Beach Camping Near Painted Hills, Indiana, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Camping near the Painted Hills with a beach focus offers over 2,100 options, where you can pitch your tent right near the water or just steps away from sandy stretches. The average stay lands around $75 per night, with some spots starting at that same price. If you want a place with solid shade, easy access to water, and the chance to spot local wildlife, check out Dirt Weapon Ranch (22 reviews) or the quieter Yoshi acres (1 review). Most sites in this area allow pets, campfires, and have showers. Fishing and swimming are more than just afterthoughts here—they’re part of the daily rhythm. Expect friendly hosts and enough space to unwind after a day exploring the shoreline.

99% (36)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping near the Painted Hills with a beach focus offers over 2,100 options, where you can pitch your tent right near the water or just steps away from sandy stretches. The average stay lands around $75 per night, with some spots starting at that same price. If you want a place with solid shade, easy access to water, and the chance to spot local wildlife, check out Dirt Weapon Ranch (22 reviews) or the quieter Yoshi acres (1 review). Most sites in this area allow pets, campfires, and have showers. Fishing and swimming are more than just afterthoughts here—they’re part of the daily rhythm. Expect friendly hosts and enough space to unwind after a day exploring the shoreline.

99% (36)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

17mi from Painted Hills · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Gosport, IN

Come and enjoy our private 90-acre retreat, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled in an arch of the White River, this secluded sanctuary boasts two private lakes, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and relaxation. Conveniently located within a short driving distance to Indy, Bloomington, and Southern Indiana, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while still having access to nearby urban amenities. We offer five powered campsites and numerous options for primitive camping lakeside or riverside. Please note that there are no direct water hookups, so be sure to bring your own water for your stay.

2. Heartland Resort

40mi from Painted Hills · 41 sites · Greenfield, IN

Heartland Resort stands out as a serene oasis in Central Indiana, just a short 20-minute drive east of Indianapolis. Nestled in a picturesque setting, our campground offers a peaceful retreat with full hook-ups suitable for RVs of all sizes. Whether you're planning a quick overnight stay, a weekend getaway, or an extended visit for a week or even a month, Heartland Resort is the perfect destination. For those looking to immerse themselves in the camping experience, seasonal stays are also available. We pride ourselves on providing a welcoming atmosphere and are dedicated to accommodating your needs. Come and discover the charm of Heartland RV Resort, where relaxation and adventure await!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

3. Morgan Monroe State Forest

67%

(3)

35 sites · Painted Hills, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Morgan Monroe State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

4. Yellowwood State Forest

100%

(3)

90 sites · Nashville, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Yellowwood State Forest and its myriad outdoor activities.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

5. Brown County State Park

100%

(21)

610 sites · Nashville, Indiana

Mountains in Indiana? Welcome to the Little Smokies.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. 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

7. 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

8. Owen-Putnam State Forest

69 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

9. Hoosier National Forest

88%

(13)

252 sites · Paoli, Indiana

See the wilderness of southern Indiana from the Ohio River to just south of Bloomington.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

10. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%

(6)

150 sites · Vallonia, Indiana

Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.

Pets

Potable water

Campfires

11. Spring Mill State Park

100%

(2)

224 sites · Mitchell, Indiana

See how pioneers lived and learn about outer space at this southern Indiana park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Shakamak State Park

100%

(1)

207 sites · Coalmont, Indiana

Discover Shakamak State Park's serene lakes and lush campgrounds.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Painted Hills

100%

(1)

Oak Ridge Campground

5.8mi from Painted Hills · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

100%

(1)

Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground

5.8mi from Painted Hills · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

Mason Ridge Campground

6.3mi from Painted Hills · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

100%

(3)

Yellowwood Campground

15mi from Painted Hills · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yellowwood State Forest

100%

(21)

Brown County Campground

16mi from Painted Hills · 610 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brown County State Park

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

22mi from Painted Hills · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

100%

(5)

McCormicks Creek Campground

22mi from Painted Hills · 233 sites · Tents, RVs · in McCormicks Creek State Park

Rattlesnake Campground

25mi from Painted Hills · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Horse Campground

27mi from Painted Hills · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

100%

(6)

Hardin Ridge Campground

27mi from Painted Hills · 200 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Little Salt Creek Group Site

29mi from Painted Hills · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Hoosier National Forest

Fish Creek Campground

32mi from Painted Hills · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Stories from the community

J

October 2025

45 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Dirt Weapon Ranch

Pros: RV electric hookups. Clean onsite bathroom with running water, sink, flushing toilet and shower. Nice well maintained camping sites (tent and RV). Plenty of land to roam and enjoy nature. Beautiful views of the lakes, nature and wildlife. Cons: Limited number of firepits. All 5 RV sites share one firepit. Not a real issue if you're the only one there but not great if there are other groups booked on site. Some of the camping sites have firepits but not all of them. Lakes have some junk in them, tires, etc. There is overflow from the river so when it floods the river flows into the lakes and it brings along the trash with it. It wasn't too bad but does give you pause when considering swimming or fishing. Overall: We had a great trip and will book here again. The pro's outweigh the cons and it was a lot of fun getting away for a weekend with friends.

M

Michael

June 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Dirt Weapon Ranch

This place is just fantastic! Excellent sites and amenities, the property was beautiful and well-maintained, and it was very peaceful. The pictures really don't do justice to how beautiful it is. The owners were very helpful and welcoming, but give you your space as well which is always appreciated. I'll be back with my kids soon!