The best lakeside camping near Crane

·

Crane isn’t for campers who want to stay on dry ground. Over 1,600 options dot the lakeshores here, so if you dream of casting a line at sunrise or cannonballing in before breakfast, you’re in luck. Nightly rates average $40, with plenty dipping as low as $25. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly policies are the norm, not the exception. Want a local favorite? Happy Campers Campground (109 reviews) is known for its laid-back vibe and easy water access. Hill Springs Campground (48 reviews) delivers quiet mornings and good fishing, while Dirt Weapon Ranch (22 reviews) is the spot for swimming and a bit of adventure. Bring your fishing rod, your swimsuit, and maybe a kayak. You’ll need them.

96% (242) 34 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Crane

Happy Campers Campground

1. Happy Campers Campground

99%
(191)
42mi from Crane · 7 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Dirt Weapon Ranch

2. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%
(41)
33mi from Crane · 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
from 
$20
 / night
Hill Springs Campground

3. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(68)
33mi from Crane · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Hill Springs Campground is nestled on our 120-acre family farm, and we’re proud to be the third generation to care for this little piece of paradise. Tucked away in the heart of 'God’s country,' our campground offers peace and quiet, miles from the nearest town. The rolling hills provide hay for our cows and wood for the stove, and we take great pride in sharing this beautiful spot with you. Each site offers the chance to unwind by the pond, pick wild blackberries, or hike through our woods. Fire pits are available at all sites. Our sites are simple—no water, electricity, or internet—but generators are welcome, and we provide a toilet on-site. Please remember to pack out all your trash, including cigarette butts. For a glimpse of what to expect, check out a few videos of the campground on our Facebook page, 'hillspringcampground.' We’re also close to plenty of activities: Patoka Lake is just 3 miles away, with 8,800 acres of water, 26,000 sq. feet of land, and a variety of outdoor fun—boating, fishing, hiking, and even a winery. Historic French Lick and West Baden are 16 miles away, offering everything from casinos to a scenic railway, golf courses, a spa, a wildlife park, and the stunning West Baden Springs Hotel, known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' The city of Jasper is 14 miles away, with a charming riverwalk, museums, parks, and food trucks to explore. The small town of Dubois is just 4.5 miles away, with local taverns, a gas station, and a True Value store. At Hill Springs, you can be as close or as far away from the action as you want to be. We’re excited to share this experience with you and welcome your feedback as we start this journey with Hipcamp. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Bryan and Nicole
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Martin State Forest

4. Martin State Forest

26 sites · Shoals, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Martin State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Shakamak State Park

5. Shakamak State Park

100%
(1)
207 sites · Coalmont, Indiana
Discover Shakamak State Park's serene lakes and lush campgrounds.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Painter Creek Camp Resort

6. Painter Creek Camp Resort

79%
(7)
35mi from Crane · 2 sites · RVs
Tucked back off of State Rd 145 in French Lick, IN our property offers year-round camping & full 50-amp hook ups available on all sites. A covered outdoor lounge, and a basketball court are available for guests to use, as well as seasonal bathhouse and laundry facility ($4 a load). We are only 1 mile from the Painter Creek Boat Ramp, and within a 15 min drive to Patoka Lake State Park, The French Lick-West Baden Resort, and The Pete Dye Golf Course!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Nighthawk Forest

7. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
35mi from Crane · 3 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
from 
$30
 / night
Stone of Hope Campground

8. Stone of Hope Campground

100%
(1)
46mi from Crane · 2 sites · Tents
A private lake nestled in the woods with trails throughout Peaceful, wild life - a real opportunity to experience nature at its best
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Spring Mill State Park

9. Spring Mill State Park

100%
(2)
224 sites · Mitchell, Indiana
See how pioneers lived and learn about outer space at this southern Indiana park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monroe Lake

10. 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
Yellowwood State Forest

11. 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
Patoka Lake

12. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Morgan Monroe State Forest

13. Morgan Monroe State Forest

67%
(3)
35 sites · Painted Hills, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Morgan Monroe State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Ferdinand State Forest

14. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

15. 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
Jackson-Washington State Forest

16. Jackson-Washington State Forest

48 sites · Little York, Indiana
Discover the rugged beauty of Jackson-Washington State Forest.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table

Crane isn’t for campers who want to stay on dry ground. Over 1,600 options dot the lakeshores here, so if you dream of casting a line at sunrise or cannonballing in before breakfast, you’re in luck. Nightly rates average $40, with plenty dipping as low as $25. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly policies are the norm, not the exception. Want a local favorite? Happy Campers Campground (109 reviews) is known for its laid-back vibe and easy water access. Hill Springs Campground (48 reviews) delivers quiet mornings and good fishing, while Dirt Weapon Ranch (22 reviews) is the spot for swimming and a bit of adventure. Bring your fishing rod, your swimsuit, and maybe a kayak. You’ll need them.

96% (242) 34 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Crane

Happy Campers Campground

1. Happy Campers Campground

99%
(191)
42mi from Crane · 7 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Dirt Weapon Ranch

2. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%
(41)
33mi from Crane · 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
from 
$20
 / night
Hill Springs Campground

3. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(68)
33mi from Crane · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Hill Springs Campground is nestled on our 120-acre family farm, and we’re proud to be the third generation to care for this little piece of paradise. Tucked away in the heart of 'God’s country,' our campground offers peace and quiet, miles from the nearest town. The rolling hills provide hay for our cows and wood for the stove, and we take great pride in sharing this beautiful spot with you. Each site offers the chance to unwind by the pond, pick wild blackberries, or hike through our woods. Fire pits are available at all sites. Our sites are simple—no water, electricity, or internet—but generators are welcome, and we provide a toilet on-site. Please remember to pack out all your trash, including cigarette butts. For a glimpse of what to expect, check out a few videos of the campground on our Facebook page, 'hillspringcampground.' We’re also close to plenty of activities: Patoka Lake is just 3 miles away, with 8,800 acres of water, 26,000 sq. feet of land, and a variety of outdoor fun—boating, fishing, hiking, and even a winery. Historic French Lick and West Baden are 16 miles away, offering everything from casinos to a scenic railway, golf courses, a spa, a wildlife park, and the stunning West Baden Springs Hotel, known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' The city of Jasper is 14 miles away, with a charming riverwalk, museums, parks, and food trucks to explore. The small town of Dubois is just 4.5 miles away, with local taverns, a gas station, and a True Value store. At Hill Springs, you can be as close or as far away from the action as you want to be. We’re excited to share this experience with you and welcome your feedback as we start this journey with Hipcamp. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Bryan and Nicole
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Martin State Forest

4. Martin State Forest

26 sites · Shoals, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Martin State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Shakamak State Park

5. Shakamak State Park

100%
(1)
207 sites · Coalmont, Indiana
Discover Shakamak State Park's serene lakes and lush campgrounds.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Painter Creek Camp Resort

6. Painter Creek Camp Resort

79%
(7)
35mi from Crane · 2 sites · RVs
Tucked back off of State Rd 145 in French Lick, IN our property offers year-round camping & full 50-amp hook ups available on all sites. A covered outdoor lounge, and a basketball court are available for guests to use, as well as seasonal bathhouse and laundry facility ($4 a load). We are only 1 mile from the Painter Creek Boat Ramp, and within a 15 min drive to Patoka Lake State Park, The French Lick-West Baden Resort, and The Pete Dye Golf Course!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Nighthawk Forest

7. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
35mi from Crane · 3 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
from 
$30
 / night
Stone of Hope Campground

8. Stone of Hope Campground

100%
(1)
46mi from Crane · 2 sites · Tents
A private lake nestled in the woods with trails throughout Peaceful, wild life - a real opportunity to experience nature at its best
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Spring Mill State Park

9. Spring Mill State Park

100%
(2)
224 sites · Mitchell, Indiana
See how pioneers lived and learn about outer space at this southern Indiana park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monroe Lake

10. 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
Yellowwood State Forest

11. 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
Patoka Lake

12. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Morgan Monroe State Forest

13. Morgan Monroe State Forest

67%
(3)
35 sites · Painted Hills, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Morgan Monroe State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Ferdinand State Forest

14. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

15. 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
Jackson-Washington State Forest

16. Jackson-Washington State Forest

48 sites · Little York, Indiana
Discover the rugged beauty of Jackson-Washington State Forest.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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