The best campgrounds near Salem, Indiana 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.

99% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

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.

99% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Salem

1. Hones Pointe Campground

97%

(842)

43mi from Salem · 36 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!

2. Unplugged Acres

100%

(21)

41mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

3. Hidden Valley River Camp

99%

(200)

36mi from Salem · 4 sites · Tents

Beautiful valley on the Ohio River with 300 feet of beach front, private boat dock, covered 20x30 community pavilion and a large fire pit. A beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy.Learn more about this land:Beautiful private Valley setting on the Ohio River with private boat dock. Creek bed with rocks and fossils. 2 covered pavillions and fire pit and eagles and wildlife There is a mile gravel road and steep hill is why no rv's. Cars and trucks have no problems.

4. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%

(6)

150 sites · Vallonia, Indiana

Discover the natural charm of Starve Hollow State Recreation Area.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

5. Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(3)

215 sites · Borden, Indiana

Find your lake life vibes in southern Indiana.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%

(124)

33mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents

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.

7. Hill Springs Campground

100%

(68)

37mi from Salem · 15 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

8. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

31mi from Salem · 1 site · Tent

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.

9. Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

25mi from Salem · 3 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.

10. 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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Hardy Lake

162 sites · Deputy, Indiana

Discover Hardy Lake's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Hoosier National Forest

88%

(13)

252 sites · Paoli, Indiana

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

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

13. Patoka Lake

100%

(1)

445 sites · Birdseye, Indiana

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Salem · 21 sites

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!

15. 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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

16. Clifty Falls State Park

86%

(9)

164 sites · Madison, Indiana

With a name like this, the outdoor fun is obvious.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

17. Brown County State Park

100%

(21)

610 sites · Nashville, Indiana

Mountains in Indiana? Welcome to the Little Smokies.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

18. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana

Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.

Campfires

Toilets

Potable water

Camper favorites near Salem

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

MoonLight Grove Farm

100%

(124)

33mi from Salem · 2 sites · Tents

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.

Hill Springs Campground

100%

(68)

37mi from Salem · 15 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

Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

31mi from Salem · 1 site · Tent

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.

Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

25mi from Salem · 3 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.

Canby Ferry Campground

47mi from Salem · 21 sites

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!

Public campgrounds near Salem

100%

(6)

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

15mi from Salem · 150 sites · Tents, RVs · in Starve Hollow State Recreation Area

100%

(3)

Deam Lake State Recreation Area

16mi from Salem · 215 sites · Tents, RVs · in Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Spring Mill Campground

19mi from Salem · 224 sites · Tents, RVs · in Spring Mill State Park

Hardy Lake Campground

24mi from Salem · 162 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hardy Lake

Springs Valley Recreation Area

26mi from Salem · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Little Salt Creek Group Site

30mi from Salem · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Hoosier National Forest

100%

(6)

Hardin Ridge Campground

33mi from Salem · 200 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

100%

(1)

Patoka Lake Campground

33mi from Salem · 445 sites · Tents, RVs · in Patoka Lake

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

92%

(8)

Monroe Lake Campground

38mi from Salem · 312 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monroe Lake

86%

(9)

Clifty Falls State Park Campground

38mi from Salem · 164 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clifty Falls State Park

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

100%

(2)

Indian Celina Lake Campground

39mi from Salem · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

100%

(21)

Brown County Campground

41mi from Salem · 610 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brown County State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jessi

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

This was my second stay & again, we had an amazing private stay at Hidden Valley once again! Will be back!

M

Matthew

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

I had a great experience. I stayed at Holmes Hideaway site and it was beautiful - on the river with seclusion, fire pits, and plenty of tree cover. I went in mid-november and it was not crowded. Everything done through the app and I was left alone. It was a fun weekend.

E

Ed

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

Clean quiet and family friendly. Open areas and the river await adventure by all ages. Roving herd of sheep goats, donkey and mini horse add to the whimsy. Steve and his son Bradley are excellent hosts and I will return.

M

Michael

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

Beautiful setting, clean facilities with lots of access to the little Kentucky River

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hill Springs Campground

Great hosts with an excellent, secluded spot…totally recommend!

C

Corei

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hill Springs Campground

Thie site was very cute and had a lot of nice amenities like a picnic table, shelter, fire ring, and an outhouse. The host was very nice. We had a great time.

C

Caleb

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Beautiful and peaceful location. The kids loved running around and playing on the huge field and along the riverbank. The large pavilion with electric comes in handy for blowing up mattresses and the porta-pot style toilet was the cleanest I've ever seen! This was our second time staying here and look forward to staying again.

Z

Zach

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Love this area. We have now camped here 4 times and have not had a single complaint. The hosts are very welcoming and even take our kids for rides on their golf cart. This trip was our second annual camping trip with high school friends and bringing all of our kids together to play is awesome. Three of the campsites border a nice 2 acre or greater size yard and the kids play until they are so tired or it’s time for s’mores. We are already talking about another trip this summer.

c

chris

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hidden Valley River Camp

Very nice couple and great secluded campsite. Would go again

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Awesome hosts. Loved the view of the river and the hospitality. We will definitely be back in the summer.

S

Samantha

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hill Springs Campground

This is our second time staying at their pond spot. We had a wonderful time again and want to make it an annual tradition! This spot is private but also has modern amenities like the outhouse and coverage for rain.

S

Steven

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Amazingly kind host, definitely a great spot. Bathrooms were super clean and had a nightlight in it and wash station. Easy access to the river and very peaceful out there. You rarely ever heard any other noises other than the occasional flight over. Most of the sites are not private, there’s just one private site. So if you want the privacy, make sure you request that one set back off in another field close to the creek or check its availability.

s

sophia

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hill Springs Campground

This was a lovely camping spot! The views are gorgeous. The signage and directions to the site are easy to follow. Hosts were communicative and friendly. We love a secluded campsite and this felt like we were surrounded by nothing but trees and rolling farmland. The site was large with plenty of room for our tent and vehicles. We loved watching the sunset here! 10/10 recommend and would love to visit again!

Emily

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

Our group loved camping on Kathy and Scott's land! Very chill, welcoming hosts. Talking with Scott and meeting Sam the dog was definitely a highlight. :) Such a beautiful, peaceful spot by the river. Very spacious and FLAT campsites. Port-a-toilet even had a foot-pump sink and soap next to it – so nice to be able to wash your hands and not just use hand sanitizer. Amazing view of the river and barges going by in the morning. We loved it and will definitely be back again!

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.

K

Kristy

October 2025

36 ft fifth wheel

4 nights at Hones Pointe Campground

Loved this campground! Steve was an awesome host and we loved the free roaming animals!

S

Shannon

October 2025

24 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Hones Pointe Campground

Cool spot a short way down a windy road, and at the bottom you reach the campground. We were able to let our dogs run free with us while the goats were away at work, very fun. Peaceful and quiet, super clean toilet, and great place for kids.

D

Dmytro

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Hones Pointe Campground

Great place to stay. My son was really excited to explore!

t

tracy

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hones Pointe Campground

Was greeted by a lovely dark pony on arrival. Was sent off in the morning by a herd of goats and a mule🙂. Site was private and clean

D

Dung

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Valley River Camp

We love the place especially the river bank area where dogs and kids can play. Hosts are supper nice and friendly , beautiful river view. Nice shade and grass area.