The best waterfall campgrounds near Crane, Indiana

Chasing waterfalls in Crane is a solid move for campers who want more than just a patch of grass. With over 530 campsites near falls, you’ll find options tucked along forested creeks and at the edge of quiet, mossy hollows. Expect sites where campfires are allowed, showers are on hand, and your dog is welcome. favorites like Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), The Timbercrest Ranch (17 reviews), and Nighthawk Forest (9 reviews) keep things simple but close to the water. Average price per night sits around $65, but you’ll see spots as low as $30. After setting up, you can hike along misty trails, swim at the base of falls, or saddle up for horseback riding. If you want a campsite where the sound of rushing water drowns out the rest of the world, Crane has you covered.

99% (738)

Top-rated campgrounds near Crane

Chasing waterfalls in Crane is a solid move for campers who want more than just a patch of grass. With over 530 campsites near falls, you’ll find options tucked along forested creeks and at the edge of quiet, mossy hollows. Expect sites where campfires are allowed, showers are on hand, and your dog is welcome. favorites like Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), The Timbercrest Ranch (17 reviews), and Nighthawk Forest (9 reviews) keep things simple but close to the water. Average price per night sits around $65, but you’ll see spots as low as $30. After setting up, you can hike along misty trails, swim at the base of falls, or saddle up for horseback riding. If you want a campsite where the sound of rushing water drowns out the rest of the world, Crane has you covered.

99% (738)

Top-rated campgrounds near Crane

1. Happy Hollow Homestead

99%

(908)

45mi from Crane · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

- Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana for 7 years. - Listed on Rachael Ray Magazine's "8 of America's Coolest Campgrounds" We offer a "Camping Cabin", The "Cozy Camping Cottage" or tent camping in Black Walnut Grove, in an open field, in the woods, or a shady grove. We like to interact with people or you can keep to yourself and have a quiet getaway in the woods. Sorry, but the tree house isn't available to rent since it is my home. I may rent it out in the future. Also in progress is the "Dome" We are on a solar powered, off the grid 30 acre homestead that has 24 acres of wooded land and 6 acres of groomed land. Come explore our land and relax in the "Tree Web", see the 2 story tree house that I live in, have fun on the tire swing, or just sit and enjoy all that nature has to offer. You can explore our interesting topography that has close to 100 foot of elevation changes, our (mostly) dry creek system that starts with 2 springs that drain into 3 sinkholes or walk 3 miles of trails (if you follow each trail from end to end). We love groups - Host your event here or have a group gathering with all your friends and family. We have spaces large enough to host hundreds of people. We welcome pets for camping, but no pets allow in the Camping Cabin. Also be aware that we have 2 friendly dogs on the land that roam freely. - 3.5 miles to Marengo Cave - 7 miles to the Blue River (canoes, rafting and swimming) - 30 minutes to Patoka Lake - 37 miles west of Louisville - 13 miles north of Interstate 64

2. The Timbercrest Ranch

98%

(25)

16mi from Crane · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

3. 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.

4. Owen-Putnam State Forest

69 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

5. 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

6. Events And Stays At Cataract Falls

38mi from Crane · 1 site · Lodging

Located in the Town of Cataract alongside the most spectacular waterfalls in the Midwest is the Cataract Falls Lodge. The lodge itself sleeps up to 16 with 5 beds and 3 sofa beds. Three individual units all connecting to one another allow privacy when needed and gatherings when wanted. Across from the lodge is the Cataract Falls Wedding Veranda; an indoor-outdoor space for hosting weddings, family reunions wellness retreats, and business functions for up to 60 people. The space For weddings, family gatherings, or business retreats; welcome to the Cataract Falls Lodge. Accommodations for up to 16 overnight guests with an indoor-outdoor event space to host up to 60 people. The lodge and surrounding property are set up for entire families or groups that love the outdoors and enjoy the amenities offered indoors. The lodge and Event Veranda are located at the entrance to the Cataract State Recreation Area. A short walk from the front door you are standing at one of the most magnificent waterfall features in the Midwest. Picture-taking opportunities both at the Falls and on the property are abundant. The lodge has three individual suites for privacy but with adjoining doors that adjoin one another for a family connection. Guest access When renting the entire Lodge you and your guests will have access to the entire property with the opportunity to rent the Cataract Falls Veranda for your special event.

7. McCormicks Creek State Park

100%

(5)

233 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Welcome to Indiana’s first state park, camping mecca since 1916.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Crane

Fish Creek Campground

21mi from Crane · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

100%

(6)

Hardin Ridge Campground

27mi from Crane · 200 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Rattlesnake Campground

27mi from Crane · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

100%

(5)

McCormicks Creek Campground

29mi from Crane · 233 sites · Tents, RVs · in McCormicks Creek State Park

Horse Campground

33mi from Crane · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Springs Valley Recreation Area

34mi from Crane · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Little Salt Creek Group Site

46mi from Crane · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Hoosier National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

V

Valerie

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

My husband, our 3 boys, and I stayed in the camping cabin for last minute, quick, weekend getaway. Kerry”s directions were clear, so we had no difficulty finding it. When we arrived, he met us near the front and showed us where we were staying. He showed us around and told the boys about the net, the pigs, and the rope swing. They couldn’t wait to start exploring, and even though it was cold outside, they had a blast playing and didn’t want to come inside. The cabin was clean and cozy. The bed was comfortable and the heater worked really well. Everything was just as described, and my only regret is that we only got to stay for one night. None of us were ready to leave. Kerry was friendly, very accommodating, and responded super quickly to messages. I definitely plan to make another trip here when we are able to stay longer.

J

Jen

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was a phenomenal host with prompt details messages about local hikes and cave expeditions. He was patience with our staggered arrival. The creativity that goes into how the land is cultivated is clear. The suspended string platform was so zen being surrounded by a perfect autumn mosaic. The puppies and pigs on the property were so friendly and polite. We will be back!

T

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was kind, helpful, and the communication was great! This was a beautiful and comfortable environment. We felt safe and welcomed here. The land is beautiful and there is plenty to explore. At night the stars really stand out, great place to sit out by the campfire. You might get so lucky to have a visit from Jersey (the neighborhood dog) who was very friendly and not at all aggressive.

Our new Tree Web. Hang out 15 feet up in the trees

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Host was very welcoming and accommodating to our time table. Beautiful setting

K

Kevin

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Stayed at the cabin with our 1 year old. Kerry was so nice to us, and we shared great conversations with him. He has an ever present smile and is so welcoming. The cabin was perfect for us and the property had everything we needed. His neighbor even let our little guy play with the pigs and chickens. The cabin was furnished and the water is delicious spring water right under the cabin. We visited Louisville for a day trip and Marengo cave on our way out back to STL. This property is a beautiful representation of the forested hills of southern Indiana and the mindset of a working homestead. Kerry is a do-it-yourself-er, and it’s awe inspiring to see what he and his neighbor have done to this piece of land. Thanks for having us, Kerry! Well come back once baby #2 is with us!

K

Kathryn

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We really enjoyed our time in the black walnut grove! I’ll be honest and say, we didn’t consider the implications of being in a walnut grove when leaves (and walnuts) are falling, and they fall from very tall trees. But we didn’t run into any issues with it, bedsides an occasional jump scare lol. It was quiet and private, while also having Kerry on property for any issues or questions we might have had. He was extremely accommodating and prompt with responses. I would gladly return to his property for another trip :)

Jamie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was very kind and has the most beautiful land! Friendly pups joined us for breakfast and even found us along the trails, guiding us along them. The sky net at night is so relaxing and I hope to see it expanded! We had a wonderful trip and cannot wait to come back with our littles next year! Thank you Kerry!

Jen

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Ghe property was beautiful and has a lot of really unique sleeping quarters, as well as some very unique little areas sprinkled throughout the property. Kerry was super nice and has a good sense of humor. He was very direct and helpful, and then left us to enjoy our time on his property. We didn't need to reach out, but he did leave his inbox open in case we needed anything during our stay. The camp site were the most spacious and spread out that I have personally come across, leaving plenty of privacy. We absolutely loved our stay here at the Homestead.

J

Jim

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Hollow Homestead

I was only on this wonderful Land for one evening & morning. It's beauty, calmness, & positive vibrations is impactful. Easy to find. Host are as cool as they come. Everything is clean, locatable, & it's a safe & comfortable space. Artist, creative thinkers, and ponderers, will immediately be inspired upon arrival!

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry was so kind and helpful. The property is beautiful and well-maintained and has a couple outhouses and shower. We had plenty of room at our site and a fire pit. The giant rope net they have up in the trees is so cool, we had a lot of fun taking pictures up there. Definitely recommend this campsite, everything was perfect!

J

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Happy Hollow Homestead

The host was friendly and the space was very quiet.

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.

R

Rachel

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

My trip was wonderful!! Kerry was lovely and accommodating; I felt very comfortable being there and really enjoyed the privacy of the site as well. Kerry was great about letting me know what would be going on in the area during my stay. I’m also very excited about the maple syrup!!

R

Rachel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Once again, we had a fantastic stay on Kerry's beautiful property! Tried out the cabin this time and it was wonderful to immediately start relaxing when we arrived! The cabin was so cozy and inviting.

Mathew

September 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Wonderful site, host was helpful warm welcoming and a pleasure to chat with. Absolutely can recommend staying here.

J

JimandCathleen

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Nighthawk Forest

Lovely place. Had it to ourselves. Quiet. Bathroom clean. Running water. Great night sky.

Walking the path to the barn/babatjeoo (can’t see it from the campsite)

M

Megan

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Timbercrest Ranch

Great camping spot! Hosts were very responsive and helpful. Spot is beautiful and private! We stayed by the pavilion & pond. The property is big so I imagine even if others are there, there would still be plenty of privacy. The bathroom (on the back side of the barn) was nice to have - 3 min walk. Kids fished & caught/released a bunch, hung the hammocks, made dinner/breakfast using the grate over the fire. Would love to come back again!

K

Kate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We tent camped under the trees and it was fantastic. We had plenty of privacy, easy access to a bathroom, and a small water spigot by the site. Kerry is a great host and checked in with us when our walk took us by his workshop. If you want a low-key and relaxing escape, this is a great place to find it.