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The best camping near Owen-Putnam State Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Owen-Putnam adventure.

Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.  

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Community favorites near Owen-Putnam State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Owen-Putnam State Forest

Booked 1 time

Eclipse 🌚living Legacy Paylake

75 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Spencer, IN
well-stocked fishing lake/bait house, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities. The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge and enjoy the stocked 3.5 acre lake. A great day of camping fishing and breath takeing views to see a once in a life time experience
from 
$60
 / night
Booked 14 times

Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake

70 sites ¡ RVs, Tents39 acres ¡ Spencer, IN
Experience the beauty of nature at this charming location, brimming with life. Nestled beside a renowned, well-stocked fishing lake, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, the property offers easy turnarounds for RVs and Semis. Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities. Small tents are welcome with the purchase of a 12-hour fishing pass, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Additionally, The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge in a memorable stay surrounded by nature and convenient amenities.
from 
$60
 / night
Booked 7 times

Peak Animal Sanctuary

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents65 acres ¡ Freedom, IN
Peak animal sanctuary is a non-profit vegan sanctuary that is home to 44 farm animals that have been rescued from neglect situations and/or factory farms. We are located on 65 beautiful acres in Owen County Indiana. We will be in full totality of the 2024 solar eclipse on 4/8/24. We do require that anyone who chooses to camp on our property has to adhere to our "vegan only" policy while onsite and not bring or consume any animal/fish or dairy products while on the property. For the safety of our animals and guests, visitors are not permitted to enter any of the animal enclosure areas without a staff member. We do offer a short tour and introduction for a small donation. We also have 2 Airbnb rooms that are listed on our website. If you'd like to know more about our property, please check out our website: https://www.peakanimalsanctuary.org or visit our Facebook page
from 
$30
 / night
Booked 9 times

Celtic Glen Farm Stay

9 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres ¡ Spencer, IN
Celtic Glen is a working, family farm of heritage breed livestock, nestled in an old limestone quarry on the banks of the White River, on one side, and Fall Creek, on another. Learn about regenerative farming with rare breeds on a farm tour, or mining and wetlands restoration on an ecological history tour. Pet and feed the livestock. Fish and bird-watch. Take a yoga class (at times with goats or bunnies) in the center of the stone henge. Have coffee with goats. Eat farm craft meats, eggs, prepared soups, casseroles, and baked goods, or hop into town for a bite. We are across the river from McCormick's Creek State Park (Indiana's first state park with miles of trails, a swimming pool, horseback riding, and lodge) and just two miles north of Spencer, a small town with an excellent brew pub, winery, cafe, and more. Just 12 miles north of the farm is Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. We are only 20 minutes from Bloomington and Indiana University; 45 minutes from Indianapolis Int'l Airport. This is a working farm with lots of livestock, electric fences, and working dogs, so please leave the farm animals alone unless someone from the farm is available and present. Dogs must be on a leash in the camping area. Given the above features of a working livestock farm, the quarry ruins, the operative railroad tracks, and the river (not suitable for swimming), children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times.
from 
$35
 / night
Booked 13 times

The Timbercrest Ranch

14 sites ¡ RVs, Tents84 acres ¡ Worthington, IN
The land consists of: 84 acres of forest, pastures, four ponds, orchards, hoop house, pavilion area with grill, original tobacco barn, market gardens, chickens, guineas, turkeys, pheasants, quail, bees, kune kune pigs and wagyu cattle, stocked pond on absolutely gorgeous rolling hills. The land will take your breathe away. Learn more about this land: Can host a several camp sites, and up to three RV hookups with hydrants for potable water. Several trails with lots of opportunities to see nature, particularly wild turkey's and deer and the local bison farm.
from 
$55
 / night
100%
(1)

Howling Moon Homestead

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Spencer, IN
We are a small farm using regenerative practices and permaculture ethics. We are still early on in our journey of working with the land. Our land has been part of our family's homestead for close to one hundred years. Enjoy walks around the farm where you'll find many places to relax, meditate or simply enjoy the views. Guided tours can be arranged and you can explore the gardens, orchard, different methods of raising chickens. We're always building and trying new things to optimize our property and care for the land. There are many great restaurants only 20 minutes away including Mexican, Thai, a brew pub, a winery and a great coffee shop.
from 
$40
 / night
99%
(125)

Happy Campers Campground

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ Brazil, IN
We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have 5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an 1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available. Seasonal shower house and porta potty. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! We also have bathrooms and a new shower house now! Open now.
from 
$40
 / night
92%
(6)

Laurita's Casa Vieja

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Bloomington, IN
The farm is located 15 minutes west of Indiana Universities Memorial Stadium. The property is nice and private. The farm adjoins the 75 acre Stranger Hills Organic farm, the oldest organic farm in Indiana. Our 1899 Farmhouse is the only residence on the entire farm. There is a 3000 acre farm to our south. The area is quiet and very private. The campsites are in a grassy walnut grove by a small creek that runs along the eastern border of the property. We have a white deer creek cabin tent on a platform there and 3 or 4 nice level campsites to the north. There is a shaded RV site at the top of a small hill with 30 amp service. We can accomadate a large RV on packed gravel with 50 amp serice. the farm is located 15 minutes east of McCormicks Creek State Park. There is a porti -potty and a bag shower in a small building adjacent to the campsites. There is a YMCA about five minutes East of the property.
from 
$35
 / night
Booked 1 time

Tent camping in forests.

4 sites ¡ Tents30 acres ¡ Cloverdale, IN
Learn more about this land:Scenic views and hiking. Multiple camp sites available. Farm tour will be provided to establish boundaries. Farm animals are on site to interact with.
from 
$30
 / night

Dirt Weapon Ranch

7 sites ¡ RVs, Tents90 acres ¡ Gosport, IN
Come and enjoy our private 90-acre retreat, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled in an arch of the White River, this secluded sanctuary boasts two private lakes, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and relaxation. Conveniently located within a short driving distance to Indy, Bloomington, and Southern Indiana, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while still having access to nearby urban amenities. We offer six powered campsites and numerous options for primitive camping lakeside or riverside. Please note that there are no direct water hookups, so be sure to bring your own water for your stay.
from 
$25
 / night
Booked 2 times

Lake Lemon Camping

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents17 acres ¡ Nashville, IN
Cleared area in 17 acres of woods.just up the road from Lake Lemon outside Bloomington and Nashville Indiana both 11 miles away. There is a composting toilet in our shelter house with seating and eating area. Bring your own drinking water. Public beach is less than 2 mile drive. Best fishing area. Is 1 mile. This is a quiet sanctuary, previously a children’s day camp behind our house. There is a 2 night minimum and only 4 people per sight. Our sights are small and limited since our land is very hilly and only has a composting toilet.
from 
$65
 / night
100%
(2)

75 Acre Woods

5 sites ¡ Tents75 acres ¡ Worthington, IN
This 75-acre property is located in the heart of Indiana's rolling hills. It is surrounded by woods and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The property is perfect for those who love hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The quiet and calming property is a short drive to the many restaurants of Bloomington, Indiana and many state parks for additional adventuring!
from 
$48
 / night

The best camping near Owen-Putnam State Forest guide

Overview

About

Stop your puttering around and get on down to Owen-Putnam State Forest before the season passes you by. Get up close and personal with the beauty of the hardwood forests and hills of south central Indiana. You can choose between three different camping areas within the forest, so you can fish for that perfect spot. Trails are waiting to be explored either on foot, mountain bike, or horse. Don’t forget to scope out the 50-foot sandstone bluff from the trails. Why not bring along the fishing rod and try to snag some dinner in one of the ponds while you’re at it? Sounds like a pretty sweet way to spend a few days off.

Notable campgrounds

  • Fish Creek Campground: Offers 14 sites with available water, nestled in the heart of the forest.
  • Horse Campground: Features 15 sites with a water trough, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts.
  • Rattlesnake Campground: Provides 9 primitive sites for a secluded escape into nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Arrive early, as campsites are first-come, first-serve, and be ready to self-register at the campground booths.
  • Check the fees page beforehand to ensure you have the correct payment for camping fees.
  • During peak seasons, consider weekdays for better chances at securing a spot.
  • Explore nearby camping options in case the campgrounds are full upon your arrival.

When to go

The best time to visit Owen-Putnam State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter can be beautiful but challenging due to snow and cold conditions.

Know before you go

  • Wear bright clothing during hunting seasons for safety while hiking or horseback riding.
  • Check for any advisories or closures before your visit to ensure all areas are accessible.
  • Remember, Rattlesnake and Horse campgrounds do not have drinking water; bring your own or collect it from the Forest Office.
  • Be mindful of private property boundaries to avoid trespassing while enjoying the forest.
  • For mountain biking, ensure you have the required off-road cycling permit and stick to marked trails.

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