The best lakeside camping in Indiana

·

Looking to camp by a lake in Indiana? Look no further than Happy Campers Campground! With over 117 options in Indiana that offer a lake experience, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the game, we have something for everyone. Check out our top campsites like Sherfick Farms and Mirror Lake Private Property to see what fellow campers have to say. And with popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and showers, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, enjoy activities like horseback riding, hiking, and off-roading (OHV) to make the most of your time in nature. So pack your gear and get ready for a lake camping experience like no other in Indiana!

95% (1.1K) 5,383 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Indiana

Happy Campers Campground

1. Happy Campers Campground

99%
(198)
Brazil, IN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. We have trash bens available. Seasonal shower house and porta pottys. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! Open now. Class A motorhomes over 40 feet may encounter dragging entering the driveway, beware!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Cattail Springs

2. Cattail Springs

99%
(46)
Anderson, IN · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Cattail Springs! Nestled on nine wooded acres conveniently located just one mile off I-69 in Daleville, Indiana, this relaxing and peaceful property also features a five-acre, spring-fed pond. The pond is fully stocked with a variety of fish, inviting anglers of all skill levels to cast a line. We do ask that you respect the catch and release rule. Surrounded by trees, this former stone quarry feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy peaceful mornings by the water, afternoons filled with outdoor activities and quiet evenings by the fire pit under a starlit sky. Keep an eye out for deer, our resident blue herons, songbirds, ducks and other woodland creatures. Up to two dogs are permitted. Pet waste must be properly bagged and thrown away and dogs must be leashed when not at your immediate campsite. Enjoy free wifi to stream your favorite shows or connect to the office. The level of interstate travel noise that can be heard varies since the campground is within a mile of I-69. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS + CONVENIENCES (Anderson, Daleville + Chesterfield are all within minutes of the campground) Showers and gray water disposal: Pilot, 15876 W. Commerce Road, Daleville, IN 47334. Laundry at EZ Wash: 323 Anderson Road, Anderson, IN 46017. Badger Bait and Tackle: 121 W. Plum Street, Chesterfield, IN 46017. Firewood: purchase from us for a donation or at local gas stations. Groceries or supplies: Harvest Market (205 Federal Drive, Chesterfield, IN 46017). Exit 226, one exit south, offers Meijer, WalMart, pet food stores and more. Harrah's Hoosier Park Casino Racetrack: horse racing and gaming (4500 Dan Patch Circle, Anderson, IN 46013). Mounds State Park: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017, two miles from the property, features beautiful trails as well as ten earthworks built by the Adena-Hopewell people, prehistoric Indians. Entrance fee is typically $7. Dining: exit 234 offers traditional fast food options (Starbucks, Wawa, Wendy's, McDonald's, Subway, Wendy's, Culvers, Pizza King, Bird's Smokehouse and more). Exit 226, one exit south of Cattail Springs, offers a robust variety of restaurants, including McAlister's, Chick-fil-A, Montana Mike's, Texas Roadhouse, Chipotle, Olive Garden, Cracker Barrel and more.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lochloosa River Retreat

3. Lochloosa River Retreat

98%
(141)
Culver, IN · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lochloosa River Retreat – Family Fun, River Adventures and Relaxing Stays on the Tippecanoe! Welcome to Lochloosa River Retreat—your home away from home along the beautiful Tippecanoe River! Nestled on 6 peaceful acres, our hobby farm offers primitive tent camping, dry RV sites, a River View RV lodging site (RV included) and a cozy cabin stay in the Zen Shed—perfect for families, paddlers, and nature lovers looking to unwind. At full capacity, we can host up to 60 people and also offer group hosting. Paddle, float, and explore! We offer kayak and tubing trips on a scenic stretch of the river—message us to get on the float schedule. Guest enjoy playing in the shallow creek that winds through the property, as well as relaxing at camp, listening to the sounds of running water and a fire, or playing and cooling off in our saltwater pool complete with a slide and diving board. Wildlife is abundant, so bring your binoculars for birdwatching or cast a line from the riverbank. Want more comfort? Book a stay in the Zen Shed, our rustic riverside cabin or the River View RV for the ultimate glamping comfort—both perfect for a peaceful, unplugged getaway with real beds and front-row views of nature. Located near Lake Maxinkuckee and the charming town of Culver, there’s plenty to explore just a short drive away. There are also a few nature preserves nearby as well as a new Bark Park! A nearby country store (2 miles) offers pizza, chicken, ice, and other essentials. 🚿 Clean indoor bathrooms and showers 🏕️ Tent, RV sites, cabin lodging (Zen Shed) or RV lodging (River view RV) 🛶 Family-friendly tubing and kayak trips 🐾 Pet-friendly (north of the creek only) 🔥 Campfires, sunsets and stargazing galore Please review site details before booking. Pets are welcome only at campsites north of the creek, as our farm animals live on the south side. Please make sure to enter pets at booking to make sure your preferred site is pet friendly. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. We can’t wait to welcome you to Lochloosa—where adventure meets relaxation and memories are made by the river!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pokagon State Park

4. Pokagon State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Indiana · 273 sites
Two lakes and four seasons of outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

5. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%
(6)
State park in Indiana · 150 sites
Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Lake & Creek View Camper

6. Lake & Creek View Camper

Glenwood, IN · 1 site
Nestled amidst seven acres that includes a lake and creek, our private 2 acre lakefront retreat offers a sanctuary of tranquility and unique natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the serene embrace of nature as you explore our flat rock creek, adorned with small, shallow waterfalls that invite you to play and splash. Amenities: *Private Lake and Creek Access: Enjoy exclusive access to our lake and creek *Indulge in the thrill of fishing in our lake, where you can cast your line for largemouth bass and bluegill. Please practice respect and catch and release. Paddle boats are often, but not always available for leisurely exploration of the lake, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views from a unique perspective. *Firewood Available On-Site for Campfires: Gather around the warmth of a crackling you can bask in the tranquility and serenity of nature.campfire under the starry sky. Firewood is available on-site, so you can enjoy the quintessential camping experience. *Birdwatching Opportunities with the Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary Nearby: Our retreat is located in close proximity to the renowned Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat, and capture breathtaking photographs of these magnificent creatures. *Bicycle in the Surrounding Countryside Roads: Explore the scenic countryside surrounding our retreat on two wheels. Bring your bicycles and riding gear. *Life Jackets Provided for Safety: For your safety, we provide a limited supply of life jackets to our guests. However, we recommend that you bring your own life jackets if you have them Please Note: *On Your Drive In: Please drive carefully as there are Amish families residing in this area. *Respect for Neighbors: As we have neighbors bordering our property, we kindly request that you refrain from loud or late-night partying. *Limited Supply of Life Jackets: We have a limited supply of life jackets on-site, so we encourage you to bring your own if you have them. *Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for encounters with many types of wildlife, including insects and spiders! We are in the thick of Gods country, no refunds for wildlife encounters of any kind. *We are family friendly. No parties. Owners on site.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Places of Sanctuary

7. Places of Sanctuary

99%
(75)
Parkers Settlement, IN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond where there is plenty of shade and sun or sit around the bonfire site on the benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like deer, mink, ducks or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands-on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 5 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 32 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually, we can!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Camp Ames

8. Camp Ames

100%
(71)
Peru, IN · 3 sites
We have opened this up to some outside travelers to attract interest in our local community. Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and Class C RVs Learn more about this land: Camp Ames is located on the scenic Mississinewa River 3.5 miles outside of Peru, Indiana. We have full service camp sites. The camp shack is appointed with a picnic table and TV to catch up on the latest news. Bald eagles are a huge attraction in this area. Acres Trust Nature Preserve is a short walk away. We have our own 4 acre wildflower meadow that attracts many butterflies and birds during the summer months. It's just a peaceful, quiet place to visit. Cell phone service is not great here but not totally absent if you stand in the right place. Wi-Fi is available. This is our private camp ground and not a for public use unless arrangements are made with us. We will assign your site before your arrival. A vacancy on this site does not mean we have availability as our friends and family may be visiting. When requesting a site please include a description of your camper, the number of people and how many amps your camper requires. This help us place you on a site if one is available. Suggested Local Attractions:The World's Greatest Amateur Circus: Peru, Indiana, is also known as the "Circus City". In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Peru was home to the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and others. Even the Ringling Brothers Circus wintered there for a while. For 10 days each July, Peru celebrates the Circus City Festival with rides, crafts, food, games, and more. The highlight, however, is the live amateur circus that has performances throughout the festival. A unique and authentic experience that echoes the early heyday of the circus, this is a fun event not to be missed. Performers are locals, some of whom are direct descendants of professional performers in the earlier shows. Even if a visit is timed to occur outside of July, a visit to the small but impressive International Circus Hall of Fame might be worth the trip. Circus Hall of Fame is located 1.8 miles from Camp Ames. Grissom Air Museum: Located 7.6 miles from Camp Ames There are some great interactive displays inside the museum for the kids to sit inside the cockpits of mock ups for pictures and the planes throughout the grounds are well maintained and offer interesting facts. Great Air Museum Celebrating the Aviation History of Grissom Air Force Base. Miami County Museum: Located 3.6 miles from Camp Ames Cole Porter's custom 1955 Cadillac, circus carvings, a stagecoach, the World's Tallest Man's overalls, a fantastic collection of rifles, Clyde Beatty's lion tamer's outfit, lots of farm and pioneer items, Miami Indian relics. Mississinewa : Located 3 miles from Camp Ames Mississinewa Lake is a designed for flood control. That said, depending on rainfall during the summer, many recreational activities are available. Swimming at the beach, boating, and fishing. Nickel Plate Trail: Located 2.9 miles from Camp Ames This asphalt trail is one of the best in the State to ride or walk on!!! It keeps getting better because the trail keeps getting extended with more pathway added. The volunteers do a superb job up keeping this 50 mile path. Make this a to do for a beautiful Fall ride once the leaves begin to change. You'll be immersed in intense colors and wonderful woodsy sights and smells. Seven Pillars: Located 0.8 miles from Camp Ames This breathtaking formation along the Mississinewa River was created over the centuries as wind and water eroded the limestone, carving rounded buttresses and alcoves into the north bluff of the river. Seven Pillars Nature Preserve - Acres Land Trust - Located 0.3 miles from Camp Ames! This preserve on the south side of the Mississinewa River is named after the landmark 25-foot limestone pillars, also owned by ACRES, which are located on the north side of the river. On top of the bluff grow red cedar, Juneberry and shadbush. In the preserve are beech, maple and other trees, as well as open meadow. The Miami Nation continues to gather at the pillars. The preserve is 148 acres of woods open to the public to walk the woods. There is 1.8 miles of trail. PRESERVE RULES: As a preserve visitor, you are responsible for keeping these habitats undisturbed. Follow these rules to allow the preserve’s plants, wildlife and natural formations to thrive here, in place, for generations: Open Dawn til Dusk, Foot Traffic Only, Dogs Allowed, Always On Leash,Take Nothing, Leave Nothing, Stay On The Trails McClure’s Orchard/Winery: Located 9.8 miles from Camp Ames A small, family-owned and operated apple farm nestled in the rolling hills of northern Indiana, located an hour from Indianapolis. Currently growing 125 varieties of apples, which throughout the season are available for u-pick or already picked. Beginning Labor Day Weekend, ride the tractor and trolley through the Orchard, for tours and apple picking. Toward the end of September through October, the trolley will stop in the pumpkin patch for u-pick. There is no parking or admission fee, and no charge for the ride through the Orchard. More than apples and pumpkins, there’s a playground area and petting zoo for the kids (and the kiddos at heart). During September and October, saddle up a horse, and take a horse ride on the weekends for $1. On most weekends, there’s live music; so, be sure to check the website to see who is playing and which day. McClure’s has a café serving delicious food, made fresh daily. The apple dumplings are amazing! The adults in the group can also sample or enjoy a glass of McClure’s award-winning wine and hard cider. In 2019 a down town location was opened on the Wabash River featuring Wine Tasting just 3.4 miles from Camp Ames. Preslie Meadow: Located at Camp Ames Preslie Meadow is a acre wildflower habitat. Established in 2018. Paths are provided to walk and enjoy the beauty. An array of wildflowers can be seen at different times in the spring and summer months. Birds, butterflies, bunnies and deer benefit from the meadow. Photographers and admirers walk the paths and drive by all season. Visitors are welcome and ask not to pick the flowers. Named after the daughter of JR and Marla Dennis of Kokomo. Preslie Lynn Dennis passed from injuries sustained in a car accident on June 22, 2018. She was just short of her 18th birthday and ready to leave for boot camp to serve our country in the United States Army having already served in the National Guard. This multi-talented young lady left us all heart broken. Preslie Meadow lets her memory and beauty live on.
Pets
Full hookups
Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

9. Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

97%
(87)
Brookston, IN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Farmsite along Tippecanoe River. 15 minutes to Indiana Beach, canoeing, state park, golf, 5 towns, fishing, YMCA Camp Tecumseh and much more. You will not believe it until you see it. Fishing in the river requires a license. We know you will enjoy your stay and create memories forever.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Versailles State Park

10. Versailles State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Indiana · 220 sites
Discover Versailles State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Deam Lake State Recreation Area

11. Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%
(3)
State park in Indiana · 215 sites
Find your lake life vibes in southern Indiana.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Potato Creek State Park

12. Potato Creek State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Indiana · 365 sites
Discover the natural beauty of Potato Creek State Park and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yellowwood State Forest

13. Yellowwood State Forest

100%
(3)
State forest in Indiana · 90 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Yellowwood State Forest and its myriad outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Sherfick Farms

14. Sherfick Farms

95%
(157)
Noblesville, IN · 65 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Sherfick Farms has a 3.5acre lake and surrounded by Farm fields. Far enough from the city you can see the stars, but close enough for any of your last minute needs. Enjoy the open field and star lit skies.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

15. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%
(24)
Gary, IN · 2 sites
This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away. Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet 25 dollars for 2nd pet (75) 2 max pets
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Dirt Weapon Ranch

16. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%
(51)
Gosport, IN · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

17. Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

97%
(59)
Rome City, IN · 3 sites
You talk about social distancing Mirror Lake is the place for you. All of the Mirror Lake properties are private. There is 175 acres here at mirror lake and the lake is approximately 12 acres. With Amish farms and families all around. The Mirror Lake Bunkhouse has all amenities. You are welcome to cook over an open fire, use the grill or the small kitchen accessories provided. don’t forget the option is always available to go out to dinner with a restaurant only 4 miles away. Although we are located in the middle of the country. You can wake up to beautiful sunrises or take in breath taking sunset in the evening. The lake is a private lake owned by three property owners. Our Cabin # 2 “Old Phil” Is located on the west side of the lake in a 15 acre woods. About 1-1/2 miles away is Our cabin # 1 “Little Elk” Is located near the little Elkhart River. Nestled in its own 10 acre woods. Both of these properties are primitive ( no running water in an out house for a bathroom). Firewood is provided and there are trails in the woods to walk. The Mirror lake property has been a family farm for over 185 years. There is a family cemetery that dates to 1832. If you want to be around a lot of people in the fast track this is not the place for you. If you’re looking for peace, quiet, tranquil, social distance but still enjoyed this is the place for you!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Blue Water Lake

18. Blue Water Lake

94%
(58)
Montpelier, IN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Blue Water Lake is located next to the Salamonie River with fishing access in the lake or the river. Blue Water Lake was previously Baltes Stone Quarry deepest point 30 ft. Lime stone edged with a straight drop off in most places. Beach area available for swimming access. No lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk. Primitive camping available. Out house available. Less than a mile from Montpelier, a golf cart community. Small town still host Montpelier Speedway one of the last dirt tracks in Indiana. Races on most Saturday nights. You can also get a round of golf in at Bluewater Golf course 9 hole course located across the road from the lake. The land now covered by Montpelier used to be a part of the Native American Miami Nation's Godfroy Reserve. Giant Indian statue at our town center featured on Parks and Reaction TV Show.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fallen Tree Campground

19. Fallen Tree Campground

99%
(76)
Albion, IN · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Fallen Tree Co is located directly next to Chain O’Lakes State Park, were you can swim, hike, fish, kayak, etc.! Your space has access to a shared bathroom, shower, kitchen, dining room, living room, etc. Be sure to grab a coffee or a hot tea and walk our beautifully lit trails that will give you a sense of peace and maybe a bit of magic. The campground covers 7 acres and is partially wooded with some mature trees and lots of young forest. We are working hard to turn it all back into native land, one tree at a time. All sites are primitive with no electricity or running water. Fallen Tree also has chickens and geese! We would love to introduce you to all of our feathered friends.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Nighthawk Forest

20. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
Paoli, IN · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field