The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Montgomery, Indiana

Montgomery’s river campsites pack in over 1,280 ways to wake up near the water. You’ll find spots right on the banks, with average prices at $35 a night and some as low as $7. Top picks like Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), Blue River Retreat (76 reviews), and Stobo Farm (75 reviews) put you close to horseback riding trails and clear swimming holes. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly spots come standard at most locations. Wildlife moves through these woods, so keep your eyes open. River camping here isn’t just about the view—it’s about the easy access to the water and the quiet stretches of forest that keep city noise far away.

99% (980)

Top-rated campgrounds

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

Montgomery’s river campsites pack in over 1,280 ways to wake up near the water. You’ll find spots right on the banks, with average prices at $35 a night and some as low as $7. Top picks like Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), Blue River Retreat (76 reviews), and Stobo Farm (75 reviews) put you close to horseback riding trails and clear swimming holes. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly spots come standard at most locations. Wildlife moves through these woods, so keep your eyes open. River camping here isn’t just about the view—it’s about the easy access to the water and the quiet stretches of forest that keep city noise far away.

99% (980)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Happy Hollow Homestead

99%

(906)

42mi from Montgomery · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marengo, IN

- 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. Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%

(96)

39mi from Montgomery · 4 sites · Lodging · Bedford, IN

Our cabins sits on 100 acres. Our cabins have AC/Heat. A dry sink are in each cabin are provided. Roast hotdogs over your private fire pit as a fire pit is just outside the cabin along with private picnic table. We have a shower bathroom house. You provide your own towel, and soap products. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under your control at all times. Privy's are found just outside the cabin. We have miles of hiking trails and several spring fed creeks so take your hiking boots off and wade in the clean cool water. Stars are in abundance at Guthrie Meadows so star gazing is a must!

3. Celtic Glen Farm Stay

98%

(53)

48mi from Montgomery · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Spencer, IN

Celtic Glen is a working, 100 acre family farm of heritage breed livestock, nestled in an old limestone quarry on the banks of the White River, on one side, and Fall Creek, on another. Lots of space between campsites and are often all to yourself. Learn about regenerative farming with rare breeds on a farm tour, or mining and wetlands restoration on an ecological history tour. Pet and feed the livestock. Fish and bird-watch. Take a yoga class (at times with goats or bunnies) in the center of the stone henge. Have coffee with goats. Eat farm craft meats, eggs, prepared soups, casseroles, and baked goods, or hop into town for a bite.We are across the river from McCormick's Creek State Park (Indiana's first state park with miles of trails, a swimming pool, and lodge) and just two miles north of Spencer, a small town with an excellent brew pub, winery, cafe, and more. Just 12 miles north of the farm is Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. We are only 20 minutes from Bloomington and Indiana University; 45 minutes from Indianapolis Int'l Airport. This is a working farm with lots of livestock, electric fences, and working dogs, so please leave the farm animals alone unless someone from the farm is available and present. Dogs must be on a leash in the camping area. given the above features of a working livestock farm, the quarry ruins, the operative railroad tracks, and the river (not suitable for swimming), family friendly (children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times). *We have lots of on-farm food and supplies options, please contact us for a complete list and any requests. All sites have a private stone fire circle as well as access to a common grill, handwashing station, porta potty or septic outhouse, cold/solar water shower. *We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options. *Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

4. Pike State Forest

100%

(1)

36 sites · Winslow, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

5. Greene-Sullivan State Forest

3 sites · Dugger, Indiana

Discover the serene beauty of Greene-Sullivan State Forest and its myriad of lakes.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

6. Hohl Farms

100%

(8)

32mi from Montgomery · 1 site · Tent, RV · Dale, IN

Row crop and livestock farm located in the hills of southern Indiana. The farm is 5 minutes from Interstate 64. 30 amp and 50 amp hookups available. Pasture pork and Angus cattle are next to the campsite. Located on a rural country road by crop fields, woods and pasture. Large accommodations are available as the crops are harvested and fields are barren.

7. Fairhaven Farm Campground

94%

(50)

40mi from Montgomery · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · English, IN

Until 2019, this farm was in the same family since 1889. It has been a working farm since that time. In 2019, our family purchased the farm and continue to operate it much the same way. Our family is devoted to history and preserving the essence of the past. You may very well see us pull up in one of our antique cars to greet you! Our neighbors are friendly and many are also small farmers. You can't see their farms from camp, but don't be surprised to hear roosters crowing, cattle mooing, and donkeys braying in the distance. Our farm is surrounded by the Hoosier National Forest, so you'll see and hear plenty of wildlife too. At various times during the summer, you may find wild blackberries, elderberries, and black raspberries growing right in camp!

8. Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

31mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Paoli, IN

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.

9. The Timbercrest Ranch

98%

(25)

34mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, IN

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.

10. Patoka Lake

100%

(1)

445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana

Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Owen-Putnam State Forest

69 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

12. Red Hills State Park

30 sites · Sumner, Illinois

A small, intimate gem of a park with a lovely little lake known for largemouth bass bank fishing.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. 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

Toilets

Campfires

14. Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

33mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

15. Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

40mi from Montgomery · 5 sites · Lodging · Saint Meinrad, IN

Great piece of secluded land with a cool fire pit and some great walking trails. Chairs and fire tools available. We have 62 acres in total, with a homemade suspension bridge, a tree house, chickens, goats, and a friendly dog. A small spring-fed stream runs right by camp. Plenty of nature to see and enjoy out here.

16. Kerr creek

100%

(20)

48mi from Montgomery · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IN

Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.

17. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

42mi from Montgomery · 1 site · Tent · Grantsburg, IN

Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.

18. Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

37mi from Montgomery · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

19. McCormicks Creek State Park

100%

(5)

233 sites · Spencer, Indiana

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

20. Beall Woods State Park

16 sites · Keensburg, Illinois

Unbelievably tall trees, winding trails, and an abundance of history is what you’ll find at Beall Woods. The last untouched timber east of the Mississippi is found here, so prepare to gawk at the over 100 ft trees. When you are finally able to pull yourself away from trees, enjoy a picnic, fish for a bit, or hike the trails. The visitor’s center is the perfect starting point: make sure to check out the educational programs they offer to give your brain an exercise!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camper favorites near Montgomery

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Timbercrest Ranch

98%

(25)

34mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, IN

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.

Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

33mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

40mi from Montgomery · 5 sites · Lodging · Saint Meinrad, IN

Great piece of secluded land with a cool fire pit and some great walking trails. Chairs and fire tools available. We have 62 acres in total, with a homemade suspension bridge, a tree house, chickens, goats, and a friendly dog. A small spring-fed stream runs right by camp. Plenty of nature to see and enjoy out here.

Kerr creek

100%

(20)

48mi from Montgomery · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IN

Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.

Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

42mi from Montgomery · 1 site · Tent · Grantsburg, IN

Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.

Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

37mi from Montgomery · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

Public campgrounds near Montgomery

100%

(1)

Pike Campground

22mi from Montgomery · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pike State Forest

Greene-Sullivan Campground

27mi from Montgomery · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greene-Sullivan State Forest

100%

(1)

Patoka Lake Campground

29mi from Montgomery · 445 sites · Tents, RVs · in Patoka Lake

Fish Creek Campground

37mi from Montgomery · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Red Hills Campground

43mi from Montgomery · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Red Hills State Park

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

45mi from Montgomery · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

Rattlesnake Campground

45mi from Montgomery · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

100%

(5)

McCormicks Creek Campground

46mi from Montgomery · 233 sites · Tents, RVs · in McCormicks Creek State Park

Beall Woods Campground

48mi from Montgomery · 16 sites · in Beall Woods State Park

Horse Campground

50mi from Montgomery · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Stories from the community

C

Charles

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

Great experience. Beautiful place. Hope to stay there again…soon. Charlie

Jessica

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

This is our second time here and my goodness, it’s perfect. My daughter loves hiking on the property and petting the horses. It has everything you NEED and the warm shelter after a rainy hike at McCormicks Creek State Park is always what we need. Can’t wait to come back again. Our little dude with Cerebral Palsy could absolutely love this property too.

m

mike

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

My boyfriend and I stayed here for a short-notice camping trip, and we’re so glad we chose this farm. We booked the upper vista site and it was peaceful, secluded, and beautifully tucked away.. exactly what we were hoping for. Even though we arrived later than planned, Phil and Lessie were incredibly nice, welcoming, and understanding. The next morning we woke up to the sound of Highland cows and a few donkeys, which was both funny and surprisingly relaxing. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee by the fire while taking it all in. We were greeted by the owners’ sweet, friendly dogs, and later got to tour the farm. It was so much fun seeing the goats, Highland cows, donkeys, and especially watching their cattle dog proudly show off his herding skills. Lessie shared so much interesting information about the farm and the history behind the animals, you can tell she truly loves what she does. Overall our stay was amazing, peaceful, and refreshing. We’ve already planned to come back, and next time we’re bringing our kids and family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a unique farm experience!

J

Jen

3 weeks ago

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!

Liv

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We stayed in one of the tiny glamping cabins and absolutely loved it. It is a simple little wooden box with a full-size bed you crawl into, and it ended up being the perfect cozy nest for the night. There was enough room to sit up, stash our gear, and our dog fit comfortably with us. It was a cold night, but our sleeping bags plus the structure kept us warm, and the sound of rain on the tin roof was unreal. Check-in was easy and the cabin was simple to find. It was clean in that ideal glamping way: not spotless, just naturally rustic and comfortable. The location is incredibly quiet and peaceful. We heard the occasional bit of road noise from a distant back country road, but nothing distracting. The sites are spaced far apart, so everything feels private. The host was wonderful. They gave us plenty of space but were also happy to chat with my husband about permaculture and building ponds. My favorite part of the stay was climbing into the web at night to look at the stars. It felt magical. The outhouse was also surprisingly nice, which was a great little bonus. Would absolutely come back. This place just has something special! ✨

J

Juan

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private

The Cozy Camping Cottage has it's own yard

ED

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

I was for years trying to sleep in a cottage like that and it finally happened. It was a pretty unique cottage, but the experience was good. Very happy with the place all around. Would recommend to others who like something different!. Great host, helpful and respectful.

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.

R

Riley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

We had an amazing experience staying at the cozy camping cottage at Happy Hollow Homestead! My favorite part was the tree web - there's something magical and therapeutic about being midair and surrounded by trees. We also enjoyed everything else at the homestead, from the friendly animals, the outdoor shower, to the natural surroundings. Kerry has been a fantastic host and responsive throughout booking and our stay. 10/10 would recommend!

N

Nikhil Kumar

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

I loved the cabin so much that we plan to come here next season as well

Z

Zack

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Great tent site! Great communication with Leslie. Would go again

S

Samantha

October 2025

1 night at Happy Hollow Homestead

The cozy cottage was perfect for a chilly evening. Kerry was a fantastic host and has some epic land. We will definitely be back to explore and see what else he has built on the land. If the maple syrup is available you should definitely indulge! Big plus that all the dogs on the property were so sweet.

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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

d

david

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Low stress place to camp. Nice fire ring! Bathroom basic, but very, very clean! Dogs nearby were quiet at night and not bothersome generally.

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!

B

Bradley

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had a fabulous time! The campsite was nice and secluded. My wife appreciated the flushing outhouse. What is really special is the farm, so make sure to have some coffee with goats and do a farm tour if you have the time!

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 :)

R

River

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Little Blue Horse Camp

This truly is a Perfect Little Spot. The hosts are wonderful and take thoughtful care with the place and the details. Favorite highlights are: the comfy chairs with cushions by the large stone wall fire pit, The composting outhouse is clean, cute and comfortable. The open grassy areas are super soft with the ground underneath, great for walking barefoot and feeling the goodness of the earth beneath your feet, also nice for the level areas for tent camping on the ground. The covered porch for hanging out is lovely, A great place to journal or read when the sun is high. I felt totally tucked away and private. Angie and Paige have made this a very special place.

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Raeann

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Very kind and beautiful property. So relaxing! Would be happy to come back!