The best camping near Salem with swimming

·

In Salem, you’ll find over 2,700 campsites where swimming isn’t just possible—it’s the main event. Riverbanks and lakesides draw campers who want more than just a patch of grass; here, you can cool off in water that’s never crowded and always refreshing. Expect sites where a quick dip is just steps from your tent, with showers and toilets a short walk away. The average night runs about $25, but you can snag a spot for as little as $7. Bring your dog—pets are welcome at most sites. Wildlife-watching and hiking round out the days, but the best stories start and end in the water. Check out Hones Pointe Campground (554 reviews) if you want river access and plenty of shade, or try Hidden Valley River Camp (140 reviews) for a quiet spot tucked beside the current. For something different, MoonLight Grove Farm (92 reviews) puts you close to the water without the crowds. Bring a swimsuit, leave your schedule at home.

100% (861) 2,645 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

Nighthawk Forest

1. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
25mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Little Blue Horse Camp

2. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%
(48)
31mi from Salem · 1 site
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.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$29
 / night
MoonLight Grove Farm

3. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(124)
33mi from Salem · 2 sites
Simple living with a few critters and a "whole lotta" walnuts. All natural products made from nature's bounty.  Learn more about this land:Come rest your mind and soul on MoonLight Grove Farm. Camp alongside the Ohio River, watch the barges go by and the Eagles swoop and play. Peaceful, Quiet, Restorative retreat.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

4. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%
(6)
State park 15mi from Salem · 150 sites
Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Deam Lake State Recreation Area

5. Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%
(3)
State park 16mi from Salem · 215 sites
Find your lake life vibes in southern Indiana.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hill Springs Campground

6. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(70)
37mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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. 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, 'hillspringcampground.' 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Unplugged Acres

7. Unplugged Acres

100%
(21)
41mi from Salem · 1 site · Tent, RV
TWO SPOTS TO CHOOSE FROM…… The camping spot we refer to as the NORTHSIDE SPOT is a flat yard atop a hill it makes for a great spot to park your RV, camper, tent or boat. This grass camping spot is always mowed and clean. Two large pine trees provide some shade for this northside camping spot. You can enjoy nearly panoramic views of the night sky! This spot is alongside a country road. It is considered less private than the SOUTH SIDE SPOT. The SOUTH SIDE CAMPING SPOT, is for tent campers only with a smaller vehicle. It is very private and completely surrounded by woods. This spot can accommodate two tents and one or two cars. There is no view of the night sky since you are in a dense forest. Patoka lake is less than 10 minutes away ( boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking). Holiday World ( an amusement park) is about 30 minutes away.
Pets
from 
$12
 / night
Hones Pointe Campground

8. Hones Pointe Campground

97%
(843)
43mi from Salem · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout. Welcome!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Canby Ferry Campground

9. Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Salem
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!
Spring Mill State Park

10. Spring Mill State Park

100%
(2)
State park 19mi from Salem · 224 sites
See how pioneers lived and learn about outer space at this southern Indiana park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hardy Lake

11. Hardy Lake

State park 24mi from Salem · 162 sites
Discover Hardy Lake's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hoosier National Forest

12. Hoosier National Forest

88%
(13)
National forest 21mi from Salem · 252 sites
See the wilderness of southern Indiana from the Ohio River to just south of Bloomington.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Patoka Lake

13. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
State park 33mi from Salem · 445 sites
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monroe Lake

14. Monroe Lake

92%
(8)
Park 38mi from Salem · 312 sites
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Clifty Falls State Park

15. Clifty Falls State Park

86%
(9)
State park 38mi from Salem · 164 sites
With a name like this, the outdoor fun is obvious.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brown County State Park

16. Brown County State Park

100%
(21)
State park 41mi from Salem · 610 sites
Mountains in Indiana? Welcome to the Little Smokies.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferdinand State Forest

17. Ferdinand State Forest

State forest 43mi from Salem · 57 sites
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water

In Salem, you’ll find over 2,700 campsites where swimming isn’t just possible—it’s the main event. Riverbanks and lakesides draw campers who want more than just a patch of grass; here, you can cool off in water that’s never crowded and always refreshing. Expect sites where a quick dip is just steps from your tent, with showers and toilets a short walk away. The average night runs about $25, but you can snag a spot for as little as $7. Bring your dog—pets are welcome at most sites. Wildlife-watching and hiking round out the days, but the best stories start and end in the water. Check out Hones Pointe Campground (554 reviews) if you want river access and plenty of shade, or try Hidden Valley River Camp (140 reviews) for a quiet spot tucked beside the current. For something different, MoonLight Grove Farm (92 reviews) puts you close to the water without the crowds. Bring a swimsuit, leave your schedule at home.

100% (861) 2,645 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

Nighthawk Forest

1. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(16)
25mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Little Blue Horse Camp

2. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%
(48)
31mi from Salem · 1 site
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.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$29
 / night
MoonLight Grove Farm

3. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(124)
33mi from Salem · 2 sites
Simple living with a few critters and a "whole lotta" walnuts. All natural products made from nature's bounty.  Learn more about this land:Come rest your mind and soul on MoonLight Grove Farm. Camp alongside the Ohio River, watch the barges go by and the Eagles swoop and play. Peaceful, Quiet, Restorative retreat.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

4. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%
(6)
State park 15mi from Salem · 150 sites
Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Deam Lake State Recreation Area

5. Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%
(3)
State park 16mi from Salem · 215 sites
Find your lake life vibes in southern Indiana.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hill Springs Campground

6. Hill Springs Campground

100%
(70)
37mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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. 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, 'hillspringcampground.' 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Unplugged Acres

7. Unplugged Acres

100%
(21)
41mi from Salem · 1 site · Tent, RV
TWO SPOTS TO CHOOSE FROM…… The camping spot we refer to as the NORTHSIDE SPOT is a flat yard atop a hill it makes for a great spot to park your RV, camper, tent or boat. This grass camping spot is always mowed and clean. Two large pine trees provide some shade for this northside camping spot. You can enjoy nearly panoramic views of the night sky! This spot is alongside a country road. It is considered less private than the SOUTH SIDE SPOT. The SOUTH SIDE CAMPING SPOT, is for tent campers only with a smaller vehicle. It is very private and completely surrounded by woods. This spot can accommodate two tents and one or two cars. There is no view of the night sky since you are in a dense forest. Patoka lake is less than 10 minutes away ( boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking). Holiday World ( an amusement park) is about 30 minutes away.
Pets
from 
$12
 / night
Hones Pointe Campground

8. Hones Pointe Campground

97%
(843)
43mi from Salem · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout. Welcome!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Canby Ferry Campground

9. Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Salem
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!
Spring Mill State Park

10. Spring Mill State Park

100%
(2)
State park 19mi from Salem · 224 sites
See how pioneers lived and learn about outer space at this southern Indiana park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hardy Lake

11. Hardy Lake

State park 24mi from Salem · 162 sites
Discover Hardy Lake's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hoosier National Forest

12. Hoosier National Forest

88%
(13)
National forest 21mi from Salem · 252 sites
See the wilderness of southern Indiana from the Ohio River to just south of Bloomington.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Patoka Lake

13. Patoka Lake

100%
(1)
State park 33mi from Salem · 445 sites
Discover plenty to do on the water at Indiana's second-largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monroe Lake

14. Monroe Lake

92%
(8)
Park 38mi from Salem · 312 sites
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Clifty Falls State Park

15. Clifty Falls State Park

86%
(9)
State park 38mi from Salem · 164 sites
With a name like this, the outdoor fun is obvious.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brown County State Park

16. Brown County State Park

100%
(21)
State park 41mi from Salem · 610 sites
Mountains in Indiana? Welcome to the Little Smokies.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferdinand State Forest

17. Ferdinand State Forest

State forest 43mi from Salem · 57 sites
Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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