usage fee to enter the park, but no matter. This is a sprawling and sometimes confusing campground to find your way in. But the sites are generally shady if a bit close together. There are five facilities with showers and running water and six pit toilets. drinking water is accessible throughout the park.
The majority of sites have six person tables, though some, especially in the new 385-416 loop have little four person tables. These are also the least shaded.
Campground and facilities are clean and well maintained.
The General Store is one of the most impressively well stocked I have ever seen. Equipment, toys, tools, food souvenirs, you name it. Good dry firewood is $6.50 a bundle in the store, $7 on the honor system after hours. It burns fast, so you might want to buy more than you think. The store is open until 9:00 Friday & Saturday, but only 2;PM on Sunday and never on Monday. Keep that in mind if you're doing a 3-day weekend as we did. When checking out, look up to see the beautiful wooden canoe with wildlife inlaid wood.
Fire pits are mostly round iron with non-adjustable swing-away grills. Booking is through Indiana DNR/ Reserve America so you can see photos of the site you pick.
This was our second experience with an Indiana state park, and like our first (Pokagon, in the winter) we were impressed with the clear marking of the hiking trails (and canoe trail for that matter) there was a map and guidepost at every junction.
There's a beach, concession stand and boat rentals on Sand lake, the Park's largest. Lastly, there's a fish cleaning shed with running water outside the campground entrance that anyone in the park can use, something I wish more parks would provide.
Aly E.
Guide
October 5, 2024
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
Great area
Lovely area and there’s so many beach areas nearby. Not on the lake but close! Best hike nearby is Mount Baldy! It’s short and you have the beach to yourself!
Amy S.
Scout
October 5, 2024
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
Safe and comfortable campground
Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.
jennifer C.
Scout
September 20, 2024
France Park
Great place for the whole family to camp at !
Hit a little rough patch in life and needed a break from sleeping in the car and hotels . All the staff at the park were very friendly and understanding of our situation. At $20 a nite for tent site ,showers ,clean toilets ,whole park is very clean ! Lots of things to do here and the waterfall was our fav part ! Deff will be back when in the area . Our site was right down the Rd from the waterfall so had a great view !
Cathy E.
Traveler
September 19, 2024
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
$50 ($25 for the site, $25 for park pass)
Advertised as $25 a night, but you must have an Indiana Dunes park pass, which is only good for this specific park. Site was fine, facilities were decent.
R
Richard H.
Scout
September 8, 2024
White River Campground
Great spot for camping
We are here for just one night as we are headed back to Georgia. I used the Dyrt search and in this area I looked at this place and boy am I glad I did. I wish it were closer to home. We are next to the river and we are loving it. Beautiful sites and family friendly. Staff are great too.
patti J.
Scout
September 7, 2024
Heartland Resort
Staff were helpful
This would most likely be a last resort for us. Went to our campsite only to find someone else using it. Not what you need after driving 400-500 miles. Had to go back to the office and ultimately took a different site after dirty looks from the poachers.
Then the staff told us there was music that night after we told them we just wanted a peaceful nights sleep so we moved to another site further away from the jam session. Whew a lot of work to be here. Cannot recall being impresses with the bathrooms/showers.
Sergio D.
Scout
September 5, 2024
Caboose Lake Campground
Worst place to stay at
Highway is louder than you’d think. No good night rest had. People spy on you just to report you. Main office head woman will not work with you and just give you a flat no when you ask about a refund.
MickandKarla W.
Legend
September 4, 2024
Shipshewana Campground South Park
Okay Stay
We took I-80 all the way to near Shipshewana where the roads took us about 7 miles into the campground (CG). Check-in was quick and easy because we had paid ahead online. We proceeded to pull through site 37 with FHUs. The utilities were in the center, which made it nice to dump our two black tanks in order to go to the Brinkley Service Center the next morning. Water pressure was good at about 50 psi. It was nice that the utilities were on the center of the pad. We got 4 bars on Verizon. If we wanted to put out satellite, we could have as there are not many trees in the central area to block the signal. We tried to sign into the free Wifi with no luck. The website wanted us to sign up for paid internet, which we did not do. The sites in the CG are for the most part very close together. We were here overnight to take our rig into Goshen for warranty work. Coming from the West, stay on I-80 to IN-13(exit 107) as it makes for an easier route than on the local roads versus following your GPS or Waze which may have you exit off in Elkhart. Check out the great selections at Yoder's Meat& Cheese just down the road. This CG was okay for an overnighter or short stay.
Randy P.
Scout
August 25, 2024
Follow The River RV Resort
Great campground
We absolutely love this campground, very friendly staff and well kept and clean!! They are pet friendly and allow portable fences.
N
Nick M.
Traveler
August 15, 2024
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake
Great Family Campground
We brought down 2 30’ campers and we had 4 adults 3 children and two dogs and stay right next to the craft barn. It is a really nice camp ground with lots and lots for the kids to do. My son had a blast and said this was the best campground he has ever been to. My only complaint is that it is quite costly to stay.
W
Wayne D.
Scout
August 14, 2024
Indian-Celina Recreation Area
Peacefull
Quiet. Friendly helpful staf.
Ron J.
Scout
July 26, 2024
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
Horrible
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph View all Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph 4.2(1.2K) OVERVIEW PRICES REVIEWS PHOTOS BY OWNER ABOUT Google review summary 5 4 3 2 1 4.2(1,185) Reviews All cabin184 golf cart167 water slides45 mattress41+6 Sort by Most relevant Newest Highest Lowest ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues… More Stephanie S Local Guide·167 reviews·4193 photos a week ago NEW Our first trip here. We absolutely loved it. All of the staff is very friendly. The park is very clean and we looked out with good neighbors. Golf carts are available to rent and they have golf cart light parades a few… More Video 1 in review by Stephanie S Photo 2 in review by Stephanie S Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a week ago Stephanie, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay and all the amenities our park has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you back for another fantastic visit! Ryan Levasseur Local Guide·19 reviews·12 photos 4 days ago NEW It's so rare to find a place that you wish you would have booked one more night.… More Photo 1 in review by Ryan Levasseur Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) 3 days ago Hi Ryan, thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We are thrilled to hear that you had such a great time during your mini vacation at our campground. It's fantastic to know that you enjoyed the nostalgia, amenities, and activities we offer. We hope to welcome you back soon! Shelbey Sledge 1 review a month ago We stayed from Friday-Monday and 10/10 recommend. We stayed in a tent camp site. Having electric and water was nice. The bathrooms near 119K were personal bathrooms with a shower, toilet, and sink. So much better than a community bathroom.… More Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph(Owner) a month ago Shelbey, thank you for sharing such a detailed review of your experience at our campsite! We are thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time and enjoyed the amenities provided. Your feedback about the lack of hanging space is duly noted, and we will look into improving that aspect. ron james 11 reviews Vacation| Family I have shared with the management at sun outdoors and they have ignored my message. Unit cabin 518 was ant infested and dirty. But the dangerous impact on our health was BLACK MOLD. We all experienced breathing, headaches and other issues but they will not respond I am now on the March for safety and action. I will post on every social media method possible. I asked for their legal contact but they have chosen to ignore. I was handed a spray can for ants and spiders with the message this has a bad smell. Other posts will give more gruesome details Rooms: 1/5| Service: 1/5| Location: 3/5
C
Colleen L.
Scout
July 26, 2024
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
So many bugs!!
This is a nice national park campground and has all that you would expect from that, but the mosquitos here are insane!!! I came back with giant welts from the bites even with bug spray on. I honestly couldn’t wait to leave!
Kenda A.
Guide
July 22, 2024
Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
Friendly park security
We arrived late, and the friendly park security directed us to the campground.
The vault toilets were acceptably clean. Spots were close to the river. The campground has cabins, trails for hiking and horseback riding.
As other reviews have stated….the mosquitoes are prolific and abundant! We left early.
F
Fern B.
Guide
July 21, 2024
Jackson Washington State Forest
Great primitive campground
Spacious sites. Beautiful forest. Quiet, but only 5 minutes small town with gas stations, grocery, etc. Not many amenities. Only pit toilets and water spigots. Firewood was not available during our visit. No reservations. First come first serve, but even on a "busy" Saturday in July less than 1/3 of the sites were full. Two "loops" one in a pine forest below the small lake and one at the lake/up the hill. Multiple playgrounds. Great trails to hike. Cool CCC construction. Highly recommend.
Nathan G.
Traveler
July 13, 2024
O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
Decent campground, best on weekdays
Had the typical state park experience. Bathrooms are decent, a little dated but oh well. The weekends in the middle middle of the season are typically busy. Plan your site well, many lack a level spot for tents and have a lot of slope near the pull off.
Rose S.
Traveler
July 11, 2024
Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
very nice campground close to the NP
This was a very nicely managed site. All services you might want, even showers. Our spot wasn’t very closed off from other sites, and you’re not likely to get much privacy here
Jacob A.
Guide
July 4, 2024
Shakamak State Park — Shakamak Prairie Nature Preserve
One of our favorite parks!
We have been coming here every year since 2016. Most of the sites are shady. Our favorite site is 72. It is close to a water hookup if you need to top off your fresh water tank, shady, and not too close to other sites. They added a new shower house close by in 2022 or 2023.
A
Angelika M.
Traveler
June 25, 2024
Johnny Appleseed Campground
lovely place to stay
just being here for an one night stop. Restrooms are very clean and comfortable. Nice place and very friendly camp hosts
L
Lisa D.
Traveler
June 21, 2024
Indian-Celina Recreation Area
Quite
This is the third time we have stayed here.
Angela J.
Scout
June 20, 2024
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
Poor management oversite
I have tried to contact corporate and been ignored.. We stayed at the Rudolph campsite in Santa Claus Indiana like I stated before we would like a refund for one night and one night of the golf cart as we wound up leaving. the toilet seat was cracked, which pinched me and one of my Children left marks, there were also mouse droppings in the drawer where the silverware was and stains on the sheets. I have pictures of all this and since nobody has contacting us, I will give it until Monday morning and then I will have my attorney contact them with all the pictures since they don’t want to do anything about this and then I will also be posting with the Better Business Bureau and attaching all the pictures.
Kelly G.
Scout
June 18, 2024
Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
Trashy and crowded
It was overly crowded, the lake was murky (worse than normal), and we weren't even allowed to bring our floating island on to the lake.
ABBI S.
Scout
June 17, 2024
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake
Primitive camping right by a busy highway
This was my husbands, and my 2 small babies first camping trip. We chose Jellystone in Fremont Indiana because it was only an hour from our home and has so many fun family activities. We wanted to do something close by in case things went awry, I am Glad we did that. We got to the site and we had booked primitive camping. From the map online you could not tell it was directly next to an extremely busy highway. So instead of the sound of nature we heard blaring 16 wheelers for hours on end. Our campsite was not labeled with our site number so we had to guess what site we had booked. The camp sites were on a slight hill and my youngest isn’t even 2 and is accident prone. This was dangerous given the fact that the picnic table was sloped right by the fire ring for a dangerous combination. Our chairs were unsteady and sitting around the fire in general was dangerous. We couldn’t relax at all and had to continuously be cautious of my 1.5 year old falling into the fire! It is currently June and the temps are high which we expected but the heat combined with the highway traffic at night led to no sleep for our children or us. Not to mention at 10:30 construction vehicles pulled up right next to the campsite and began their work. By 11:15 we had had enough. We decided to go home. It was the worst 7 hour experience of our vacation history. We called the next day and relayed our experience to the registration cabin and paid to have a cabin. The point of this thread is, I personally Feel like I paid to be homeless next to a highway for the week. I am Angry, camping should not be next to a busy highway. The entrance needs to be relocated to where the primitive camping is and the camping needs to be in a more secluded area. People are paying for this experience and it was the most chaotic/ anxious trip I have ever been on. We have not experiencedthe fun activities yet because we have had such a horrible time at the actual campsite we drove home and are coming back the next day so we could actually get some sleep. When we paid for a cabin and relaid our experience the woman working registration did not even apologize for our bad experience. We were not met with any form of compassion or understanding for the chaos we paid for. If you are going to keep booking primitive camping next to a busy highway, inform your guests! Be aware of construction schedules! Know what is happening in your area for the sake of your guests and their quality experience! Do not let your park become a thing of the past because you are neglecting to remember our experiences keep us coming back!
Holdun R.
Guide
June 17, 2024
Camp Atterbury Campground
Great 1st experience
This was my first time at a campsite, so I don't have other sites to compare to. Overall, my experience was great. Clean area with lots of amenities. They stack free firewood at your campsite to burn. I'm military, so the gunfire, canon fire, and helicopters didn't bother me at all. Those things don't happen all the time though.
Bruce&Linda A.
Guide
June 14, 2024
Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground
Hoosier "Daddy" ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
We timed this 0ne Right! Found Hoosier National Park website wasn't available, we arrived seeking 1st come 1st served... and got it! 👍 Thank You, LORD!
rickie F.
Traveler
June 10, 2024
Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
Beautiful as it should be.
We stayed pretty much on our site. Generally, we aim to do a bit of exploring, but we used their camping as a rendezvous. I was slightly disappointed by the site selections being mostly on a slant, but we did find one on the overfill site that suited our needs and we ended up loving it. I do plan on returning specifically to update a better review on the available views.

Guide to Indiana

Camping in Indiana offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Hoosier State.

What to do

Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Turkey Run State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, “Be prepared with hiking boots and sticks” for the moderate trails that can be challenging.
Fishing and Boating: At Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper noted, “The water was breathtaking and very calm even with all of the boat activity.”
Exploring Nature: Shades State Park Campground offers beautiful scenery. One visitor said, “The park is quite, shaded, rugged at times and the canyon/creek can be breathtaking.”

What campers like

Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Cecil M Harden Lake stated, “Bathhouse clean, plenty of showers, flush toilets.”
Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds have roomy sites. One camper at Turkey Run State Park mentioned, “Large campground with spacious sites.”
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Prophetstown State Park are great for families. A reviewer said, “This park has it all. Multiple playgrounds for the kids, great hiking/biking trails.”

What you should know

Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. One visitor at Paynetown Campground noted, “This is known in Indiana as a party park. It's VERY noisy & busy on a summer weekend.”
Limited Privacy: Some sites are close together, which can affect privacy. A camper at Turkey Run State Park mentioned, “Many sites are in an open, level area without a lot of trees or bushes between them.”
Variable Amenities: Not all campgrounds have the same facilities. A review for Shades State Park pointed out, “The vault toilets were dirty, needed to be emptied.”

Tips for camping with families

Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Prophetstown State Park has multiple playgrounds and a water park, making it ideal for kids.
Plan for Crowds: If you want a quieter experience, try to camp during the week. A reviewer at Paynetown Campground suggested, “If you like a quieter experience come Monday through Wed.”
Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for added fun. One family at Summit Lake State Park enjoyed, “We took Kayaks and had a good time.”

Tips from RVers

Check Site Levels: Some sites may have slopes that make parking tricky. A camper at Buffalo Ridge Campground warned, “Pay attention to your campsite for slope and camper accessibility.”
Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Prophetstown State Park said, “Book early, as these sites go fast!”
Be Mindful of Rules: Some campgrounds have strict rules about vehicle limits. A camper at Summit Lake State Park expressed frustration with the host's reminders about car limits.

Camping in Indiana has its quirks, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time exploring the outdoors!

Top Glamping in Indiana

Best Glamping Sites in Indiana (105)

1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

2. Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park

3. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

4. Potato Creek State Park Campground

5. Pokagon State Park Campground

6. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

7. Harmonie State Park Campground

8. Charlestown State Park Campground

9. Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area

10. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph