Forest camping in Indiana with fishing
Camp at sandy beaches, farmlands, and forests all in one state.
96% (881 reviews)
- Indiana
96% (881 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Indiana
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
12 top forest campgrounds in Indiana with fishing
100%
(8)
Creek’s Bend Camp
3 sites · Tents100 acres · Williamsport, IN
Nestled in a bend on the Big Pine Creek, this 100 acre property is characterized by its hardwood forests, pine woods, bubbling creek, restored prairie, and sandstone bluffs. It’s serene beauty feels healing and inspiring no matter which direction you choose wander.
There are miles of walking trails on property and on adjoining nature preserves. During fair weather you may see people float by in kayaks, canoes, or tubes. Come watch for wildlife, play in the creek, gaze up at the stars, and reconnect with yourself. With advance notice, I may be able to give you a 15 minute garden and property tour! Just let me know when you book. Want to book for a large group? Send me a message and I will try to accommodate you.
* NICHES Crow's Grove Nature Preserve (Hiking, 2 minutes away)
* Williamsport Falls (Indiana’s highest free-falling water fall, 15 minutes away)
* Downtown Williamsport (Grocery, bars/restaurants, hospital, 15 minutes away)
* Hooker Corner Winery (Wine and events, 16 minutes away)
* Downtown Pine Village (Coffee shop, gas, and pizza, 18 minutes away)
* Downtown Attica (Grocery, gas, restaurants, drug store, 18 minutes away)
* Ravine Park (Walking trails, disc golf, huge playground, 18 minutes away)
* Badlands off-road park (Attraction, 20 minutes away)
* Portland Arch Nature Preserve (Hiking, 30 minutes away)
* NICHES Black Rock Nature Preserve (Hiking, 30 minutes away)
* Downtown Danville, IL (Bars/restraunts, grocery, dispensary, 35 minutes away)
* Purdue University (40 minutes away)
* Shades State Park (Hiking, 50 minutes away)
* Turkey Run State Park (Hiking, 50 minutes away)
This property is an easy and scenic 40 minute drive from Purdue’s campus, making it the perfect get away for students and townies, or a unique place to stay for people wanting to visit Purdue. To remove a barrier for students, Purdue students may request a free tent for their stay at Creek’s Bend Campground!
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$30
/ night
99%
(83)
River Camp Fort Wayne
10 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Fort Wayne, IN
Each site is in a wooded, shaded area with a flat area on the ground to place a single large tent. Each site has its own fire ring and a small wooden table. There is wood on the ground you may use for firewood, and ample twigs etc on the ground for kindling (do not cut any trees or branches off trees). There is a covered firewood shed with dry firewood as well. There are maintained trails with river access for kayaks. There is a porta potty near the campsites with a handwashing station, that is open year round. There is a single bathroom with flush toilet and sink with running water that is a short walk away (open May-Oct depending on weather) There is an outdoor hot-water shower at bathroom, with a water hose available as well. Campsites are a short walk (100-200 feet) away from parking area (you cannot drive directly to or park at your campsite). Foster Park is a short bike ride away where you will find greenway trails that run throughout Fort Wayne (ride your bike to downtown!!) Our property backs up to the St Mary's River, bring you kayaks and fishing poles!
(We reserve the right to assign you to a different (but equally beautiful) campsite in the case of property maintennance concerns, recent rain or weather conditions etc). All guests must be part of a registered group!
Link to Trails Maps
fwtrails.org
Need to rent a bike or kayak:
fwoutfitters.com/#
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$30
/ night
96%
(55)
Hidden Valley Fun Time Happy Camp!
30 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Muncie, IN
Once the secret speakeasy after dark spot for local political big wigs this property has been transformed from swampland to hidden gem right on the edge of America's Hometown of Muncie, Indiana!
Welcome to Narnia! Or Atlantis!? Or... The Property? The Hidden Valley? We just haven't committed to a name yet so it's a little bit of everything all rolled into one! 8 acres on the magical Ganges, er, White River makes for a fun time. You can expect a certain amount of privacy while still potentially making a new friend or two depending on the night. You will be nestled under some giant sycamores, cottonwoods, black walnuts, catulpas, and a mess of bush honeysuckle that is always being battled! We have 2-3 sites directly on the river and then scores throughout with trails, hills, and other interesting features. Multiple firepits though I CANNOT guarantee firewood. There is often plenty to collect or available on site but if you can bring your own that'd be safest bet!
We are (somehow) located partially inside Muncie city limits right on the river. Yes you may occasionally hear some trains or even particularly loud cars while camping deep in the woods but this is the tradeoff for a one mile drive to bars, restaurants, and groceries! Best of both worlds. The Muncie Eagles, whose nest resides directly across the river from us, do not seem to mind! This location is also directly on two main bike trail routes and our trails are fun for low impact mountain biking! We also have a small armada of kayaks/canoes on site; IF arranged that option does exist for cost of transport! We have 2 porta potties on site as well and fresh water hose available at main house.
Looking forward to hosting!
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$45
/ night
100%
(14)
Michigan City Camping/4min to Beach
1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Michiana Shores, IN
Discover the ultimate outdoor retreat at our secluded campsite in Michigan City, Indiana, nestled on 9 acres of lush woodland just minutes from the beach. Our spacious site accommodates multiple tents and features a hammock, bonfire pit (Fire wood provided), and picnic table for your comfort. Enjoy the tranquility of nature with the convenience of local breweries, wineries, and the Indiana Dunes National Park nearby. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our campsite offers the perfect backdrop for your next camping getaway.
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$105
/ night
100%
(12)
Farm to Folklore
1 site · Lodging40 acres · Delphi, IN
Farm to Folklore is an inclusive getaway and activity farm where all are welcome to rest and explore. Rent the farmstays filled with mystery and wonder. An eclectic expression of the rural Midwest mixed with just right touch of the fantastical. Our 40 acre farm has beautiful fields, woods with trails and creeks, and even a small pond with an island. An adventure awaits while walking through the fields, gardens, pond, and forest trails. At the pond one can discover a canoe and kayack for fishing and fun. Bonfire areas throughout the property. Visit with the ponies, ducks, and farm cats. Experiences available for everyone.
Close to Indiana Beach, Delphi Historic Wabash and Erie Canal, Brookston Festivals.
Please be aware our property is a family farm and we host mutiple stays. Please be respectful of other guests and private spaces. Thank you
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$90
/ night
96%
(36)
Buck Creek Sanctuary
20 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Elizabeth, IN
Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves.
“There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places”
-Wendell Berry
Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred.
Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives
Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet.
He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others
to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.
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$10
/ night
98%
(59)
Lochloosa River Retreat
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Monterey, IN
Welcome to Lochloosa River Retreat! We are a small hobby farm on a little over 6 acres of partially wooded land with nearly 700 feet of river frontage on the beautiful Tippecanoe River! We offer primitive tent and primitive dry RV camping with indoor restroom and showers. There is a lovely creek that flows through the property, perfect for exploring and having fun for kids or the kid at heart! Lochloosa is like a sanctuary for wildlife and humans alike! Spend some time watching the many birds, arrange a tubing or kayaking trip on the river, fish off the riverbank, relax and have fun at the in ground saltwater pool complete with slide and diving board, or kick back at your campsite near the creek, gaining some ZEN while listening to the sounds of the babbling brook and watching the amazing sunrises and sunsets! Explore nearby Lake Maxinkuckee beach, named one of Indiana's top twelve lakes to visit and browse the shops and restaurants in Culver. Whatever you decide to enjoy while you're here, we welcome you and hope you love this little slice of camping paradise as much as we do!
We offer a limited number of tube and kayak trips. Please message me for more info or add it as an extra to your reservation to arrange your float in advance of your stay.
All campers have shared access to one indoor family/unisex restroom with two toilets and two showers.
Please be sure to check all info and rules for the particular site that you book. We allow pets in sites north of the creek only as our pets and farm animals live on the south side. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
There is a nearby country store within 2 miles that offers chicken, pizza, ice and miscellaneous items for your convenience!
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$48
/ night
100%
(103)
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.
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$35
/ night
Booked 5 times
Carefree Sister's Sleepover
1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Leavenworth, IN
Our 6 acre property is a small, simple place to sleep for a night or a weekend while you're traveling through. No fancy frills, just a quiet, pretty place to pitch a tent or park your camper for an evening or two.
During the eclipse this weekend, we are at 99.95% totality.
Only 3.2 miles north of Exit 92 (Carefree exit with a Love's Truckstop), this is the perfect place to stop over while traveling.
Both my sister and I travel solo and with friends and having affordable place to park your vehicle or pitch a tent with a place to go to the restroom, gaze at the stars, and have a campfire makes cross country trips more enjoyable.
Our land has a gorgeous nighttime view of the stars on the front half, and the back half is wooded and boarders a creek. At night, you can watch the soft glow of the Milky Way climb across the sky or sit by a campfire.
There is a cleared walking path from the front of the land to the creek at the back so you can sit for a while and enjoy the sound of the running water 11 months a year (the creek is very low in August). You can't drive back there, but you could pitch your tent in the flat area by the creek.
If you stay for a few days, we are:
5 miles to the Louisville Astronomical Society's Dark Sky viewing location,
6.1 miles to Wyandotte Park
7.8 miles to Marengo Cave
8.6 miles Cave Country Canoe
6.6 miles Rothrocks Mill Public Access to Blue River
NOTE: This property is completely off grid.
We have an enclosed Thetford Cassette toilet and hand sanitizer on the porch of the little yellow cabin in a green privacy tent.
A gas fire ring.
This place is very safe, but I always like to be near the road when I travel solo. You might choose to park a little further in, and that is fine, but the topography goes downhill (literally) toward the back of the field. You are welcome to park by our little tiny house if your vehicle is safe to do so. Be aware that this road is gravel and in the spring, it can be muddy if there has been a lot of rain!
Remember, we are in the country. :) Our neighbors have cows and they talk to each other during the day. You might hear dogs in the distance, as farmers often have dogs. There is a friendly slow-moving elderly, quiet, yellow lab dog who sometimes shows up for rump scratches. I don't know his name, but he waddles around for a few minutes then wanders off. Super friendly, even to dogs who are skittish. In the summer, you will hear birds, crickets, and cicadas, so if nature sounds annoy you, this might not be the place for ya!
We love this little get away and we think it is perfect for a safe, simple, and affordable place to stay while you are on the road. :) If you have any questions, reach out!
While you are here, please feel free to message us if you need something or have questions. We are happy to help and if we aren't sleeping, we will respond as soon as possible!
For special groups that plan in advance:
My little sister is a Wilderness EMT and has taught Survival courses for over 10 years. It might be fun to get a group of friends together and take a small group weekend course on the property where you'd learn how to build a fire, make simple shelters, walk slack lines, orient, and learn what to do if you are lost in the woods (and/or how to teach children what to do if they are lost in the woods), among other things.
I have a telescope and for those groups, I can set up the telescope for you to see stars and planets.
Other options include a rest and reflection weekend, group yoga weekends, and group sound baths. If these options interest you, reach out in advance.
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$9
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100%
(7)
Celtic Glen Farm Stay
11 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.
Nearby fun and food:
We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2 miles of lots of options:
Many events happen on the Spencer town square (including Spencer Pride events); and at the Owen County Fairgrounds which are actually in town along the White River and hosts events such as the White River Poultry Show.
Historic Tivoli Theatre with big-screen movies and more just off the square
Hilltop Family Restaurant (vintage style family restaurant less than 2 miles north off 231)
Owen Valley Winery –good food as well (often free live music)
Stable Studios music venue (12 miles from farm)
Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub (family friendly space, amazing food and beer and craft soda)
Main Street Coffee and Kitchen –a gorgeous café with breakfast and lunch (including Bivi’s tamales)
Millie McGee’s Gosport Diner –amazing comfort food in a charming super-small town just across the river (drive north on 231 then east in 67; 23 E Main St, Gosport; 8 miles from the farm)
McCormick’s Creek State Park: Canyon Inn for dining, lots of trails, pool in the summer, horse stables
Cataract Falls State Recreation Area just north off 231 –really lovely waterfall (13 miles)
Green’s Bluff Nature Preserve (Nature Conservancy; 9 miles from farm)
Other locally-owned eating: Babs supermarket and deli, Crossroads 46 Diner, Papi Chulo’s Cantina, Jit’s Thai Bistro on square, Chambers buffet on square, Grand’s Ice Cream, Sweet Valley Ice Cream.
Of course, Bloomington is just 20 minutes away with lots to offer.
McCormick's Creek State Park
Owen Valley Winery
Green's Bluff Nature Preserve
Exotic Feline Rescue Center
Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Indiana University
Hoosier National Forest
Tulip Trestle
Please ask if there is something specific you’d like to find.
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$35
/ night
98%
(43)
The Fun Farm
2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Fort Wayne, IN
Learn more about this land:
Our location is also home to our fantasy destination, The Fun Farm. Not only is the scenery replete with natural beauty - the pond, the fields, the sledding hill, the nature trail through the forest - but also a setting to engage the imagination!
Additional services may be arranged on-site. For example, who would you like to have breakfast with? A superhero? A princess? Or perhaps a souvenir caricature of you and your group is in order to commemorate the experience? Maybe an experiential art, dance, drama or music lesson? Guided tours of the grounds can also be arranged to learn more about the history of the farm and it's originality.
If you're interested in a "day trip" or even a limited event, we have the facilities to accommodate your birthday or holiday, engage in art Classes, raise funds for your good cause or enjoy "something different" for this year's corporate party. We're also open to your ideas for a custom school, festival or carnival event. We can accommodate groups from 1 to 400 (maybe more, if we send a few enchanted creatures on vacation!)
MORE NOTES ABOUT THE CAMPSITE: We're flexible with wherever you would like to pitch your tent, but the spots we have established are next to our cabin (where the lighting is best and the ground is flattest.) Parking is most easily found next to these sites as well (and the lighting is also excellent.) Also, in the near vicinity, a shared firepit is readily available and can accommodate at least 12 people.
Check out the additional options (like firewood bundles) below and let us know how we can help you make great memories!
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$40
/ night
100%
(11)
Big Stones Ranch
1 site · Lodging95 acres · Delphi, IN
Our Creekside Cabin is located on the Wildcat Creek about 15 minutes from Lafayette and 10 minutes to either Delphi or Rossville. This cabin was originally built on our farm as an alternative to camping on the ground in a tent. While we don’t consider this to be “glamping,” it is certainly a step above “primitive.”
Cabin features:
12’x12’ of living space
4’x12’ covered porch
Limited supply of off-grid electricity
Kitchen counter with running cold water (Mar-Oct only)
Toilet (Mar-Oct only)
Mr. Buddy propane heater (use at your own risk)
Window fan
A fold-down style futon
Two “bunks”
Site features:
Gorgeous view of and access to the Wildcat Creek
Fire pit
Camp chairs
Hammock
Porch-style swing overlooking the creek
Property features:
Access to wading, fishing, tubing, kayaking or canoeing on the Wildcat Creek
Fishing pond stocked with bass and bluegill
Nearly 100 acres and three miles of trails for walking, hiking, and exploring
Ask about pricing for the following:
Kayaks
Float tubes
Fishing equipment
Firewood
Our goal is to provide a relaxing and peaceful getaway for those that enjoy all that nature has to offer in Indiana with a few creature comforts beyond primitive tent camping. Loud music, drunkenness, rowdiness, firearms, motor vehicles, disruptive children, and anything else that would be a distraction to other guests or neighbors will not be permitted.
*Note that the Wildcat is a public waterway and subject to state licensing and requirements.
Pets
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$100
/ night
Star Hosts in Indiana
Available this weekend
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Forest camping in Indiana with fishing guide
Overview
Stretching down from the Great Lakes into the southern heartlands, Indiana borrows the best of both regions for a warm hug of southern hospitality bolstered by the outdoorsy spirit of the Midwest. Outdoor adventurers can climb the sand dunes along Lake Michigan, paddle the Ohio River, or trek through forested canyons, while a bonafide Indiana camping experience means fishing for your supper and toasting s’mores on the campfire. With temperatures that rarely fall below zero even in mid-winter, camping is a year-round affair in Indiana. Our pick is fall, when breezy weather and fiery autumnal colors make for incredible hiking.
Where to go
North Indiana
Indiana’s most Instagram-worthy landscapes can be found at the state’s northeastern boundary. Sloping dunes and sandy beaches line the southern shore of Lake Michigan, and Indiana Dunes National Park has tent and RV camping right by the beach. Further east, industrial towns pepper the road to Amish Country, where you can check into a rustic log cabin in the woods or camp by the lake in Chain O’Lakes State Park.
Central Indiana
Indiana’s central plains are dotted with laidback market towns, cornfields, and lakes. Indianapolis pulls in crowds for its summer motorsports events, most notably the famous Indy 500, but campers can easily escape the city for nearby Mccormick’s Creek State Park or Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Just to the south, Brown County is home to Monroe Lake, the state’s largest lake, hemmed in by Yellowwood State Forest and Brown County State Park.
Southern Indiana
Hilly southern Indiana is blanketed with woodlands, most notably the forested trails and canyons of Hoosier National Forest. Come in fall to hike against a backdrop of foliage or canoe along Sugar Creek, one of the state’s top paddling destinations. Further south, the Ohio River Scenic Byway draws adventurers to hike, paddle, camp, and fish.
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