Camping in Lake Santee, IN, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Indiana
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Lake Santee

98% (891 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake Santee

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Hocking Hills State Park

559 campgrounds

Summers in the south get stupid hot. So I jumped in the lake. And I don't regret it.

Lancaster

117 campgrounds

Brown County State Park

427 campgrounds

Turkey Run State Park

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(4)

Backroads Vineyard

2 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Laurel, IN

19 acre farm with Winery. We have 2 ponds and small trails in woods. Few fire rings and winery pavillion. Outdoor bathroom with flushing toliet and running water. Picnic table area. Easy access for RVs. 8 min from Metamora 10 min from Haspin acres. 30 min from Brookville lake. Whitewater trails

100%

(2)

The Rusted Plow

23 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Carthage, IN

We live off of a gorgeous winding tree lined road between Knightstown and Carthage. Our property has several options for you to tent camp or we can accommodate large RVs. Electric will be supplied via extension cord and we can provide well water to fill your tank or a hose from our pump for you to use as needed. We own 10 acres with a pasture of wild flowers, chickens, and several varieties of trees. The surrounding 100 acres along Big Blue River is owned by our family and available for your enjoyment. Kayaking, hiking, bird watching, swimming and just relaxing! We hope we can be a quiet spot for your travels thru the midwest. We are 30 minutes from Indianapolis, 20 minutes to a gorgeous lake and mountain bike trail and Knightstown has several quaint shops and antique venues for you to enjoy! Please keep all animals on a leash or contained. We do live in the midst of cornfields and forest where racoons, opossums and our pets live. We have outdoor kitties Reginald is a big gray boy who will try to climb your leg if you stand still long enough! lol Abigail and Toby are our indoor dogs, but they do roam outside during the day. We also have 2 new to our farm rescued Great Pyreneese that are adjusting! They are in an enclosed pen behind our barn and should'nt cause you any trouble. You may hear them barking off and on as they adjust to their new surroundings. If you need anything please let us know :D We are always ready to make your stay as comfortable as we can!

100%

(348)

Marick Acres

6 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Carthage, IN

What once started in the mid 1800's as a 240 acre sugar maple tree farm is now our little 18 acres of heaven on earth. Our house was built in 1875 and for those who love old houses, tours can be arranged! The land is rolling and dotted with flower beds, animals, and beautiful green grass that is mowed weekly. We are bordered by fields and a cemetery that dates back to the 1800's. We are neighbors with those who grow crops, raise beef cows, bison, and alpacas. 2 blocks from our driveway is Blue River which offers fishing, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing (if you have your own equipment). Town is 2 minutes away, but there is not much there other than a convenience gas station, thrift shop, a nic-nac store that still sells penny candy, and an engine repair shop. "Civilization" is a 30 minute drive to find movies, grocery, shopping, and a public pool. The sky appears to be scattered with diamonds on a clear night and during season the fireflies light the trees up like twinkling lights at Christmas! Learn more about this land: We have an 18 acre mini farm, close to a small town and near a river. We have two small ponds that can be fished in during the spring, wildlife, and birds to watch. There are 6 very nice areas for camp sites that allow for privacy and relaxation. Each site has a fire pit and table. We also have just put in a new out house and have a port-a-potty for our campers to use. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 70 and only 30 minutes from Indianapolis. If you are just passing through or arriving late, let us know and we will be happy to have a campfire started for you. Accommodations can be made for group camping! We also have a gazebo that can be used for weddings and vow renewals. Officiant on site.

Pyramid Point

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Connersville, IN

Nestled at the foot of Mounds State Park and Brookville Lake.Learn more about this land:Pull through Campsite with Full hook up.Located 1000ft from Brookville Lake Public Property with Woods, Trails, Hiking, State Hunting and 1500ft from the Egypt Hollow Boat Ramp on Brookville Lake with Boat ramp, swimming, fishing and Water Sports.Site is newly developed with Fresh Gravel and 16x24 Conctete Patio.The Brookville Lake, Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA16,445 acres - 5,260-acre lakeThe lake property has more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing. Two beaches.

100%

(3)

Sugar Maple Grove

10 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Brownsville, IN

Nice secluded camp sites with lots of space and privacy. fire wood available. Picnic tables at rv sites 1 & 2 Close to Brookville Lake. Tent camping and two rv sites that can fit any size rv, just keep in mind this is dirt road to dispersed site's so please reservesite in summer months or walk to site in winter months. Very scenic private sites surrounded by nature with fire pits. Beautiful for any weekend get away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres and about 20 acres of flat grass Fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced In so please close gates back when you open them. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have been working hard on our property to turn it into a campground for a few years and this is our first year doing hip camp. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway. help us make our campground better.

12 top campgrounds near Lake Santee

100%

(4)

Backroads Vineyard

2 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Laurel, IN

19 acre farm with Winery. We have 2 ponds and small trails in woods. Few fire rings and winery pavillion. Outdoor bathroom with flushing toliet and running water. Picnic table area. Easy access for RVs. 8 min from Metamora 10 min from Haspin acres. 30 min from Brookville lake. Whitewater trails

Marick Acres

6 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Carthage, IN

What once started in the mid 1800's as a 240 acre sugar maple tree farm is now our little 18 acres of heaven on earth. Our house was built in 1875 and for those who love old houses, tours can be arranged! The land is rolling and dotted with flower beds, animals, and beautiful green grass that is mowed weekly. We are bordered by fields and a cemetery that dates back to the 1800's. We are neighbors with those who grow crops, raise beef cows, bison, and alpacas. 2 blocks from our driveway is Blue River which offers fishing, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing (if you have your own equipment). Town is 2 minutes away, but there is not much there other than a convenience gas station, thrift shop, a nic-nac store that still sells penny candy, and an engine repair shop. "Civilization" is a 30 minute drive to find movies, grocery, shopping, and a public pool. The sky appears to be scattered with diamonds on a clear night and during season the fireflies light the trees up like twinkling lights at Christmas! Learn more about this land: We have an 18 acre mini farm, close to a small town and near a river. We have two small ponds that can be fished in during the spring, wildlife, and birds to watch. There are 6 very nice areas for camp sites that allow for privacy and relaxation. Each site has a fire pit and table. We also have just put in a new out house and have a port-a-potty for our campers to use. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 70 and only 30 minutes from Indianapolis. If you are just passing through or arriving late, let us know and we will be happy to have a campfire started for you. Accommodations can be made for group camping! We also have a gazebo that can be used for weddings and vow renewals. Officiant on site.

Booked 2 times

Riverfront Camping, White Rock Park

2 sites · Tents45 acres · St Paul, IN

The beautiful Flat Rock River bends around our property and provides an amazing riverfront camping experience. There are two lakes on the property that can be enjoyed by kayaking or fishing. All of our sites are primitive with no water or electric hookups. Campers and RVs are permitted, but they must be self contained.

Sugar Maple Grove

10 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Brownsville, IN

Nice secluded camp sites with lots of space and privacy. fire wood available. Picnic tables at rv sites 1 & 2 Close to Brookville Lake. Tent camping and two rv sites that can fit any size rv, just keep in mind this is dirt road to dispersed site's so please reservesite in summer months or walk to site in winter months. Very scenic private sites surrounded by nature with fire pits. Beautiful for any weekend get away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres and about 20 acres of flat grass Fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced In so please close gates back when you open them. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have been working hard on our property to turn it into a campground for a few years and this is our first year doing hip camp. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway. help us make our campground better.

Pyramid Point

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Connersville, IN

Nestled at the foot of Mounds State Park and Brookville Lake.Learn more about this land:Pull through Campsite with Full hook up.Located 1000ft from Brookville Lake Public Property with Woods, Trails, Hiking, State Hunting and 1500ft from the Egypt Hollow Boat Ramp on Brookville Lake with Boat ramp, swimming, fishing and Water Sports.Site is newly developed with Fresh Gravel and 16x24 Conctete Patio.The Brookville Lake, Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA16,445 acres - 5,260-acre lakeThe lake property has more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing. Two beaches.

The Rusted Plow

23 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Carthage, IN

We live off of a gorgeous winding tree lined road between Knightstown and Carthage. Our property has several options for you to tent camp or we can accommodate large RVs. Electric will be supplied via extension cord and we can provide well water to fill your tank or a hose from our pump for you to use as needed. We own 10 acres with a pasture of wild flowers, chickens, and several varieties of trees. The surrounding 100 acres along Big Blue River is owned by our family and available for your enjoyment. Kayaking, hiking, bird watching, swimming and just relaxing! We hope we can be a quiet spot for your travels thru the midwest. We are 30 minutes from Indianapolis, 20 minutes to a gorgeous lake and mountain bike trail and Knightstown has several quaint shops and antique venues for you to enjoy! Please keep all animals on a leash or contained. We do live in the midst of cornfields and forest where racoons, opossums and our pets live. We have outdoor kitties Reginald is a big gray boy who will try to climb your leg if you stand still long enough! lol Abigail and Toby are our indoor dogs, but they do roam outside during the day. We also have 2 new to our farm rescued Great Pyreneese that are adjusting! They are in an enclosed pen behind our barn and should'nt cause you any trouble. You may hear them barking off and on as they adjust to their new surroundings. If you need anything please let us know :D We are always ready to make your stay as comfortable as we can!

100%

(41)

A Notch Above-RV Riverside Campsite

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Patriot, IN

If you enjoy camping right on the banks of a major river (Ohio), this may be the place for you! Relax on the riverside with a campfire and one of the best river views on the entire Ohio River! You can even throw in a fishing line if you want!

100%

(10)

Cobbler's Knob

12 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Milton, IN

Looking for a quiet weekend in the country? Passing through central Indiana on your way to another destination? Cobbler's Knob might be the perfect place for you! We offer a peaceful setting on 25 acres with spaces for anyone looking for more privacy to those who'd like to be a little closer to the action of our working farm. We have large campsites that allow room for RVs, even on the primitive tent sites. Three of our sites offer water and electric hookup. We supply a fire pit for each site and can have firewood stacked and waiting for you upon request. We also have a bathroom with a toilet and sink near all of the campsites. You are welcome to stay at the farm for the entire stay or if you want to explore the area, we have many nearby attractions including many restaurants, antique stores, bars and wineries, coffee shops, etc. Indiana's oldest family-owned apple orchard, Dougherty Orchards is a must-see and located just a few miles down the road. If you are looking for a fun, safe, family atmosphere, Cobbler's Knob might just be the place for you!

100%

(2)

Blue River Sports

2 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Carthage, IN

Our 22 acre property is perfect for people who want to get away. There is only one house visible from ours. Its very quiet and secluded. We offer 50amp service and water hookup. Also dump station if needed, but you will need a portable tank or long hose. There is WIFI also available for RV Campers (we are in the country so it is what it is). There are 2 sites. One in the woods for tent campers and one up above for RV campers. We do not have showers or bathrooms for campers. The Big Blue River boarders the whole property. We have kayaks we could rent out if someone needed them or bring your own. We have a large fire ring up above and a more compact one for river front, with the first wheel barrow load of wood free. We are close to I70 and have a nice little convince store and Dollar Store about a mile away that will have all the necessities. Plenty of room to park at both sites.

100%

(248)

Away at Green Hill

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Union, KY

Hipcamp Best Camping Runner Up 2023 and 2024! Spring is here and Summer isn't far behind. Book now and enjoy the privacy and the convience of Away at Green Hill. Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Indiana and the Ohio River, this 26 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there is wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single track hiking trail, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Onsite firewood for purchase makes the perfect campfire easy as well. Larger groups can also be accommodated including booking the entire site - just message us for details. Services are limited to space, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, museums or lazing about in a tiny riverfront town are all minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River, the ferry to Indiana, the historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology". Do nothing or do something.

Carriage House Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · North Bend, OH

We are an Ohio Century Farm located in historic North Bend, Ohio. Single-family owned since 1855, our farm is located only 20 minutes outside of downtown Cincinnati but feels as if you are in the country side. Our campsites are located within a easy 5 minute walk of our on-farm distillery, winery, market, and food truck. Part of our 300 acre property is part of the conservation easement that makes up the "Oxbow," a migratory bird and waterfowl area that is popular among birdwatchers in the spring and autumn seasons. We have a large eagle population along with a host of other raptors.

The Vintage Farm

17 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · New Whiteland, IN

I have two acres in the country while only about 10 minutes from a nice sized city with plenty of restaurants, movie theatres and shopping. I'm only 5 minutes from an arcade with go-karting and putt-putt golf. My red barn was built in the 1800s and really adds to the charm of the property. I have a fully fenced yard, if you have pets I would be happy to share with them so they would have space to run while you're here.

Star Hosts in Lake Santee

100%

(10)

Cobbler's Knob

12 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Milton, IN

Looking for a quiet weekend in the country? Passing through central Indiana on your way to another destination? Cobbler's Knob might be the perfect place for you! We offer a peaceful setting on 25 acres with spaces for anyone looking for more privacy to those who'd like to be a little closer to the action of our working farm. We have large campsites that allow room for RVs, even on the primitive tent sites. Three of our sites offer water and electric hookup. We supply a fire pit for each site and can have firewood stacked and waiting for you upon request. We also have a bathroom with a toilet and sink near all of the campsites. You are welcome to stay at the farm for the entire stay or if you want to explore the area, we have many nearby attractions including many restaurants, antique stores, bars and wineries, coffee shops, etc. Indiana's oldest family-owned apple orchard, Dougherty Orchards is a must-see and located just a few miles down the road. If you are looking for a fun, safe, family atmosphere, Cobbler's Knob might just be the place for you!

Marick Acres

6 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Carthage, IN

What once started in the mid 1800's as a 240 acre sugar maple tree farm is now our little 18 acres of heaven on earth. Our house was built in 1875 and for those who love old houses, tours can be arranged! The land is rolling and dotted with flower beds, animals, and beautiful green grass that is mowed weekly. We are bordered by fields and a cemetery that dates back to the 1800's. We are neighbors with those who grow crops, raise beef cows, bison, and alpacas. 2 blocks from our driveway is Blue River which offers fishing, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing (if you have your own equipment). Town is 2 minutes away, but there is not much there other than a convenience gas station, thrift shop, a nic-nac store that still sells penny candy, and an engine repair shop. "Civilization" is a 30 minute drive to find movies, grocery, shopping, and a public pool. The sky appears to be scattered with diamonds on a clear night and during season the fireflies light the trees up like twinkling lights at Christmas! Learn more about this land: We have an 18 acre mini farm, close to a small town and near a river. We have two small ponds that can be fished in during the spring, wildlife, and birds to watch. There are 6 very nice areas for camp sites that allow for privacy and relaxation. Each site has a fire pit and table. We also have just put in a new out house and have a port-a-potty for our campers to use. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 70 and only 30 minutes from Indianapolis. If you are just passing through or arriving late, let us know and we will be happy to have a campfire started for you. Accommodations can be made for group camping! We also have a gazebo that can be used for weddings and vow renewals. Officiant on site.

Away at Green Hill

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Union, KY

Hipcamp Best Camping Runner Up 2023 and 2024! Spring is here and Summer isn't far behind. Book now and enjoy the privacy and the convience of Away at Green Hill. Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Indiana and the Ohio River, this 26 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there is wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single track hiking trail, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Onsite firewood for purchase makes the perfect campfire easy as well. Larger groups can also be accommodated including booking the entire site - just message us for details. Services are limited to space, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, museums or lazing about in a tiny riverfront town are all minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River, the ferry to Indiana, the historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology". Do nothing or do something.

99%

(97)

Nayture's Hilltop Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Columbus, IN

Beautiful wooded 36 acre property in Brown County; 2 large fishing ponds, each with a dock; paddle boat available for use; 1+ mile hiking trail around property; 9-hole Frisbee Golf Course; water spicket available; outhouse available. 9 miles to Brown County State Park North Gate; 4.8 miles to historic Story Inn; 12 miles to downtown Nashville.

Pyramid Point

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Connersville, IN

Nestled at the foot of Mounds State Park and Brookville Lake.Learn more about this land:Pull through Campsite with Full hook up.Located 1000ft from Brookville Lake Public Property with Woods, Trails, Hiking, State Hunting and 1500ft from the Egypt Hollow Boat Ramp on Brookville Lake with Boat ramp, swimming, fishing and Water Sports.Site is newly developed with Fresh Gravel and 16x24 Conctete Patio.The Brookville Lake, Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA16,445 acres - 5,260-acre lakeThe lake property has more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing. Two beaches.

Under $50

Booked 2 times

Riverfront Camping, White Rock Park

2 sites · Tents45 acres · St Paul, IN

The beautiful Flat Rock River bends around our property and provides an amazing riverfront camping experience. There are two lakes on the property that can be enjoyed by kayaking or fishing. All of our sites are primitive with no water or electric hookups. Campers and RVs are permitted, but they must be self contained.

Backroads Vineyard

2 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Laurel, IN

19 acre farm with Winery. We have 2 ponds and small trails in woods. Few fire rings and winery pavillion. Outdoor bathroom with flushing toliet and running water. Picnic table area. Easy access for RVs. 8 min from Metamora 10 min from Haspin acres. 30 min from Brookville lake. Whitewater trails

Pyramid Point

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Connersville, IN

Nestled at the foot of Mounds State Park and Brookville Lake.Learn more about this land:Pull through Campsite with Full hook up.Located 1000ft from Brookville Lake Public Property with Woods, Trails, Hiking, State Hunting and 1500ft from the Egypt Hollow Boat Ramp on Brookville Lake with Boat ramp, swimming, fishing and Water Sports.Site is newly developed with Fresh Gravel and 16x24 Conctete Patio.The Brookville Lake, Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA16,445 acres - 5,260-acre lakeThe lake property has more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing. Two beaches.

Sugar Maple Grove

10 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Brownsville, IN

Nice secluded camp sites with lots of space and privacy. fire wood available. Picnic tables at rv sites 1 & 2 Close to Brookville Lake. Tent camping and two rv sites that can fit any size rv, just keep in mind this is dirt road to dispersed site's so please reservesite in summer months or walk to site in winter months. Very scenic private sites surrounded by nature with fire pits. Beautiful for any weekend get away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres and about 20 acres of flat grass Fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced In so please close gates back when you open them. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have been working hard on our property to turn it into a campground for a few years and this is our first year doing hip camp. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway. help us make our campground better.

Marick Acres

6 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Carthage, IN

What once started in the mid 1800's as a 240 acre sugar maple tree farm is now our little 18 acres of heaven on earth. Our house was built in 1875 and for those who love old houses, tours can be arranged! The land is rolling and dotted with flower beds, animals, and beautiful green grass that is mowed weekly. We are bordered by fields and a cemetery that dates back to the 1800's. We are neighbors with those who grow crops, raise beef cows, bison, and alpacas. 2 blocks from our driveway is Blue River which offers fishing, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing (if you have your own equipment). Town is 2 minutes away, but there is not much there other than a convenience gas station, thrift shop, a nic-nac store that still sells penny candy, and an engine repair shop. "Civilization" is a 30 minute drive to find movies, grocery, shopping, and a public pool. The sky appears to be scattered with diamonds on a clear night and during season the fireflies light the trees up like twinkling lights at Christmas! Learn more about this land: We have an 18 acre mini farm, close to a small town and near a river. We have two small ponds that can be fished in during the spring, wildlife, and birds to watch. There are 6 very nice areas for camp sites that allow for privacy and relaxation. Each site has a fire pit and table. We also have just put in a new out house and have a port-a-potty for our campers to use. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 70 and only 30 minutes from Indianapolis. If you are just passing through or arriving late, let us know and we will be happy to have a campfire started for you. Accommodations can be made for group camping! We also have a gazebo that can be used for weddings and vow renewals. Officiant on site.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(5)

Whitewater State Park IN

Liberty, Indiana

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(3)

Versailles State Park

Versailles, Indiana

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(2)

Hueston Woods State Park

College Corner, Ohio

100%

(2)

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

Kentucky

My friends and I hang out around the "naked tree" in the mornings to get the best photo ops.

100%

(1)

Summit Lake State Park

Clifty Falls State Park

Madison, Indiana

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Hoosier National Forest

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Hardy Lake

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Camping near Lake Santee guide

Overview

Right in the heart of Indiana is Lake Santee, full of serene waters and natural beauty. After fishing for bass in the 250-acre private lake, set up at family-run campsites in town with views of the water. After a day at the lake, head out of town and explore Brown County's lush woodlands and sweeping vistas via the Ogle Lake Loop. At Versailles State Park, cast a line to catch rainbow trout and bluegill. Clifty Falls State Park beckons with its rugged terrain and iconic waterfalls like Tunnel Falls. Then settle into the natural wonders that surround Lake Santee with more camping options that include spacious RV campsites with electrical hookups and pristine tent campgrounds in shaded groves.

Where to go

Brown County State Park

A scenic hour-and-a-half drive from Lake Santee, Brown County State Park enchants campers with its rolling hills, dense forests, and steep ravines created by glacial water. Embark on hikes along Hesitation Point Trail lead to picturesque vistas of the “Little Smokies.” Or climb the 90-foot Fire Tower for even better views. The park also offers spacious campgrounds equipped with electric and a dump station as well as fire pits, picnic areas, and modern restrooms. Campers may want to plan a visit in fall as the park is known as a “fall color hot spot.”

Versailles State Park

A hidden gem within an hour of Lake Santee, Versailles State Park invites campers to enjoy the natural sights of Indiana’s second largest state park. Go boating and fishing in the shimmering lake, where anglers can reel in rainbow trout and bluegill. Then take a hike or horseback ride along miles of trails. Lookout for local wildlife like herons around the park, but beware of limestone sinkholes as well. On-site campgrounds provide electric hookups and cozy retreats with amenities like clean restrooms and picnic spots for both tents and RVs.

Clifty Falls State Park

Clifty Falls State Park is a captivating destination renowned for its cascading waterfalls like Tunnel Falls and Hoffman Falls. Take the Four Falls Hiking Challenge and keep a lookout for the park’s historic fossils, but collecting them is prohibited. It’s said that the waterfalls are at their peak during winter and spring; however campers can choose from a variety of accommodations year-round, including tent campsites and RV electric hookups, all equipped with modern conveniences like restrooms and potable water.

When to go

Lake Santee and its neighboring state parks offer year-round appeal. Summer temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F, which is ideal for water-based activities. Spring and fall bring vibrant foliage that charm campers during hiking exploration. Winter temperatures range from 20°F to 40°F and are ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports.