Beach Camping Near Columbus, Indiana, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a beachside camping adventure near Columbus, Indiana? We've got you covered with 17 options that cater to your beach-loving heart. From stunning ocean views to sandy shores, you'll find the perfect spot to soak up the sun and surf. Among our top campsites in the area are MoonLight Grove Farm (67 reviews), Hidden Valley River Camp (43 reviews), and Hill Springs Campground (16 reviews). So whether you're into swimming, surfing, or off-roading, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Plus, with prices starting as low as $25 and an average of $35 per night, you can enjoy the beach without breaking the bank. And don't worry about basic amenities, we've got showers, toilets, and potable water covered. So grab your towel, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to have a blast on the beach!

99% (36)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a beachside camping adventure near Columbus, Indiana? We've got you covered with 17 options that cater to your beach-loving heart. From stunning ocean views to sandy shores, you'll find the perfect spot to soak up the sun and surf. Among our top campsites in the area are MoonLight Grove Farm (67 reviews), Hidden Valley River Camp (43 reviews), and Hill Springs Campground (16 reviews). So whether you're into swimming, surfing, or off-roading, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Plus, with prices starting as low as $25 and an average of $35 per night, you can enjoy the beach without breaking the bank. And don't worry about basic amenities, we've got showers, toilets, and potable water covered. So grab your towel, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to have a blast on the beach!

99% (36)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus

1. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

40mi from Columbus · 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.

2. Heartland Resort

43mi from Columbus · 41 sites

Heartland Resort stands out as a serene oasis in Central Indiana, just a short 20-minute drive east of Indianapolis. Nestled in a picturesque setting, our campground offers a peaceful retreat with full hook-ups suitable for RVs of all sizes. Whether you're planning a quick overnight stay, a weekend getaway, or an extended visit for a week or even a month, Heartland Resort is the perfect destination. For those looking to immerse themselves in the camping experience, seasonal stays are also available. We pride ourselves on providing a welcoming atmosphere and are dedicated to accommodating your needs. Come and discover the charm of Heartland RV Resort, where relaxation and adventure await!

3. Hoosier National Forest

88%

(13)

252 sites · Paoli, Indiana

See the wilderness of southern Indiana from the Ohio River to just south of Bloomington.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

4. Brown County State Park

100%

(21)

610 sites · Nashville, Indiana

Mountains in Indiana? Welcome to the Little Smokies.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Yellowwood State Forest

100%

(3)

90 sites · Nashville, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Yellowwood State Forest and its myriad outdoor activities.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

6. Morgan Monroe State Forest

67%

(3)

35 sites · Painted Hills, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Morgan Monroe State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

7. Monroe Lake

92%

(8)

312 sites · Smithville Sanders, Indiana

At Monroe Lake, your trip will be about as deluxe as a state park stay gets. Lounge your days away at the Fourwinds Resort & Marina, where the crisp linens and mini-fridges will spoil you into oblivion. Even if you're looking to rough it a little on the campgrounds, you'll still have access to a vast array of activities. Two different beaches perfect for swimming, boat rentals, and several beautiful hiking trails highlight the natural beauty in the area. Whether you're on the hunt for waterfowl or want to waterski on the gorgeous sparkling waters, your favorite outdoor activity is likely found here. Did we mention there's a Marina called The Pleasure Craft? Just soak that in for a minute. No more information needed.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

8. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%

(6)

150 sites · Vallonia, Indiana

Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

9. Hardy Lake

162 sites · Deputy, Indiana

Discover Hardy Lake's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

10. Jackson-Washington State Forest

48 sites · Little York, Indiana

Discover the rugged beauty of Jackson-Washington State Forest.

Campfires

Toilets

Picnic table

11. Versailles State Park

100%

(3)

220 sites · Versailles, Indiana

Discover Versailles State Park's rich history and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Clifty Falls State Park

86%

(9)

164 sites · Madison, Indiana

With a name like this, the outdoor fun is obvious.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Columbus

Little Salt Creek Group Site

15mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Hoosier National Forest

100%

(21)

Brown County Campground

19mi from Columbus · 610 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brown County State Park

100%

(3)

Yellowwood Campground

23mi from Columbus · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yellowwood State Forest

100%

(1)

Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground

28mi from Columbus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

Mason Ridge Campground

28mi from Columbus · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

100%

(1)

Oak Ridge Campground

28mi from Columbus · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

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

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

28mi from Columbus · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

100%

(6)

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

29mi from Columbus · 150 sites · Tents, RVs · in Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%

(6)

Hardin Ridge Campground

31mi from Columbus · 200 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Hardy Lake Campground

32mi from Columbus · 162 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hardy Lake

Jackson-Washington Campground

35mi from Columbus · 48 sites · in Jackson-Washington State Forest

100%

(3)

Versailles Campground

39mi from Columbus · 220 sites · Tents, RVs · in Versailles State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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.

M

Michael

June 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Dirt Weapon Ranch

This place is just fantastic! Excellent sites and amenities, the property was beautiful and well-maintained, and it was very peaceful. The pictures really don't do justice to how beautiful it is. The owners were very helpful and welcoming, but give you your space as well which is always appreciated. I'll be back with my kids soon!