The best family-friendly campgrounds near Lake Santee, Indiana

Looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Lake Santee, Indiana? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 380 family-friendly options available, you'll have no problem finding the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin, a spacious RV site, or a cozy tent spot, Hipcamp has got you covered. And with popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash services, you'll have all the comforts of home. Plus, you can enjoy activities like climbing, boating, and off-roading (OHV) to make your trip even more exciting. Don't just take our word for it - check out top campsites like Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Hidden Lake Farm (359 reviews), and Hones Pointe (352 reviews) to see why campers love them. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure with Hipcamp!

99% (548)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Lake Santee, Indiana? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 380 family-friendly options available, you'll have no problem finding the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin, a spacious RV site, or a cozy tent spot, Hipcamp has got you covered. And with popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash services, you'll have all the comforts of home. Plus, you can enjoy activities like climbing, boating, and off-roading (OHV) to make your trip even more exciting. Don't just take our word for it - check out top campsites like Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Hidden Lake Farm (359 reviews), and Hones Pointe (352 reviews) to see why campers love them. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure with Hipcamp!

99% (548)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cattail Springs

99%

(37)

50mi from Lake Santee · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Anderson, IN

Welcome to Cattail Springs! Nestled on nine wooded acres conveniently located just one mile off I-69 in Daleville, Indiana, this relaxing and peaceful property also features a stunning five-acre pond. The pond is fully stocked with a variety of fish, inviting anglers of all skill levels to cast a line. We do ask that you respect the catch and release rule. Surrounded by trees, this former stone quarry feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy peaceful mornings by the water, afternoons filled with outdoor activities and quiet evenings by the fire pit under a starlit sky. Keep an eye out for deer, our resident blue herons, songbirds, ducks and other woodland creatures. Up to two dogs are permitted. Pet waste must be properly bagged and thrown away and dogs must be leashed when not at your immediate campsite. Enjoy free wifi to stream your favorite shows or connect to the office. The level of interstate travel noise that can be heard varies since the campground is within a mile of I-69. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS + CONVENIENCES (Anderson, Daleville + Chesterfield are all within minutes of the campground) Showers and gray water disposal: Pilot, 15876 W. Commerce Road, Daleville, IN 47334. Laundry at EZ Wash: 323 Anderson Road, Anderson, IN 46017. Badger Bait and Tackle: 121 W. Plum Street, Chesterfield, IN 46017. Firewood: purchase from us for a donation or at local gas stations. Groceries or supplies: Harvest Market (205 Federal Drive, Chesterfield, IN 46017). Exit 226, one exit south, offers Meijer, WalMart, pet food stores and more. Harrah's Hoosier Park Casino Racetrack: horse racing and gaming (4500 Dan Patch Circle, Anderson, IN 46013). Mounds State Park: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017, two miles from the property, features beautiful trails as well as ten earthworks built by the Adena-Hopewell people, prehistoric Indians. Entrance fee is typically $7. Dining: exit 234 offers traditional fast food options (Starbucks, Wawa, Wendy's, McDonald's, Subway, Wendy's, Culvers, Pizza King, Bird's Smokehouse and more). Exit 226, one exit south of Cattail Springs, offers a robust variety of restaurants, including McAlister's, Chic-fil-A, Montana Mike's, Texas Roadhouse, Chipotle, Olive Garden, Cracker Barrel and more.

2. Quiet Creek Valley

98%

(164)

37mi from Lake Santee · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Camden, OH

Welcome to our serene oasis in Preble County! Our property features wide-open farmland leading back to a tranquil forested creek, nestled in a valley teeming with wildlife. Enjoy playing in the creek, exploring the woods, and immersing yourself in nature's beauty. This property is in a flood plain and you could be moved to higher ground. Feel free to message us if you have questions. We offer several primitive campsites, allowing you to choose whether to camp solo or with a group. If you're interested in exploring the farm and trails on the upper half of the property, we would love to show you around.

3. Carriage House Farm

95%

(111)

33mi from Lake Santee · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · North Bend, OH

We are an Ohio Century Farm located in historic North Bend, Ohio. Single-family owned since 1855, our farm is located only 20 minutes outside of downtown Cincinnati but feels as if you are in the country side. Our campsites are located within a easy 5 minute walk of our on-farm distillery, winery, market, and food truck. Part of our 300 acre property is part of the conservation easement that makes up the "Oxbow," a migratory bird and waterfowl area that is popular among birdwatchers in the spring and autumn seasons. We have a large eagle population along with a host of other raptors.

4. Away at Green Hill

100%

(327)

44mi from Lake Santee · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Union, KY

Fall is finally here. It's so Welcomed - summer was brutal - either 95 degrees/95% humidity or raging storms! So cool temps & beautiful leaves are looking good. NOTE: many weekends are already booked through Oct so get yours booked asap Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, Indiana the Ohio River, this 27 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there are wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends, and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive-in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Standard amenities include privacy - we only book two sites at any time, which are far apart from each other and surrounded by woods. Also, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). And onsite firewood purchased during booking or while onsite. Site 1 - Open Sky accommodates solo or the group, tents to small campers. It comes with extra amenities: hammock, trampoline, (badminton & cornhole by request). It's also closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, outhouse. Site 2 - Gobbler's Knob is a more cozy space - a small rise surrounded by forest. A short walk from the outhouse and firewood shed. It can accommodate pop-ups, small pull-behinds, tents, hammocks. Vehicles can park on site or park at site entrance, just 50'. Site 3 - Henry's Holler. By request only. For 4WD overlanders only. Read site description in full before requesting. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing about in tiny riverfront towns minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River,, historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology" or the Creation Museum. Do nothing or do something.

5. Sugar Maple Grove Campground

98%

(74)

22mi from Lake Santee · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Brownsville, IN

Nice secluded campsites with lots of space and privacy. Fire wood available for $5 for a bundle or you can bring your own, also have excellent cell phone service unlike most state parks in the area. Picnic tables, fire pits and water available and also have a portable idc tote so we can fill your tank at any site. 30 amp and 20 amp outlets at rv sites 1, 2 and 3. Brookville Lake is about 5 minutes away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres with over 100 sugar maple trees and about 20 acres of flat grass fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced in so please close gates back when you open them. We mow trails for hiking feel free to explore, if you run into a cornfield it's not our property. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have an outhouse for tent campers And water is available by campsite 1 and we have portable idc tote with city water. We also have 3 indoor/outdoor cats, they like to visit the campground. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway.

6. Lazy Acres

100%

(22)

47mi from Lake Santee · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Modoc, IN

Note from host ! Hello Hipcampers, another summer has past us by and as cold weather approaches we realize people still travel. We will still take campers as long as you’re self sufficient . There will be a portable toilet on premises . Thank you. Experience the tranquility of a quiet country setting just minutes away from shopping, dining, and Summit Lake State Park, Winchester Speedway (for those racing fans) and less than a half-hour from an array of entertainment options. Nestled on 10 acres of family-owned, serene countryside, our homestead offers a private getaway for individuals or the whole family. Whether you prefer a secluded retreat or a communal gathering, rent a single spot or the entire 10 acres for your outing. We strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests. Throughout the year, our property is home to chickens, a cow or two, usually a few pigs, and a couple of dogs, offering a glimpse into rural life. Join us this weekend and gather around the fire pit for warmth and camaraderie. We provide 10-20 primitive sites tailored to your needs, from secluded spots to a communal area where multiple families can camp together and share stories around the fire. Each site includes picnic tables, fire pits, and trash pickup. We also offer firewood, but kindly request that you refrain from bringing wood from elsewhere to preserve the health of our woods for future visitors. For your convenience, we have a small camp store stocked with essential items often forgotten at home. Additionally, children can enjoy our small playground while adults relax in nature. Whether you pitch a tent or hang your hammock from a tree, we welcome you with open arms. Don't have camping gear? Give us a call, as we offer tent and hammock rentals, along with various other amenities. If you prefer indoor accommodations, we have a camper ready for you. We look forward to hosting you on our picturesque countryside retreat.

7. Cobbler's Knob

100%

(30)

26mi from Lake Santee · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Milton, IN

Looking for a quiet weekend in the country? Passing through central Indiana on your way to another destination? Cobbler's Knob might be the perfect place for you! We offer a peaceful setting on 25 acres with spaces for anyone looking for more privacy to those who'd like to be a little closer to the action of our working farm. We have large campsites that allow room for RVs, even on the primitive tent sites. Three of our sites offer water and electric hookup. We supply a fire pit for each site and can have firewood stacked and waiting for you upon request. We also have a bathroom with a toilet and sink near all of the campsites. You are welcome to stay at the farm for the entire stay or if you want to explore the area, we have many nearby attractions including many restaurants, antique stores, bars and wineries, coffee shops, etc. Indiana's oldest family-owned apple orchard, Dougherty Orchards is a must-see and located just a few miles down the road. If you are looking for a fun, safe, family atmosphere, Cobbler's Knob might just be the place for you!

Camper favorites near Lake Santee

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Away at Green Hill

100%

(327)

44mi from Lake Santee · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Union, KY

Fall is finally here. It's so Welcomed - summer was brutal - either 95 degrees/95% humidity or raging storms! So cool temps & beautiful leaves are looking good. NOTE: many weekends are already booked through Oct so get yours booked asap Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, Indiana the Ohio River, this 27 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there are wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends, and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive-in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Standard amenities include privacy - we only book two sites at any time, which are far apart from each other and surrounded by woods. Also, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). And onsite firewood purchased during booking or while onsite. Site 1 - Open Sky accommodates solo or the group, tents to small campers. It comes with extra amenities: hammock, trampoline, (badminton & cornhole by request). It's also closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, outhouse. Site 2 - Gobbler's Knob is a more cozy space - a small rise surrounded by forest. A short walk from the outhouse and firewood shed. It can accommodate pop-ups, small pull-behinds, tents, hammocks. Vehicles can park on site or park at site entrance, just 50'. Site 3 - Henry's Holler. By request only. For 4WD overlanders only. Read site description in full before requesting. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing about in tiny riverfront towns minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River,, historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology" or the Creation Museum. Do nothing or do something.

Sugar Maple Grove Campground

98%

(74)

22mi from Lake Santee · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Brownsville, IN

Nice secluded campsites with lots of space and privacy. Fire wood available for $5 for a bundle or you can bring your own, also have excellent cell phone service unlike most state parks in the area. Picnic tables, fire pits and water available and also have a portable idc tote so we can fill your tank at any site. 30 amp and 20 amp outlets at rv sites 1, 2 and 3. Brookville Lake is about 5 minutes away. We have 25 acres with about 3 wooded acres with over 100 sugar maple trees and about 20 acres of flat grass fields plenty of room to hike, just keep in mind we have one horse that is fenced in so please close gates back when you open them. We mow trails for hiking feel free to explore, if you run into a cornfield it's not our property. Att has excellent service at 94mbps download and 11mbps upload, Verizon is good at 36mbps Download and 5mbps upload. We have an outhouse for tent campers And water is available by campsite 1 and we have portable idc tote with city water. We also have 3 indoor/outdoor cats, they like to visit the campground. Direction: Please use SR 44 to country road 450 and go north and take a right at 4 way stop on to Springersville Road and we are about a quarter mile down the road on the left. Little yellow house with 3 eastern white pine tree before the driveway.

Lazy Acres

100%

(22)

47mi from Lake Santee · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Modoc, IN

Note from host ! Hello Hipcampers, another summer has past us by and as cold weather approaches we realize people still travel. We will still take campers as long as you’re self sufficient . There will be a portable toilet on premises . Thank you. Experience the tranquility of a quiet country setting just minutes away from shopping, dining, and Summit Lake State Park, Winchester Speedway (for those racing fans) and less than a half-hour from an array of entertainment options. Nestled on 10 acres of family-owned, serene countryside, our homestead offers a private getaway for individuals or the whole family. Whether you prefer a secluded retreat or a communal gathering, rent a single spot or the entire 10 acres for your outing. We strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests. Throughout the year, our property is home to chickens, a cow or two, usually a few pigs, and a couple of dogs, offering a glimpse into rural life. Join us this weekend and gather around the fire pit for warmth and camaraderie. We provide 10-20 primitive sites tailored to your needs, from secluded spots to a communal area where multiple families can camp together and share stories around the fire. Each site includes picnic tables, fire pits, and trash pickup. We also offer firewood, but kindly request that you refrain from bringing wood from elsewhere to preserve the health of our woods for future visitors. For your convenience, we have a small camp store stocked with essential items often forgotten at home. Additionally, children can enjoy our small playground while adults relax in nature. Whether you pitch a tent or hang your hammock from a tree, we welcome you with open arms. Don't have camping gear? Give us a call, as we offer tent and hammock rentals, along with various other amenities. If you prefer indoor accommodations, we have a camper ready for you. We look forward to hosting you on our picturesque countryside retreat.

Cobbler's Knob

100%

(30)

26mi from Lake Santee · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Milton, IN

Looking for a quiet weekend in the country? Passing through central Indiana on your way to another destination? Cobbler's Knob might be the perfect place for you! We offer a peaceful setting on 25 acres with spaces for anyone looking for more privacy to those who'd like to be a little closer to the action of our working farm. We have large campsites that allow room for RVs, even on the primitive tent sites. Three of our sites offer water and electric hookup. We supply a fire pit for each site and can have firewood stacked and waiting for you upon request. We also have a bathroom with a toilet and sink near all of the campsites. You are welcome to stay at the farm for the entire stay or if you want to explore the area, we have many nearby attractions including many restaurants, antique stores, bars and wineries, coffee shops, etc. Indiana's oldest family-owned apple orchard, Dougherty Orchards is a must-see and located just a few miles down the road. If you are looking for a fun, safe, family atmosphere, Cobbler's Knob might just be the place for you!

Stories from the community

A

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Away at Green Hill

Always the best host and always my first option when I want to use Hipcamp.

A

Allie

November 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

Very private. Hidden gem. Fantastic hosts.private creek and different spots to book from.

Victoria & Jack

November 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

13 nights at Sugar Maple Grove Campground

The site was quiet and conveniently located near many things to explore. We biked the Whitewater Canal Trail, hiked the trails at Shrader-Weaver Woods, and visited Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary. We also enjoyed an afternoon in Centerville, Indiana, exploring the 5 arches, browsing antiques, and grabbing food at the local restaurants.

Peter

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sugar Maple Grove Campground

Robert’s campground is great, I highly recommend it

S

Sarah

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

Fantastic property and super friendly hosts. Loved this place. We will definitely be back.

J

Jon

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

I love this campground. This was my first time staying in one of the sites in the woods along the creek and it did not disappoint. I will be back.

Mycah

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cattail Springs

I had a great experience at The Hollow at Cattail Springs! I was the only one onsite during my time there, so I had the whole place available to me. There was plenty of firewood so the fire stayed hot, I had complete access to the pond, and I had ample time of solitude which I was after. I couldn't recommend booking through Cole enough! He was there waiting for me when I arrived and was like talking to someone I had known for a long time. Thanks for the hospitality!

S

Sydney

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

We loved camping at Martha’s land, it was very quiet, peaceful, and scenic. Martha greeted us on arrival and was very kind and welcoming! We will be back!

K

Katharina

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Carriage House Farm

What a unique stay! Really enjoyed the local wagyu burger and pawpaw seltzer. The owner was warm and inviting and we felt right at home camping on top of the hill!

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Sugar Maple Grove Campground

Beautiful sky for start gazing, we watched the meteor shower! Well kept sites, clean outhouse, peaceful trip. We'll be back!

S

Shelley

October 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Carriage House Farm

The barn/bar is adorable and Richard was very friendly and helpful. Camping down the Ridgeline and along the dirt road seemed like it would not be my cup of tea, but in fact, it was very private and very spread apart. I would definitely camp there again! We enjoyed music both evenings and the food at the barn was delicious. I would love if they had a few more choices on the menu.

K

Kristen

October 2025

24 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cobbler's Knob

Quiet and peaceful. The hosts are very kind. Site # 9 with electric and water hookup is pretty close to their house and some barns/ silos- not a major issue but something to be aware of.

Richard

October 2025

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Cobbler's Knob

Cobblers knob is a nice working farm with areas around the farm house to camp. I felt very at home there and enjoyed watching the animals and relaxing.

B

Brianna

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

A nice little spot in the woods by the creek! Owners are super friendly and have the sweetest dog :)

A

Abbie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Quiet Creek Valley

Beautiful location! Felt secluded but we weren't too far from everything we needed. This was a sad trip for us so we didn't get out and do much but the peace and quiet at the site was just what we needed.

Adilah

October 2025

35 ft travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Cobbler's Knob

What an amazing stay my family and I had at Cobblers Knob the host were very kind and accommodating. The stay was delightful and comfortable. We were able to pull in and park. The Host are very responsive and kind. If your in the area be sure to try them out you won't be sorry!

L

Lucifer

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Carriage House Farm

Great as ever; cats were fun; Bozzo is very friendly

g

gloria

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Quiet Creek Valley

This camp spot is perfect for rural camping but close to convenience! Hueston woods is 7 minutes away, the oldest national forest and park in Ohio with a beach and excellent bike trails. The hostess/host are hospitable and if you have friendly dogs, off leash is the way to go here. The creek is very close, easy to wade in or inner tubing and has easy access. You can also fit a small camper or tents (recommend cots) and the hosts are very accommodating. I will definitely be back!

E

Eva

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Quiet Creek Valley

Great spot! Thanks for having us :-) we appreciated how easy it was to walk down the steps to stand by the creek, and felt like the camping sites were spaced nicely apart.