The best waterside campgrounds near Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis serves up over 1,900 waterside camping options, most averaging $40 a night, with some spots dropping as low as $25. You’ll find campsites along creeks, tucked beside fishing holes, and within earshot of lazy rivers. Top picks like Marick Acres (327 reviews), Sherfick Farms (110 reviews), and Hidden Valley Fun Time Happy Camp! (81 reviews) get high marks for easy access to water, shady trees, and quick escapes from city noise. Most campgrounds allow campfires, welcome pets, and offer toilets—no need to rough it. Swim, hike, or just kick back and watch for herons and turtles gliding by. If you want to camp near the water and stay close to Indianapolis, this is where you start.

96% (946)

Top-rated campgrounds near Indianapolis

1. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

41mi from Indianapolis · 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. 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

Indianapolis serves up over 1,900 waterside camping options, most averaging $40 a night, with some spots dropping as low as $25. You’ll find campsites along creeks, tucked beside fishing holes, and within earshot of lazy rivers. Top picks like Marick Acres (327 reviews), Sherfick Farms (110 reviews), and Hidden Valley Fun Time Happy Camp! (81 reviews) get high marks for easy access to water, shady trees, and quick escapes from city noise. Most campgrounds allow campfires, welcome pets, and offer toilets—no need to rough it. Swim, hike, or just kick back and watch for herons and turtles gliding by. If you want to camp near the water and stay close to Indianapolis, this is where you start.

96% (946)

Top-rated campgrounds near Indianapolis

1. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

41mi from Indianapolis · 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. 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

Public campgrounds near Indianapolis

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

50mi from Indianapolis · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

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!