Best Tent Camping in Indiana

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent in Indiana, look no further. Find the best information on tent campgrounds in Indiana, including sites, reviews, and tips. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites in Indiana (38)

    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynetown Campground

    1. Paynetown Campground

    29 Reviews
    99 Photos
    187 Saves
    Clear Creek, Indiana

    This recreation area is part of Monroe Lake

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Market
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area

    2. Deam Lake State Rec Area

    18 Reviews
    29 Photos
    69 Saves
    Borden, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    3. Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    30 Photos
    334 Saves
    Freetown, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    4. Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    9 Reviews
    33 Photos
    126 Saves
    Heltonville, Indiana

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest

    5. Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest

    8 Reviews
    35 Photos
    79 Saves
    Martinsville, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $25 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waveland Park

    6. Lake Waveland Park

    8 Reviews
    7 Photos
    42 Saves
    Waveland, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Hollow Homestead

    7. Happy Hollow Homestead

    5 Reviews
    49 Photos
    180 Saves
    English, Indiana

    Listed on Rachael Ray Magazine's "8 of America's Coolest Campgrounds" This listing is for tent, car, or small RV camping- We currently do not rent the tree house since it is my home. I may rent it out in the future and I will have a cabin available later in the year We are on a solar powered, off the grid 60 acre homestead that has 54 acres of wooded land and 6 acres of groomed land. Come explore our land and relax in the"Tree Web", see the 2 story tree house that I live in, have fun on the tire swing, or just sit and enjoy all that nature has to offer. You can explore our interesting topography that has close to 100 foot of elevation changes, our(mostly) dry creek system that starts with 2 springs that drain into 3 sinkholes or walk 3 miles of trails (if you follow each trail from end to end). Camping can be in the Black Walnut Grove, in an open field or a shady grove. We like to interact with people or you can keep to yourself and have a quiet getaway in the woods. We love groups- Host your event here or have a group gathering with all your friends and family. We have spaces large enough to host hundreds of people. \- 3.5 miles to Marengo Cave \- 7 miles to the Blue River(canoes, rafting and swimming) \- 30 minutes to Pataka Lake- 37 miles west of Louisville \- 13 miles north of Interstate 64

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    • Picnic Table

    $40 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Ransburg Scout Reservation

    8. Ransburg Scout Reservation

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    8 Saves
    Harrodsburg, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    9. Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    8 Photos
    67 Saves
    Birdseye, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping

    10. Old Mill Tent And Hammock Camping

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    21 Saves
    English, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Indiana

2159 Reviews of 38 Indiana Campgrounds


  • Kaley A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Jan. 31, 2025

    Potato Creek State Park Campground

    Nice Park

    I’ve not camped at this park, only hiked it. I’ve probably hiked it two dozen times at least and it’s got nice trails for the part of Indiana that it’s in. Most of them are relatively flat with some trails,like number two, having some hills and stairs in them. My favorite trail is probably number one, which is a 1 mile weird loop that has some neat scenery, especially in the summertime.

  • Sara O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park
    Jan. 16, 2025

    Turkey Run State Park Campground — Turkey Run State Park

    Gobble this place up!

    When I was younger this is the place the family would go. For fishing, hiking, and just being in nature . Has some really great trails, and if you stay at the campground itself , it has activities for the youguns ‘. When ever I am in the neighborhood, I will stop by for a weekend in a tent. Near a roaring campfire and widdle some thing out of a piece of wood. It’s peaceful, yet you’re not alone. It isn’t entirely off grid. I prefer BLM myself. But if you’re going to hit a “camp ground” this is one of my favorites.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shipshewana North Park Campground
    Jan. 14, 2025

    Shipshewana North Park Campground

    Nice campground in a convenient location

    We were passing through and decided to stop for frozen custard at the stand right next to the campground. The first review for this place did not seem very inviting but a more recent one was a little more positive. After checking it out, I thought it could use a little reinforcement of the positives! I’m not sure if there have been new owners since the first review but I received a very friendly greeting, and the office is open from 9 am– 8 pm and clearly marked as the place to check-in. 

    There are many options here: back-in or pull-thru tent sites, w/e sites, full hook-up sites, camper cabins, and fully equipped cabins. The campsites range from $32-$46 per night and the cabins range from $69-$144 per night. Sites 47-52 are close to the road so you will hear road noise, but Sites 11-35 are farther from the road and are more shaded. The layout is RV park style but there is reasonable separation between the sites. 

    The restrooms have a code for entry, and I did not see the inside of these.

    Amenities include:

    - a community fire pit

    -  game room with television

    - guest laundry 

    - dump station

    - gift shop

    - pet friendly options

     -WiFi

    - There is, of course, an ice cream/frozen custard stand that I dare you to resist. 

    While we would not consider it a destination, we would definitely consider camping here en route – the price is reasonable, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest
    Jan. 5, 2025

    Oak Ridge Morgan-Monroe State Forest

    Small sites, secluded campground

    This campground is decent if you get one of the few good spots. Many sites are small and can only accommodate a tent. Has water and vault toilets. This campground typically remains available as an overflow camping area but is still a good spot.

  • Clay T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite
    Dec. 26, 2024

    Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite

    "Free, never heard of that app."

    Although it states in the app free dispersed camping. Doesn't always mean just that. The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks. (Tent sites) For more, you can get electric hookup sites galore that all include a fire ring picnic table and a pretty leveled out spot.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Woods Campground
    Dec. 25, 2024

    Woods Campground

    Woods Campgrounds

    It’s cheap for a reason, if you plan on living here always record your conversations and keep a paper trail for paying your bills. A lot of people drink heavy here and can be very noisy and rowdy. You will get woken up by random gun shots early in the morning. Check your hookups before you pay!

  • licia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Buzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Buried Deep in the Forest- Nice View

    I’m grateful I got a spot, since there are only 5. I’m also grateful that’s it’s open (since past Nov 15th)- and that they are drive-in sites. It’s buried deep in the forest. Clean bathroom aka pit toilet, was literally just washed and stocked before I arrived. One bar with AT&T, was able to get online when the neighbors left (but not while they were home)- so a booster or better would be advised. Mine is unboosted. The neighbor running the loud generator (the noise in the video) did come over and ask if it was disturbing me, lol- which was nice. Of course I said no :) since I brought a fan that was able to drown out most of the noise. Overall, if I were staying for the 14 allowed days- I’d say it’s worth the trip in. The road in IS paved and well-maintained up until a tiny portion at the end. Grateful for a spot, though.

  • Amanda D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Taylor Ridge Campground — Brown County State Park

    Brown County State Park stay

    The site we stayed in was lovely. It was backed up to the edge of the woods which made for a lovely view. Driving through the campground it looks like there are some sites pretty close together but ours wasn’t too bad. I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you’re booking as some were pretty small. Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well. This site was a slight slope and overall I would book it again. We have a full size truck with a small travel trailer that fit perfectly. Camp store was stocked nicely. Staff was friendly. The campground itself was very quiet and you could enjoy being out in nature. The site was walking distance from showers/bathroom. The park as a whole is beautiful and there’s a trailhead that’s walking distance from the campsite that leads down a beautiful trail to a lake.

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    small campground away from it all

    Little four site camping area on the shore of Rivir Lake (not a typo). It can be accessed either by parking and walking in on the wide, well tended trail (#4 on maps) or by boating. The nearest boat launch is Miller lake, a mile west. Sites 3 & 4 are right on the lake with the best access, Sites 1& 2 are across the trail which is along a raised berm with a bridge over the passage to Mud Lake. I'd give this a higher review, but most people wouldn't appreciate the primitiveness of the sites. It's distance from most amenities could be a turn off, but also could be perfect for others

  • Kelsey R.
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground
    Nov. 3, 2024

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Shaded and secluded

    Obannon Overall, this is a nice state park to camp in. Staff was very friendly. They have ice and wood. My kids enjoyed the nature center, pioneer village, and one of the easy trails.

    We stayed in 220. It was nice to be right by the playground and bathrooms (which is what we wanted). Some spots near the back would be nice and secluded like the 180s and 190s and they’re still not too far from the bathrooms and playground. The better playground is in loop A.

    I will say, I didn’t see any staff members cleaning up trash, getting campsites ready, or anything the 2 days we were there. Even though we went in November, it was a nice weekend and wasn’t dead, so I was surprised I didn’t see anyone cleaning. Wasn’t the cleanest state campground we’ve been at in Indiana. Certainly wasn’t awful though either.

    My biggest gripe was they were hosting a huge cycling group. Like the whole loop A. We were all the way back in C. They held a concert that went on from like 8-11 pm. Being in a pop up, it was so loud and never ending. Made it difficult for my kids to sleep. If they’re going to hold (or allow) events like these, it should be posted on their website. Even with our sound machine, we still couldn’t block it out. I realize quiet hours aren’t until 11, but to me there’s a difference.

    There is also hardly any signage and spots are difficult to find. No arrows about which way to go, signs saying which loop you’re in, and spots are only marked on the electrical boxes.

    Overall, may stay again and try out the pool since we’re not too far from home, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to stay here.

  • Erin A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River Run
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Tippecanoe River Run

    DO NOT CAMP HERE

    Horrible owners, non functioning electric and sewer. Please see my detailed Google review for more information.

  • Betsy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Blackwell Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Large, open, and very clean

    Open areas with pit toilets and water available. Shade and sunny locations. Pick a spot and set up with hammock-large rvs spots. No fee, no reservations, no problems. Officers from federal, state, and local patrol. Cell service by various providers is 1-2 bars. Highly recommend.

  • Kelsey R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deam Lake State Rec Area
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Deam Lake State Rec Area

    Nice

    This is a nice campground. We went on a weekend in July and it was as pretty busy, as to be expected. Because of that, we didn’t visit the beach area, however my in laws did and they said it was nice. They swam and kayaked. Staff is friendly. Facilities are pretty clean, nothing to write home about. Didn’t use the showers. My sons enjoyed the nature center. This is the closest state park to us, so I’m sure we will be back. Be sure to stop in town for ice cream.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpas Farm Camp Ground
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Grandpas Farm Camp Ground

    Family atmosphere campground

    I love this campground! All RV wrapped and under the tall tree; behind the campground have a running creek, cross the creek is farmland, sometime saw group of goats eating grass on the field. What a charming place to stop for a night. They have a large kids playground and pool, very clean bathroom and the host friendly like part of families.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Lake RV Resort
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    Quiet, nice place.

    Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom.

  • Christie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Johnny Appleseed Campground

    Suppppppper Bathroom s

    They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds.You can even look out at the skylight at the sky.Why you take a shower and while you go to the bathroom is well.It's a beautiful bathroom very well kept.Thank you so much to the campgrounds....

  • Noah Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles C. Deam Wilderness
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Charles C. Deam Wilderness

    Great for casual/experienced camping and hiking

    A staple of our state here in Indiana. Unfortunately due to some storm damage, trails were rerouted or straight up inaccessible.

    Great places to find and set up camp. We even discovered a few extra hidden sites just by being forced off trails due to the damage.

    Every dispersed camper should add the hikes to the lake to their checklist.

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    Idyllic small location, deserves higher review

    Little four site camping area on the shore of Rivir Lake (not a typo). It can be accessed either by parking and walking in on the wide, well tended trail (#4 on maps) of by boating. The nearest boat launch is Miller lake, a mile west. Sites 3 & 4 are right on the lake with the best access, Sites 1 & 2 are across the trail which is along a raised berm with a bridge over the passage to Mud Lake.
    I'd give this a higher review, but most people wouldn't appreciate the primitiveness of the sites. It's distance from most amenities could be a turn off, but also could be perfect for others

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Oct. 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.

  • Kris
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Blue Lake Campground

    Great place

    Blue Lake Resort is a hidden gem for campers! The serene atmosphere and beautiful lake views make it a perfect getaway. The amenities are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. I particularly enjoyed the fishing opportunities and the peaceful nature trails nearby. I actually recently wrote an essay about the natural beauty of Indiana for my geography class, and it was really great to have the helpfull resource https://stateofwriting.com/uk/geography-writing-service. They have some great guides and tips for geography essays. 

    Definitely a place I’d recommend for families and nature lovers!

  • Jeremy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache Trails County Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Ouabache Trails County Park

    2 night stay

    We stayed here 2 nights. We came to see the George Rogers Clark National Monument. Campground was nice. Several full time campers living here. Staff was friendly. Was a little noisy on the weekend. Shower house was very clean.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhart County Fairgrounds
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Elkhart County Fairgrounds

    Worked for What We Needed

    You use Gate 2 to get to the registration office. Check-in was quick and we proceeded to back-in site 444 with FHUs. Our back-in should have been smooth but we were out of practice. The utilities are at the far end of the sites. In most areas, the sites back up to each other and share a utility post(separate outlets for each site) and share the water spigot. As we had come out of the Brinkley Service Center, we did not need to dump. If we had hooked up sewer, we would have needed about 25’ of hose to reach a hole in the ground(no screw in adapter). Water pressure was okay depending on if both rigs are pulling water. They have wifi(4H Public) that was pretty good but there were not many rigs in the fairgrounds. We have 4 bars on Verizon. If you are allergic to train noise, this is not your place as trains run all day, all night, at regular intervals, and the tracks are adjacent to the FHU campground(CG) areas. Sites are quite close together but far enough that you can get your awnings out. As this CG was near the Brinkley Service Center and they had to come back out to us to finish repairs, this place worked for us. We would stay here again if we come back for service center work. They are very flexible with cancellations/reservation changes as they realize the majority of people are here for RV service.


Guide to Indiana

Tent camping in Indiana offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to bustling campgrounds filled with activities. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's a perfect site waiting for you.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Lake Monroe

  • [Paynetown Campground][https://thedyrt.com/camping/indiana/indiana-paynetown-state-recreation-area] is a popular choice, known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to boating and fishing activities.
  • The campground features basic amenities like pit toilets and a large dump station, making it convenient for campers.
  • Expect a lively environment, especially on summer weekends, so plan your visit during the week for a quieter experience.

Local Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • At Deam Lake State Rec Area, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing, with friendly staff and clean facilities enhancing your visit.
  • The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers numerous hiking trails, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Indiana while camping.
  • Lake Waveland Park provides ample opportunities for fishing and boating, along with spacious grounds for picnicking and relaxation.

Some Prices for Tent Camping Range from $0 to $30

  • Berry Ridge Road - Dispersed Camping is a free option for those looking to enjoy nature without the frills, perfect for a more rugged experience.
  • Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed offers a unique camping experience with no amenities, ideal for those who want to truly rough it in the great outdoors.
  • Gobbler's Run Campground in Lincoln State Park provides a primitive camping experience with access to hiking trails and a lake, typically priced around $20 per night.