Camping near Montgomery with wildlife watching

Camping near Montgomery provides the best home base for weekend getaways to Hoosier National Forest.

98% (1135 reviews)

United States
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Indiana
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Montgomery

98% (1135 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Montgomery

Community favorites near Montgomery

Public campgrounds near Montgomery

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Pike Campground

36 sites · RVs, Tents In Pike State Forest

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Hardin Ridge Campground

200 sites · RVs, Tents In Hoosier National Forest

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Spring Mill Campground

224 sites · RVs, Tents In Spring Mill State Park

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Patoka Lake Campground

445 sites · RVs, Tents In Patoka Lake

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McCormicks Creek Campground

233 sites · RVs, Tents In McCormicks Creek State Park

All of the sites looked this good at least. Level and easy to back into.

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Indian Celina Lake Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Hoosier National Forest

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Shakamak Campground

207 sites · RVs, Tents In Shakamak State Park

Clean inviting campgrounds at Paynetown SRA on Monroe Lake. There are Modern toilets/showerhouse nearby.

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Monroe Lake Campground

312 sites · RVs, Tents In Monroe Lake

Greene-Sullivan Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Greene-Sullivan State Forest

Tipsaw Lake Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Hoosier National Forest

Springs Valley Recreation Area

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Hoosier National Forest

Rattlesnake Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents In Owen-Putnam State Forest

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Little Blue Horse Camp

It was as perfect as a spot as it could’ve possibly been. When it rained we went to hang out at the little bar/ cabin area and it was lovely. We were the only campers in the area, getting on the little blue river was absolutely worth it and there’s beautiful trails nearby. We struck gold and will be going back sometime

3 nights at Persimmon Honey Hollow

It is a lovely little farm and peaceful. The farm animals were a plus.

Weekend Trip to Hill Springs Campground

Bryan and Nicole were very accommodating, very nice experience

4 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Lessie and Phil are great hosts that communicate very well. The quarry entrance site was just right for our 48' rig, but an experienced driver is a must for parking and turning around with such a large rig. We enjoyed golden hour views over the stone henge and campfires in their stone fire rings. We recommend Cataract Falls to the north and McCormick's Creek State Park's water fall and lodge dining to the south. Out east part way to Bloomington is Phat Daddy's BBQ and Jiffy Treat's homemade ice cream right next door. All very affordable. Be sure to checkout Spencer with its train tracks running right beside the courthouse. An hour south is a fun underground boat ride at Blue Spring Caverns Park. Be sure to stop by Better Than Mama's Bakery stand between Speser and Elletsville for delicious self serve sourdough goodies.

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

The camping and arrangements are really nice. Will go and go again. The hosts are amazing.

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

This was an amazing place! We will definitely be going back. Kerry has put so much work into in the campsites and the trails. You have to check it out!

2 nights at Happy Hollow Homestead

I stayed in the A-frame with my dog for 2 nights. The A-frame is better than camping on the ground as it has a queen sized mattress inside; however, there's no door on the A-frame yet so I got a little wet when it rained and the shower near our campsite was not working. Kerry offered the other site to me, which was 10 bucks cheaper, but I really liked the location of the A-frame. In hindsight, I think we would have been better off at the other site that has a door and is closer to the working shower. Kerry is a friendly host who works hard to maintain the land and live sustainably. He recommended a gorgeous hike to Hemlock Cliffs, which was really the highlight of our stay. I loved being close to nature for a few days to defrag my brain.

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Beautiful property, abundant room for large groups, & plenty of cool things to explore

Weekend Trip to Little Blue Horse Camp

What a lovely slice of heaven - truly a serene area to reconnect with nature and friends. Little and large thoughtful touches throughout the property, it's obvious the hosts have put a lot of love and energy into this space. The water was too high/swift to enjoy this trip but we will be back to enjoy that part for sure and make use of their watercraft. We visited nearby Leavenworth which was a treat, and had the most incredible experience at Hemlock Cliffs - the water was really moving and we had never seen such prolific spring wildflowers - an absolutely magical place! We found a place to hang our hammocks and enjoyed an evening of smores and campfire and were sad to leave the next day... We WILL be back!

The huge pine trees provide ample shade for tent and RV campers.

April 2025

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Unplugged Acres

We really enjoyed staying here. Despite the last minute notice we gave, their hospitality was absolutely heartwarming. It was quiet and friendly area. We recommend Natalie & Jeremy's Unplugged Acres. Will come back again. Thank you. 😊

1 night at Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

This was a same day booking from a changed route plan in our trip. Although we got there after dark, the directions to get to the cabin were clear and lights were left on to help. The place is as described and very charming. We arrived at 11pm and were able to start a fire, relax, and let the dogs out and wind down. The loft was great for our 14 year old and the queen bed was comfy.

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

This place rocks. Very serene and lots of beautiful nature to explore. The host Kerry is super nice and welcoming and willing to help. Outhouses are well kept and remove any fear you may have of the old fashioned. There’s also a really sweet dog that may periodically visit your campsite. Would especially reccomend this place if you are looking for a quieter and more primitive camping experience. This is definitely my new go-to for camping in the Kentuckiana area.

Weekend Trip to Little Blue Horse Camp

Very responsive owners with clear directions for entering and leaving property! Perfect spot for our cross country trip. Clean toilet. Fire was ready for us to start it. Enjoyed listening to the owls! Thank you!

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Beautiful area and lovely semi-rugged site with flat soft area for a tent, lots of birds, and kind host(ess). There were trees enough at the Upper Overlook for a hammock or two and the campground was interesting for walking around because of the farm, quarry, railroad (no trains passed by during our stay), and river.

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Due to an unfortunate county wide travel restriction due to flooding, we were not able to experience the campsite, but communication with Lessie was fantastic and we look forward to eventually getting our tents setup by the quarry!

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

A heartfelt thank you to the host/hostess for an amazing experience. We so enjoyed your Shepherd's pie and the warm soda bread. The breakfast casserole hit the spot. Coffee with goats was immersive and extraordinary! Phil was so kind and patient with my silly questions. He also made stellar coffee! The campsite was perfect. Port O Potty was conveniently located and had a hand-washing station. Fancy! Close to Cataract Falls, McCormick Creek and Spencer. We will be back.

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry’s Happy Hollow Homestead was a great place to meet up with a friend to camp for the weekend and celebrate the beginning of spring! The property is well thought out and completely off-grid and sustainable. Visiting the pigs was a fun interaction. The sky was clear and perfect for star gazing. There’s a trail on the perimeter of the land. Plenty of caves nearby for exploring as well! Kerry has done a great job being a steward of the land. Talking to him and learning more about the permaculture techniques that he uses was a highlight of our visit! We car camped at one of the tent/RV sites for two nights. I highly recommend this peaceful place for anyone looking to escape into nature and connect with the land! Thank you Kerry!

3 nights at Happy Hollow Homestead

Kerry's property was everything we had hoped for. Kerry was the BEST host and we will for sure be back. The outdoor shower was the bees knees

Weekend Trip to Nighthawk Forest

We had the best time tent camping in Nighthawk Forest! The area was well maintained, and the extra resources were a bonus (firewood, trash cans, etc.) . Feels quite secluded compared to other campgrounds. Absolutely would recommend!!

3 nights at Happy Hollow Homestead

I loved camping on Kerry's land! It was a great experience and I can't wait to go back!

12 top campgrounds near Montgomery with wildlife watching

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Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

- Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana for 6 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

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Celtic Glen Farm Stay

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · 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. 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, horseback riding, 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), 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. Nearby fun and food: We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options: Many events happen on the Spencer town square (including Spencer Pride events); and at the Owen County Fairgrounds which are actually in town along the White River and hosts events such as the White River Poultry Show. Historic Tivoli Theatre with big-screen movies, classic concessions, and more just off the square Cinema 67 Drive-In (4miles) All About You Salon and Spa on the square offers massage among other nice things. Hilltop Family Restaurant (vintage style family restaurant less than 2 miles north off 231) Owen Valley Winery –good food as well (often free live music) Stable Studios music venue (12 miles from farm) Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub (family friendly space, amazing food and beer and craft soda) Main Street Coffee and Kitchen –a gorgeous café with breakfast and lunch (including Bivi’s tamales) Millie McGee’s Gosport Diner –amazing comfort food in a charming super-small town just across the river (drive north on 231 then east in 67; 23 E Main St, Gosport; 8 miles from the farm) McCormick’s Creek State Park: Canyon Inn for dining, lots of trails, pool in the summer, horse stables Cataract Falls State Recreation Area just north off 231 –really lovely waterfall (13 miles) Green’s Bluff Nature Preserve (Nature Conservancy; 9 miles from farm) Other locally-owned eating: Babs supermarket and deli, Busy Bee Cafe, Papi Chulo’s Cantina, Jit’s Thai Bistro, Chambers Buffet on square, Grand’s Ice Cream, Sweet Valley Ice Cream. Of course, Bloomington is just 20 minutes away with lots to offer. A bit further out: Exotic Feline Rescue Center Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum Indiana University Hoosier National Forest Tulip Trestle Please ask if there is something specific you’d like to find. Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

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Blue River Retreat

9 sites · Tents2 acres · Milltown, IN

Welcome to our primitive campground on the beautiful Blue River! We have 2 acres of riverfront property at the end of a dead end road at the Crawford/Washington County line. Nice and secluded, we have the perfect place to getaway. There is river access for swimming and fishing or you can rent a canoe or kayak from us for a little paddling around. We provide picnic tables and fire rings. Firewood can be purchased from us for an additional cost. Our grounds are fairly flat with plenty of tree cover. If you enjoy hammock camping, our trees are perfect for that! Wildlife is abundant in the area; deer, otter, eagles, raccoons, and beaver are likely to be seen year round. If you are looking for activities nearby you will find Old Mill Canoe Rental in Fredericksburg (15 min drive), Marengo Cave (15 min drive), Beck's Mill (20 min drive), Buffalo Trace Park (25 min drive), as well as many other attractions in nearby Corydon, Salem, and Paoli.

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Persimmon Honey Hollow

2 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · West Baden Springs, IN

Cozy ramshackle farmstead in the Hoosier Hills offer a chance to get up close and personal with the land, through camping, and hiking through the woods. Not only is Hoosier National Forest located both to the north and south for hiking and trail riding, but just 3 miles away is the Rise of Lost River at Orangeville, a natural landmark. Spring Mill State park is located about 20 minutes away in Mitchell, IN, while Patoka Lake is about 15 minutes south of nearby French Lick. For those interested in farmers' markets, Orange County Homegrown markets run Saturday at Orleans(10 miles away) from 8am-noon, and in French Lick 7 miles) from 4-8pm.

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Lost River Hostel

18 sites · Lodging31 acres · West Baden Springs, IN

The Lost River Hostel is a nonprofit arts and cultural center located on a 29+ acre hillside in West Baden Springs, Indiana overlooking a section of the Lost River valley. Lost River Hostel strives to build and maintain an extraordinary space fueled by a constant cycle of generosity and creativity. We hope everyone who stays here will go back into the world refreshed and rejuvenated – wanting to be better people and do great things. Everything we do here is driven by our mission statement: "To provide a sandbox for exploration of goals and growth through nature and human connection." We accomplish this by providing a distraction-free, reflective space that is welcoming of people from all backgrounds and beliefs. A communal dinner with gratitude circle is included in every stay. We also host workshops and events related to music, writing, yoga, organic gardening, cooking, and environmental sustainability.

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Nighthawk Forest

3 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · 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 visit our website at https://roam.camp/nighthawk-forest or call 812-203-0200.

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Hill Springs Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Dubois, IN

Hill Springs Campground is nestled on our 120-acre family farm, and we’re proud to be the third generation to care for this little piece of paradise. Tucked away in the heart of 'God’s country,' our campground offers peace and quiet, miles from the nearest town. The rolling hills provide hay for our cows and wood for the stove, and we take great pride in sharing this beautiful spot with you. Each site offers the chance to unwind by the pond, pick wild blackberries, or hike through our woods. Fire pits are available at all sites, and you can purchase firewood right from our farm (see extras). Our sites are simple—no water, electricity, or internet—but generators are welcome, and we provide a toilet on-site. Please remember to pack out all your trash, including cigarette butts. For a glimpse of what to expect, check out a few videos of the campground on our Facebook page, 'hillspringcamp.' We’re also close to plenty of activities: Patoka Lake is just 3 miles away, with 8,800 acres of water, 26,000 sq. feet of land, and a variety of outdoor fun—boating, fishing, hiking, and even a winery. Historic French Lick and West Baden are 16 miles away, offering everything from casinos to a scenic railway, golf courses, a spa, a wildlife park, and the stunning West Baden Springs Hotel, known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' The city of Jasper is 14 miles away, with a charming riverwalk, museums, parks, and food trucks to explore. The small town of Dubois is just 4.5 miles away, with local taverns, a gas station, and a True Value store. At Hill Springs, you can be as close or as far away from the action as you want to be. We’re excited to share this experience with you and welcome your feedback as we start this journey with Hipcamp. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Bryan and Nicole

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Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

4 sites · Lodging133 acres · 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!

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Fairhaven Farm Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · 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!

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Unplugged Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Birdseye, IN

Our land is nestled between tracts of the Ferdinand state forest. We have been on the property since 1999 and we have enjoyed sharing our little slice of heaven with friends and family thru the years. We promise you will be able to unwind once you get here. The property is mean for relaxing!Learn more about this land:A spacious flat yard atop a hill makes for a great spot to park your RV or camper. The grass camping lots are mowed and clean. Two large pine trees provide some shade for one of the camping spots. You can enjoy nearly panoramic views of the night sky! Bring your family and friends to enjoy these attractions near us are: Ferdinand State Forrest fire lane 12 ( is across the road from us. Enjoy hiking and mountain biking) Patoka lake is less than 10 minutes away ( boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking). Holiday World ( an amusement park) is about 30 minutes away. French Lick casino is about 30 minutes away. There are lots of local wineries to make for great road trips. Louisville is a little over an hour away. Paoli Peaks ( ski and snowboard attraction) is less than an hour away.

Crusader Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Campbellsburg, IN

Learn more about this land: It’s a small farm we have sheep, chickens and other animals for you to hang out with, there is caving and hiking within 15 minutes. We are working on upgrading, currently only have water and compost toilet. Primitive camping only. Thank you for stopping by.

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Gobblers Knob

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Shoals, IN

Camp sites are at top of hill with shaded tree canopy in summer and extensive view in fall til spring. At night, openings in tree canopy provide a star lit view of the night sky.Picnic tables and fire pit available at main cabin for shared use. Flexible camp sites for secluded and private setting. . . Approx 15 minutes to French Lick.

Under $50

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Hohl Farms

1 site · RV, Tent330 acres · 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.

Booked 1 time

Hilltop Hideaway campgrounds

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Birdseye, IN

This is a Bed and Breakfast also. Our charming little farm. Us and our Dogs, Cat, Goats, and Chickens live here. We’ll all give you as much Privacy as we can. Be sure to bring your cocktails and snacks, and your dinner stuff because there isn’t any place very close to eat. We have Parking for fishing boats, 4ft fire pit, and free fishing on property. We’re 5 miles away from Patoka Lake Marina and Park. Where there is lots of recreational things to do(swim,trails,hunt, and fish). We also have 3+ wineries, a Dollar General and a couple of gas stations (convenient stores) nearby. There is lots of things to do around the area, if your willing to drive a little bit. French Lick Casino, Go Carts, Putt Putt Golf, Holiday World theme park, and a drive through Safari, or just relax around our Hilltop Hideaway. We look forward to meeting you as our New Extended Family.

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Bullocktown Hideaway

4 sites · Tents3 acres · Boonville, IN

Learn more about this land:We live on 3 acres. 🐴 Horses on one side Nature and Field in between. 🛁 We have a quiet area with a pole barn that can be utilized for water, and full bath accessories ⚡️ Electric is also available. ⚡️ We can accommodate up to 5 or 6 🏕 if needed in the grassy field and/or 1 on our asphalt drive. ❤️ We are not a campground, just a quiet hideaway. Welcome!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hoosier National Forest

Paoli, Indiana

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Spring Mill State Park

McCormicks Creek State Park

Smithville Sanders, Indiana

Greene-Sullivan State Forest

Dugger, Indiana

Owen-Putnam State Forest

Spencer, Indiana

Red Hills State Park

Sumner, Illinois

Other options near Montgomery

Scales Lake Park

51 sites1 acre · Boonville, IN

Nestled on a stunning 66-acre lake, our campground offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, making it the perfect escape for everyone—from solo travelers to families and retirees. Here, you can unwind in a serene natural environment, where the soothing sounds of nature create an ideal backdrop for relaxation. Imagine gathering around a warm campfire on a clear evening, as the sky transitions from vibrant hues to a blanket of twinkling stars. Sharing these moments with loved ones amidst the beauty of the outdoors enhances the experience. At Scales Lake Park, we provide a variety of camping options to suit your needs. Our Class A sites come equipped with water, sewer, and electricity, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those seeking a more rustic experience, our Class B sites offer water and electric hookups, while our Class C primitive sites cater to the adventurous spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore nearby swimming holes, engage in outdoor activities, or enjoy local dining and shopping, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories at our picturesque campground.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Montgomery with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Looking for a camping adventure near Montgomery, Indiana? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 345 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're into wind sports, whitewater paddling, or horseback riding, there's something for everyone. Plus, popular amenities like campfires, potable water, and toilets make for a comfortable stay. Check out top campsites like Hones Pointe (352 reviews), Hoosier's on the Ridge (70 reviews), and Blue River Retreat (56 reviews) for some tried and true options. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $7, camping has never been more affordable!