The best camping near Lake Santee with swimming

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Lake Santee makes swimming easy, with over 1200 campsites set up for water access. Expect a mix of established campgrounds and private sites right along the shoreline—no need to hike for a spot to cool off. The average night goes for $35, but you can find options for as low as $25. Most sites offer toilets, showers, and welcome pets, so you don’t have to rough it. Swimming draws the crowds, but you’ll also spot herons and turtles or cast a line for bass. Top picks in the area include Away at Green Hill (187 reviews), Pyramid Point (20 reviews), and The Rusted Plow (15 reviews). If you want to swim, watch wildlife, or fish right from your campsite, Lake Santee’s got you covered. Bring sunscreen and a towel—you’ll use both.

100% (41)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Rusted Plow

1. The Rusted Plow

100%
(22)
28mi from Lake Santee · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carthage, IN
We live off of a gorgeous winding tree lined road between Knightstown and Carthage. Our property has several options for you to tent camp or we can accommodate large RVs. Electric will be supplied via extension cord and we can provide well water to fill your tank or a hose from our pump for you to use as needed. We own 10 acres with a pasture of wild flowers, chickens, and several varieties of trees. The surrounding 100 acres along Big Blue River is owned by our family and available for your enjoyment. Kayaking, hiking, bird watching, swimming and just relaxing! We hope we can be a quiet spot for your travels thru the midwest. We are 30 minutes from Indianapolis, 20 minutes to a gorgeous lake and mountain bike trail and Knightstown has several quaint shops and antique venues for you to enjoy! Please keep all animals on a leash or contained. We do live in the midst of cornfields and forest where racoons, opossums and our pets live. We have outdoor kitties Reginald is a big gray boy who will try to climb your leg if you stand still long enough! lol Abigail is our outdoor pooch and she does like to roam outside during the day. We also have a new to our farm rescued Great Pyreneese that is adjusting! She is in an enclosed pen behind our barn and should'nt cause you any trouble. You may hear her barking off and on as she adjusts to the new surroundings. If you need anything please let us know :D We are always ready to make your stay as comfortable as we can!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Blue River Sports

2. Blue River Sports

100%
(18)
26mi from Lake Santee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Carthage, IN
Our 22 acre property is perfect for people who want to get away. There is only one house visible from ours. Its very quiet and secluded. We offer 50amp service, water hookup and dump station if needed. There is WIFI also available for RV Campers (we are in the country so it is what it is). There are 2 sites. One in the woods for tent campers and one up above for RV campers. We do not have showers or bathrooms for campers. The Big Blue River boarders the whole property. We have kayaks we could rent out if someone needed them or bring your own. We have a large fire ring up above and a more compact one for river front, with the first wheel barrow load of wood free. We are close to I70 and have a nice little convince store and Dollar Store about a mile away that will have all the necessities. Plenty of room to park at both sites.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Grandpa’s Farm Campground & RV Park

7. Grandpa’s Farm Campground & RV Park

100%
(1)
42mi from Lake Santee · 357 sites · Richmond, IN
Discover the charm of Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park, a unique family-owned gem in Richmond, Indiana, where generations have created lasting memories for over 60 years. This inviting campground stands out for its commitment to providing exceptional accommodations, engaging activities, and top-notch facilities, all nestled in a serene rural setting. Guests can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by picturesque scenery and a gently flowing river that enhances the natural beauty of the park. Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended stay, Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. With a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including swimming holes and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, making it easy to explore the area. Your hosts at Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park are eager to welcome you and ensure your stay is memorable!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Cornerstone Campground

8. Cornerstone Campground

36mi from Lake Santee · 51 sites · New Castle, IN
Welcome to Cornerstone Campground and Retreat Center, a unique family-friendly destination nestled in the heart of New Castle, IN, in Henry County. Conveniently located just 30 miles from Indianapolis and easily accessible via I-70, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for your next getaway. At Cornerstone, we provide a variety of spacious campsites suitable for families camping in tents, RVs, or anything in between. Our beautiful brick retreat house is perfect for large groups and event hosting, ensuring that we can accommodate your needs no matter the occasion. The retreat center features Gilley’s Banquet Hall and the Daily Bread Cafe, which offer catering options and meeting spaces for any event. The Daily Bread is not just a cafe; it also houses our camp store and arcade, where you can enjoy delicious homemade pizzas, desserts, specialty shakes, and beverages. Our popular pizza delivery service allows you to have a hot meal ready upon your arrival. Our campground boasts clean, hot showers, well-maintained grounds, and serene docks overlooking a picturesque pond. Enjoy our swimming pools, ball courts, and canoe and kayak rentals, or take a thrilling ride down the largest tube slide playset in Indiana. Throughout the summer, we
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Canby Ferry Campground

9. Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Lake Santee · 21 sites · Madison, IN
Canby Ferry Campground stands out as a unique destination with its eight private full hookup sites nestled along the scenic Ohio River. This charming campground is conveniently situated next to the Canby Ferry public boat ramp, making it an ideal spot for water enthusiasts. Each site is designed to accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length and features concrete pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and both 30 and 50 amp service. For those seeking breathtaking views, sites 3 through 6 offer stunning vistas of the river. The campground is just a short 10-minute drive from Historic Downtown Madison, where visitors can explore a variety of local shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, hiking trails, and a picturesque river walk. Downtown Madison also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Court Days, Regatta, Chautauqua, Ribberfest, and music in the park, along with a vibrant farmers market. With its prime location and excellent amenities, Canby Ferry Campground is the perfect getaway for outdoor lovers and families alike. Bring your boat, jet skis, or canoe and make the most of your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

Lake Santee makes swimming easy, with over 1200 campsites set up for water access. Expect a mix of established campgrounds and private sites right along the shoreline—no need to hike for a spot to cool off. The average night goes for $35, but you can find options for as low as $25. Most sites offer toilets, showers, and welcome pets, so you don’t have to rough it. Swimming draws the crowds, but you’ll also spot herons and turtles or cast a line for bass. Top picks in the area include Away at Green Hill (187 reviews), Pyramid Point (20 reviews), and The Rusted Plow (15 reviews). If you want to swim, watch wildlife, or fish right from your campsite, Lake Santee’s got you covered. Bring sunscreen and a towel—you’ll use both.

100% (41)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Rusted Plow

1. The Rusted Plow

100%
(22)
28mi from Lake Santee · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carthage, IN
We live off of a gorgeous winding tree lined road between Knightstown and Carthage. Our property has several options for you to tent camp or we can accommodate large RVs. Electric will be supplied via extension cord and we can provide well water to fill your tank or a hose from our pump for you to use as needed. We own 10 acres with a pasture of wild flowers, chickens, and several varieties of trees. The surrounding 100 acres along Big Blue River is owned by our family and available for your enjoyment. Kayaking, hiking, bird watching, swimming and just relaxing! We hope we can be a quiet spot for your travels thru the midwest. We are 30 minutes from Indianapolis, 20 minutes to a gorgeous lake and mountain bike trail and Knightstown has several quaint shops and antique venues for you to enjoy! Please keep all animals on a leash or contained. We do live in the midst of cornfields and forest where racoons, opossums and our pets live. We have outdoor kitties Reginald is a big gray boy who will try to climb your leg if you stand still long enough! lol Abigail is our outdoor pooch and she does like to roam outside during the day. We also have a new to our farm rescued Great Pyreneese that is adjusting! She is in an enclosed pen behind our barn and should'nt cause you any trouble. You may hear her barking off and on as she adjusts to the new surroundings. If you need anything please let us know :D We are always ready to make your stay as comfortable as we can!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Blue River Sports

2. Blue River Sports

100%
(18)
26mi from Lake Santee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Carthage, IN
Our 22 acre property is perfect for people who want to get away. There is only one house visible from ours. Its very quiet and secluded. We offer 50amp service, water hookup and dump station if needed. There is WIFI also available for RV Campers (we are in the country so it is what it is). There are 2 sites. One in the woods for tent campers and one up above for RV campers. We do not have showers or bathrooms for campers. The Big Blue River boarders the whole property. We have kayaks we could rent out if someone needed them or bring your own. We have a large fire ring up above and a more compact one for river front, with the first wheel barrow load of wood free. We are close to I70 and have a nice little convince store and Dollar Store about a mile away that will have all the necessities. Plenty of room to park at both sites.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Grandpa’s Farm Campground & RV Park

7. Grandpa’s Farm Campground & RV Park

100%
(1)
42mi from Lake Santee · 357 sites · Richmond, IN
Discover the charm of Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park, a unique family-owned gem in Richmond, Indiana, where generations have created lasting memories for over 60 years. This inviting campground stands out for its commitment to providing exceptional accommodations, engaging activities, and top-notch facilities, all nestled in a serene rural setting. Guests can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by picturesque scenery and a gently flowing river that enhances the natural beauty of the park. Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended stay, Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. With a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including swimming holes and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, making it easy to explore the area. Your hosts at Grandpa's Farm Campground & RV Park are eager to welcome you and ensure your stay is memorable!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Cornerstone Campground

8. Cornerstone Campground

36mi from Lake Santee · 51 sites · New Castle, IN
Welcome to Cornerstone Campground and Retreat Center, a unique family-friendly destination nestled in the heart of New Castle, IN, in Henry County. Conveniently located just 30 miles from Indianapolis and easily accessible via I-70, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for your next getaway. At Cornerstone, we provide a variety of spacious campsites suitable for families camping in tents, RVs, or anything in between. Our beautiful brick retreat house is perfect for large groups and event hosting, ensuring that we can accommodate your needs no matter the occasion. The retreat center features Gilley’s Banquet Hall and the Daily Bread Cafe, which offer catering options and meeting spaces for any event. The Daily Bread is not just a cafe; it also houses our camp store and arcade, where you can enjoy delicious homemade pizzas, desserts, specialty shakes, and beverages. Our popular pizza delivery service allows you to have a hot meal ready upon your arrival. Our campground boasts clean, hot showers, well-maintained grounds, and serene docks overlooking a picturesque pond. Enjoy our swimming pools, ball courts, and canoe and kayak rentals, or take a thrilling ride down the largest tube slide playset in Indiana. Throughout the summer, we
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Canby Ferry Campground

9. Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Lake Santee · 21 sites · Madison, IN
Canby Ferry Campground stands out as a unique destination with its eight private full hookup sites nestled along the scenic Ohio River. This charming campground is conveniently situated next to the Canby Ferry public boat ramp, making it an ideal spot for water enthusiasts. Each site is designed to accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length and features concrete pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and both 30 and 50 amp service. For those seeking breathtaking views, sites 3 through 6 offer stunning vistas of the river. The campground is just a short 10-minute drive from Historic Downtown Madison, where visitors can explore a variety of local shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, hiking trails, and a picturesque river walk. Downtown Madison also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Court Days, Regatta, Chautauqua, Ribberfest, and music in the park, along with a vibrant farmers market. With its prime location and excellent amenities, Canby Ferry Campground is the perfect getaway for outdoor lovers and families alike. Bring your boat, jet skis, or canoe and make the most of your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field