The best forest camping near Decatur

·

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Decatur, Indiana, Hipcamp has got you covered with over 330 options to choose from. With prices ranging from as low as $15 per night, you'll find the perfect camping spot to suit your budget. For those seeking top-rated campsites, check out Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Blooming Bus Farms (82 reviews). Whether you're into wildlife watching, whitewater paddling, or wind sports, you'll have plenty of activities to keep you entertained. And with popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash facilities, your camping experience will be comfortable and convenient.

98% (240) 554 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Decatur

The Firefly Nest

1. The Firefly Nest

100%
(11)
13mi from Decatur · 1 site
The property is a "Glamp Site" featuring an astral bell tent with a queen and 2 twin beds with a table. The site also includes 2 hammocks, a picnic table, firepit with wood, and *Full* bathroom with flush toilet, and hot water shower. The location is about 800' into the woods on a narrow winding path. The property also features a 1/4mile walkimg path that goes from the camp site to the creek. Located just outside of Fort Wayne away from the hustle and bustle but close to activities and amenities! New for 2026 Season! -Winding 0.5 mile walking trail from the rear of the site to the creek beyond the woods and back. -large utility sink outside the rest room for dishwashing etc. -Bocce ball game set.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
River Camp Fort Wayne

2. River Camp Fort Wayne

98%
(219)
16mi from Decatur · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 are 2 porta potties 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 on-demand hot-water shower at bathroom, with a water hose available as well. On-demand hot water heaters provide hotter water at a low water pressure, and cooler water at full blast. We do provide a large trash bin near the porta potties for trash disposal. DO NOT throw trash into fire pits or burn barrels in the woods. 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 maintenance 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: (we do not rent or provide kayaks, canoes or bikes onsite) fwoutfitters.com/#
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$33
 / night
The Fun Farm

3. The Fun Farm

97%
(55)
17mi from Decatur · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Ouabache State Park

4. Ouabache State Park

State park 12mi from Decatur · 124 sites
Discover Ouabache State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Salamonie River State Forest

5. Salamonie River State Forest

State forest 36mi from Decatur · 36 sites
Discover the natural beauty of Salamonie River State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Gravel's End

6. Gravel's End

90%
(10)
46mi from Decatur · 1 site
Bare-bones camping! This secluded spot allows dry camping in a beautiful 9-acre woods. A winding gravel drive takes you to the heart of the forest and away from civilization. Fully self-contained RVs/camper vans can park level and find a large clearing to enjoy the sounds and sites of native Hoosier flora and fauna. This is a single lane with no turn-around for lengthy vehicles. Our family’s desire is to eventually live on the site and some signs of development can be found, but our first priority is the tedious but rewarding task of removing the non-native species (Burning Bush, Winter Creeper, Asian Honeysuckle, Garlic Mustard, Multiflora Rose) to allow for the native woods and understory to thrive. We are a few years into this process and have already seen major gains in the health of the woods, thanks to the guidance we received from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Limited use of the site ensures the native animal presence is not overly disturbed and preserves a true experience for campers to enjoy. Fill your fresh water tank before arriving and dump your black water tank at a dump station when you’re done. Gray water may be dumped onsite ONLY if you are using earth friendly soaps/ cleaners. Pre-cut and dried firewood for your enjoyment can be arranged ahead of time for a fee. Kindling can be gathered in the cleared areas and along the trails, but we ask that you do not enter non-cleared areas of the woods as this is disruptive to the plant and animal life. There is a one party limit so you may enjoy your nature experience in privacy. With two connecting trails carefully carved into the woods, you are sure to spot signs of creatures like red squirrels, chipmunks, possum, rabbits, garter snakes, frogs, toads, and deer. This property is a bird watchers delight! In the past year, we have observed Blue Jays, Cardinals, Goldfinches, Carolina Wrens, Baltimore Orioles, Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, Finches, Downy Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, and Pileated Woodpeckers. Black Vultures and Red-Tailed Hawks are a common sight, and you may hear Owls during your overnight stay. Despite the feeling of total privacy, this site is minutes from Muncie, a mid-sized city in Delaware county. Muncie is home to Ball State University, which hosts concerts, speakers, and other programs. Muncie boasts an active downtown with shops, restaurants and breweries. IU Ball Hospital, an award-winning medical facility, is a 15-minute drive. Ruoff Music Center, a beloved outdoor music venue that provides live entertainment throughout the concert season, is less than an hour from the site. Indianapolis, a little over an hour drive, offers vast entertainment opportunities.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

7. Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

100%
(34)
48mi from Decatur · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
This 80 acre farmland has been in the family for 6 generations. Some of the land is still used for farming to this day. The old barn, built in the late 1800's still stands. Now there is also a motocross track on the property. The track is only open occasionally. Enjoy easy trails in the woods, feed fish in the pond, and if you would like to see our goats and chicken we can arrange a time to introduce you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

8. StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

100%
(5)
40mi from Decatur · 10 sites
Screenhouse where you can enjoy a bug free meal, bench and there is a table and chairs.. LIGHTED PATHWAYS THAT ARE COLORFUL.. Enjoy walking the pathways at night, There are signs for your reading pleasure, some funny and some to think about.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Living Waters Resort

9. Living Waters Resort

90%
(5)
47mi from Decatur · 20 sites
This property has everything you could possibly want. 4 acre private lake stocked for good fishing. Western portion of the property is surrounded by the White River stretching north. Sparrow creek borders the South edge of property. Several spots for camping under the trees near a full service bathhouse. For those that want to see the stars; you can set up north of Mills Lake and experience little to no light pollution! Fishing on Mills Lake does not require fishing permit. Large Pavillion for shelter/picnics/activities. Single Site is limited to 1 Tent up to 4 Adults. Conveniently located between Muncie and Winchester. Close enough for a short drive to the city and far enough to be in the serene country setting. Less than 2 miles from Winchester Speedway!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Salamonie Lake

10. Salamonie Lake

Park 37mi from Decatur · 333 sites
Salamonie Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers Alike.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Loramie State Park

11. Lake Loramie State Park

State park 44mi from Decatur · 21 sites
No kayak? No problem. Lake Loramie State Park provides rentals for everything from bikes to canoes, and you'll want to take advantage of it to get the most out of your stay. Paddle past patches of water lilies shaded by bald cypress trees, where the beauty here has long been preserved. Hikers will enjoy trekking over to Blackberry Island, where they can catch a glimpse of owls and woodpeckers nesting in their native habitat. A large variety of fish inhabiting the lake and seasonal hunting forays may also appeal to your wild side. Come winter, return for the cross country skiing tournament on the Little Turtle Trace trail, or bring a pair of skates and a sled for some awesome frosty activities. With ice boating available as well, you'll never want to be without a paddle here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Decatur, Indiana, Hipcamp has got you covered with over 330 options to choose from. With prices ranging from as low as $15 per night, you'll find the perfect camping spot to suit your budget. For those seeking top-rated campsites, check out Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Blooming Bus Farms (82 reviews). Whether you're into wildlife watching, whitewater paddling, or wind sports, you'll have plenty of activities to keep you entertained. And with popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash facilities, your camping experience will be comfortable and convenient.

98% (240) 554 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Decatur

The Firefly Nest

1. The Firefly Nest

100%
(11)
13mi from Decatur · 1 site
The property is a "Glamp Site" featuring an astral bell tent with a queen and 2 twin beds with a table. The site also includes 2 hammocks, a picnic table, firepit with wood, and *Full* bathroom with flush toilet, and hot water shower. The location is about 800' into the woods on a narrow winding path. The property also features a 1/4mile walkimg path that goes from the camp site to the creek. Located just outside of Fort Wayne away from the hustle and bustle but close to activities and amenities! New for 2026 Season! -Winding 0.5 mile walking trail from the rear of the site to the creek beyond the woods and back. -large utility sink outside the rest room for dishwashing etc. -Bocce ball game set.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
River Camp Fort Wayne

2. River Camp Fort Wayne

98%
(219)
16mi from Decatur · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 are 2 porta potties 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 on-demand hot-water shower at bathroom, with a water hose available as well. On-demand hot water heaters provide hotter water at a low water pressure, and cooler water at full blast. We do provide a large trash bin near the porta potties for trash disposal. DO NOT throw trash into fire pits or burn barrels in the woods. 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 maintenance 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: (we do not rent or provide kayaks, canoes or bikes onsite) fwoutfitters.com/#
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$33
 / night
The Fun Farm

3. The Fun Farm

97%
(55)
17mi from Decatur · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Ouabache State Park

4. Ouabache State Park

State park 12mi from Decatur · 124 sites
Discover Ouabache State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Salamonie River State Forest

5. Salamonie River State Forest

State forest 36mi from Decatur · 36 sites
Discover the natural beauty of Salamonie River State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Gravel's End

6. Gravel's End

90%
(10)
46mi from Decatur · 1 site
Bare-bones camping! This secluded spot allows dry camping in a beautiful 9-acre woods. A winding gravel drive takes you to the heart of the forest and away from civilization. Fully self-contained RVs/camper vans can park level and find a large clearing to enjoy the sounds and sites of native Hoosier flora and fauna. This is a single lane with no turn-around for lengthy vehicles. Our family’s desire is to eventually live on the site and some signs of development can be found, but our first priority is the tedious but rewarding task of removing the non-native species (Burning Bush, Winter Creeper, Asian Honeysuckle, Garlic Mustard, Multiflora Rose) to allow for the native woods and understory to thrive. We are a few years into this process and have already seen major gains in the health of the woods, thanks to the guidance we received from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Limited use of the site ensures the native animal presence is not overly disturbed and preserves a true experience for campers to enjoy. Fill your fresh water tank before arriving and dump your black water tank at a dump station when you’re done. Gray water may be dumped onsite ONLY if you are using earth friendly soaps/ cleaners. Pre-cut and dried firewood for your enjoyment can be arranged ahead of time for a fee. Kindling can be gathered in the cleared areas and along the trails, but we ask that you do not enter non-cleared areas of the woods as this is disruptive to the plant and animal life. There is a one party limit so you may enjoy your nature experience in privacy. With two connecting trails carefully carved into the woods, you are sure to spot signs of creatures like red squirrels, chipmunks, possum, rabbits, garter snakes, frogs, toads, and deer. This property is a bird watchers delight! In the past year, we have observed Blue Jays, Cardinals, Goldfinches, Carolina Wrens, Baltimore Orioles, Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, Finches, Downy Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, and Pileated Woodpeckers. Black Vultures and Red-Tailed Hawks are a common sight, and you may hear Owls during your overnight stay. Despite the feeling of total privacy, this site is minutes from Muncie, a mid-sized city in Delaware county. Muncie is home to Ball State University, which hosts concerts, speakers, and other programs. Muncie boasts an active downtown with shops, restaurants and breweries. IU Ball Hospital, an award-winning medical facility, is a 15-minute drive. Ruoff Music Center, a beloved outdoor music venue that provides live entertainment throughout the concert season, is less than an hour from the site. Indianapolis, a little over an hour drive, offers vast entertainment opportunities.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

7. Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

100%
(34)
48mi from Decatur · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
This 80 acre farmland has been in the family for 6 generations. Some of the land is still used for farming to this day. The old barn, built in the late 1800's still stands. Now there is also a motocross track on the property. The track is only open occasionally. Enjoy easy trails in the woods, feed fish in the pond, and if you would like to see our goats and chicken we can arrange a time to introduce you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

8. StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

100%
(5)
40mi from Decatur · 10 sites
Screenhouse where you can enjoy a bug free meal, bench and there is a table and chairs.. LIGHTED PATHWAYS THAT ARE COLORFUL.. Enjoy walking the pathways at night, There are signs for your reading pleasure, some funny and some to think about.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Living Waters Resort

9. Living Waters Resort

90%
(5)
47mi from Decatur · 20 sites
This property has everything you could possibly want. 4 acre private lake stocked for good fishing. Western portion of the property is surrounded by the White River stretching north. Sparrow creek borders the South edge of property. Several spots for camping under the trees near a full service bathhouse. For those that want to see the stars; you can set up north of Mills Lake and experience little to no light pollution! Fishing on Mills Lake does not require fishing permit. Large Pavillion for shelter/picnics/activities. Single Site is limited to 1 Tent up to 4 Adults. Conveniently located between Muncie and Winchester. Close enough for a short drive to the city and far enough to be in the serene country setting. Less than 2 miles from Winchester Speedway!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Salamonie Lake

10. Salamonie Lake

Park 37mi from Decatur · 333 sites
Salamonie Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers Alike.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Loramie State Park

11. Lake Loramie State Park

State park 44mi from Decatur · 21 sites
No kayak? No problem. Lake Loramie State Park provides rentals for everything from bikes to canoes, and you'll want to take advantage of it to get the most out of your stay. Paddle past patches of water lilies shaded by bald cypress trees, where the beauty here has long been preserved. Hikers will enjoy trekking over to Blackberry Island, where they can catch a glimpse of owls and woodpeckers nesting in their native habitat. A large variety of fish inhabiting the lake and seasonal hunting forays may also appeal to your wild side. Come winter, return for the cross country skiing tournament on the Little Turtle Trace trail, or bring a pair of skates and a sled for some awesome frosty activities. With ice boating available as well, you'll never want to be without a paddle here.
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

Top national parks and forests near Decatur, IN