The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Bloomington, Indiana

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 635 options near Bloomington, Indiana, that cater to your preference for camping near a river, you'll have no trouble finding the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Hones Pointe (352 reviews), and Marick Acres (253 reviews). Plus, with amenities like showers, trash disposal, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. And if you're looking for activities to keep you busy, you can try horseback riding, wind sports, or even surfing. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $15, camping near Bloomington, Indiana has never been more accessible. So start planning your next camping trip and get ready to experience the beauty of nature!

95% (343)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 635 options near Bloomington, Indiana, that cater to your preference for camping near a river, you'll have no trouble finding the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Hones Pointe (352 reviews), and Marick Acres (253 reviews). Plus, with amenities like showers, trash disposal, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. And if you're looking for activities to keep you busy, you can try horseback riding, wind sports, or even surfing. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $15, camping near Bloomington, Indiana has never been more accessible. So start planning your next camping trip and get ready to experience the beauty of nature!

95% (343)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%

(96)

29mi from Bloomington · 4 sites · Lodging · Bedford, IN

Our cabins sits on 100 acres. Our cabins have AC/Heat. A dry sink are in each cabin are provided. Roast hotdogs over your private fire pit as a fire pit is just outside the cabin along with private picnic table. We have a shower bathroom house. You provide your own towel, and soap products. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under your control at all times. Privy's are found just outside the cabin. We have miles of hiking trails and several spring fed creeks so take your hiking boots off and wade in the clean cool water. Stars are in abundance at Guthrie Meadows so star gazing is a must!

2. Celtic Glen Farm Stay

98%

(53)

15mi from Bloomington · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Spencer, IN

Celtic Glen is a working, 100 acre 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. Lots of space between campsites and are often all to yourself. 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, 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), family friendly (children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times). *We have lots of on-farm food and supplies options, please contact us for a complete list and any requests. All sites have a private stone fire circle as well as access to a common grill, handwashing station, porta potty or septic outhouse, cold/solar water shower. *We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options. *Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

3. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

14mi from Bloomington · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 five 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.

4. Nightfall Farm

100%

(74)

48mi from Bloomington · 2 sites · Lodging · Crothersville, IN

We're bringing my family farm back to life. My parents farmed here until the 1980's, but couldn't make a profit with corn and soybeans. My husband, Nate, and I moved home in 2014, and started turning the fields into pastures. Today, we run Nightfall Farm, raise animals with respect, and sell pasture-raised meat locally. Come wander the 125 acres of woods, wetlands, and farm. Check out the animals in our pastures, and walk along the Muscatatuck River. Enjoy a quiet fire. Hear the roar of frogs calling in Spring. Chase fireflies. Behold a family farm coming back to life.

5. Cera Sports Park and Campground

62%

(13)

38mi from Bloomington · 301 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Columbus, IN

With 326 campsites, CERA offers plenty of camping spots. 252 sites are full-service sites with water, 30 & 50 amp electric, and sewer hookups. Check out our campground map below to see which sites will suit your stay! CERA offers six camping cabins of various sizes. All cabins sit on lakefront lots amid the trees. Bathhouse facilities are located within 100 feet directly behind the cabins. Our camping cabins are a great option for enjoying the outdoors without having to pitch a tent or pull a camper. There are three shower houses available and a centrally located dump station.

6. The Timbercrest Ranch

98%

(25)

16mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, IN

The land consists of: 100 acres of forest, pastures, four ponds, orchards, hoop house, pavilion area with grill, 150-year-old tobacco barn, gardens, chickens, guineas, turkeys, 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: Several trails with lots of opportunities to see nature, particularly wild turkey's and deer and the local bison farm.

7. Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

47mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Paoli, IN

Nestled deep in Hoosier National Forest and just a short drive from Paoli and French Lick, Indiana, Nighthawk Forest offers a secluded and pristine outdoor experience for all camping enthusiasts! Situated on 65 hilly and wooded acres, Nighthawk Forest features well-groomed tent pads, water and electric hookups for RVs and even vintage campers. Enjoy breathtaking walks in the woods, go fishing in our pond, and set up your camp chairs under the incredible night sky and marvel under the majesty of the Milky Way! Take a hike or a mountain bike ride on the Springs Valley Trail down to Tucker Lake. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Nighthawk Forest Campground. For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 812-203-0200.

8. Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

27mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

9. Kerr creek

100%

(20)

5.3mi from Bloomington · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IN

Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.

10. Thirsty Acres

100%

(1)

49mi from Bloomington · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Shelbyville, IN

Welcome to our picturesque 24-acre retreat nestled along the banks of the Big Blue River! Located just minutes from the excitement of Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing and Casino, downtown bars, and the Blue Bear Golf Course, our tranquil oasis offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Unwind at our Tiki Bar, where you can sip refreshing drinks and soak up the sunshine while taking in the stunning views of the river. Whether you're catching up with friends or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the water, our Tiki Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Explore the natural beauty of our wooded surroundings as you stroll along scenic trails and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. With acres of pristine wilderness to discover, there's always something new to see and explore. Fire up the grill at our pavilion and enjoy a delicious barbecue with family and friends. With plenty of seating and space for outdoor dining, our pavilion is the ideal spot to gather for meals and create lasting memories together. For those seeking adventure on the water, kayaking and tubing are available for an additional fee when conditions are favorable. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Big Blue River and take in the breathtaking scenery as you explore the waterways surrounding our property. We offer a limited number of 30-amp service spots for an additional fee, with all other guests welcome to run on a generator. With plenty of space to hang out and enjoy all that Shelbyville has to offer, our retreat is the perfect destination for your next getaway!

11. Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

7.3mi from Bloomington · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

Camper favorites near Bloomington

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

47mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Paoli, IN

Nestled deep in Hoosier National Forest and just a short drive from Paoli and French Lick, Indiana, Nighthawk Forest offers a secluded and pristine outdoor experience for all camping enthusiasts! Situated on 65 hilly and wooded acres, Nighthawk Forest features well-groomed tent pads, water and electric hookups for RVs and even vintage campers. Enjoy breathtaking walks in the woods, go fishing in our pond, and set up your camp chairs under the incredible night sky and marvel under the majesty of the Milky Way! Take a hike or a mountain bike ride on the Springs Valley Trail down to Tucker Lake. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Nighthawk Forest Campground. For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 812-203-0200.

Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

27mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

Kerr creek

100%

(20)

5.3mi from Bloomington · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IN

Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.

Thirsty Acres

100%

(1)

49mi from Bloomington · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Shelbyville, IN

Welcome to our picturesque 24-acre retreat nestled along the banks of the Big Blue River! Located just minutes from the excitement of Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing and Casino, downtown bars, and the Blue Bear Golf Course, our tranquil oasis offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Unwind at our Tiki Bar, where you can sip refreshing drinks and soak up the sunshine while taking in the stunning views of the river. Whether you're catching up with friends or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the water, our Tiki Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Explore the natural beauty of our wooded surroundings as you stroll along scenic trails and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. With acres of pristine wilderness to discover, there's always something new to see and explore. Fire up the grill at our pavilion and enjoy a delicious barbecue with family and friends. With plenty of seating and space for outdoor dining, our pavilion is the ideal spot to gather for meals and create lasting memories together. For those seeking adventure on the water, kayaking and tubing are available for an additional fee when conditions are favorable. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Big Blue River and take in the breathtaking scenery as you explore the waterways surrounding our property. We offer a limited number of 30-amp service spots for an additional fee, with all other guests welcome to run on a generator. With plenty of space to hang out and enjoy all that Shelbyville has to offer, our retreat is the perfect destination for your next getaway!

Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

7.3mi from Bloomington · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

Public campgrounds near Bloomington

Clean inviting campgrounds at Paynetown SRA on Monroe Lake. There are Modern toilets/showerhouse nearby.

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

7.3mi from Bloomington · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

100%

(5)

McCormicks Creek Campground

14mi from Bloomington · 233 sites · Tents, RVs · in McCormicks Creek State Park

Rattlesnake Campground

16mi from Bloomington · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Fish Creek Campground

20mi from Bloomington · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Horse Campground

22mi from Bloomington · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Greene-Sullivan Campground

40mi from Bloomington · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greene-Sullivan State Forest

Stories from the community

C

Charles

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

Great experience. Beautiful place. Hope to stay there again…soon. Charlie

Jessica

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

This is our second time here and my goodness, it’s perfect. My daughter loves hiking on the property and petting the horses. It has everything you NEED and the warm shelter after a rainy hike at McCormicks Creek State Park is always what we need. Can’t wait to come back again. Our little dude with Cerebral Palsy could absolutely love this property too.

M

Matias Ignacio

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cera Sports Park and Campground

Quiet and beautiful place. Kids friendly. Clean bathrooms.

m

mike

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

My boyfriend and I stayed here for a short-notice camping trip, and we’re so glad we chose this farm. We booked the upper vista site and it was peaceful, secluded, and beautifully tucked away.. exactly what we were hoping for. Even though we arrived later than planned, Phil and Lessie were incredibly nice, welcoming, and understanding. The next morning we woke up to the sound of Highland cows and a few donkeys, which was both funny and surprisingly relaxing. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee by the fire while taking it all in. We were greeted by the owners’ sweet, friendly dogs, and later got to tour the farm. It was so much fun seeing the goats, Highland cows, donkeys, and especially watching their cattle dog proudly show off his herding skills. Lessie shared so much interesting information about the farm and the history behind the animals, you can tell she truly loves what she does. Overall our stay was amazing, peaceful, and refreshing. We’ve already planned to come back, and next time we’re bringing our kids and family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a unique farm experience!

J

Juan

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private

N

Nikhil Kumar

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

I loved the cabin so much that we plan to come here next season as well

Z

Zack

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Great tent site! Great communication with Leslie. Would go again

d

david

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Low stress place to camp. Nice fire ring! Bathroom basic, but very, very clean! Dogs nearby were quiet at night and not bothersome generally.

J

October 2025

45 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Dirt Weapon Ranch

Pros: RV electric hookups. Clean onsite bathroom with running water, sink, flushing toilet and shower. Nice well maintained camping sites (tent and RV). Plenty of land to roam and enjoy nature. Beautiful views of the lakes, nature and wildlife. Cons: Limited number of firepits. All 5 RV sites share one firepit. Not a real issue if you're the only one there but not great if there are other groups booked on site. Some of the camping sites have firepits but not all of them. Lakes have some junk in them, tires, etc. There is overflow from the river so when it floods the river flows into the lakes and it brings along the trash with it. It wasn't too bad but does give you pause when considering swimming or fishing. Overall: We had a great trip and will book here again. The pro's outweigh the cons and it was a lot of fun getting away for a weekend with friends.

B

Bradley

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had a fabulous time! The campsite was nice and secluded. My wife appreciated the flushing outhouse. What is really special is the farm, so make sure to have some coffee with goats and do a farm tour if you have the time!

C

Caroline

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had the whole space to ourselves. The stars were magical and waking up with the dew on the greenery was so special.

G

Gina

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

We enjoyed staying with at Guthrie Meadows. Nice cabin. Bed... not so much.

M

Meg

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had a great time at Upper Vista! It was a beautiful and quiet place to relax. We will be back!

C

Caroline

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

So cozy and everything is ready to go in the cabin for a great night!

N

Naomi

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Will definitely be back! Highly recommend going at night to the stone henge to watch the stars.

jim

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Lovely quiet spot. Stayed in the little cabin. Comfortable.

P

Pradeep Kumar

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

Highly recommend. The clamping provides luxury and all amenities you need

B

Ben

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Upper vista was a great camping site. Plenty of fire wood! Incredible hospitality- the coffee was superb and so was the apple cake. Seeing the farm in action was a fantastic experience.

R

Rob

September 2025

14 ft toy hauler

3 nights at Nighthawk Forest

🤩 wow! This camp offers a quiet location in the middle of Hoosier National Forest. Several easy to use pull through sites. The deck platform is a very nice touch in front of our camper! Plenty of water spigots around. Hot showers and fire wood onsite. What more could you ask for? The host was very attentive and checked on us daily.

C

Collin

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Lessie and Phil are awesome! They made sure to check in to see if we needed anything. The property was beautiful and fun to explore. The farm tour and time with goats was well worth it for all ages. We will be back!