98% (865) • 28 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Claus
Happy Hollow Homestead
1. Happy Hollow Homestead
99%
(909)
37mi from Santa Claus · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
- 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Tar Springs 2
2. Tar Springs 2
98%
(32)
28mi from Santa Claus · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Sleeping Bear Retreat
3. Sleeping Bear Retreat
95%
(20)
31mi from Santa Claus · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sleeping Bear Retreat is located on over 60 beautifully wooded acres in scenic French Lick, Indiana.
Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend getaway, a low cost family vacation, or a group stay, we are the place for you. We are pet friendly, as long as the pet is friendly, and on a leash.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Lincoln State Park
4. Lincoln State Park
299 sites · Gentryville, Indiana
Lincoln State Park: A Tribute to Nature and History.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
O'Bannon Woods State Park
5. O'Bannon Woods State Park
75%
(3)
291 sites · Leavenworth, Indiana
Discover O'Bannon Woods State Park and its lush landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
6. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
0.5mi from Santa Claus · 518 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unparalleled charm of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, the premier destination for glamping enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. Nestled just moments away from the thrilling Holiday World Theme Park and Splashin' Safari Water Park, this award-winning campground offers a unique blend of comfort and excitement.
Recognized as a two-time National RV Park of the Year, Lake Rudolph has earned accolades as the best RV Park in Indiana by Readers Digest. It has also been highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as one of the 11 most family-friendly campgrounds and featured by TravelChannel.com among the top 10 best campgrounds for families.
Open from May 1st to October 31st, this family-friendly haven boasts a variety of accommodations, including cozy cabins and cottages, as well as RV sites. During the first three weekends of December, guests can enjoy special Christmas Cabin packages. On-site amenities include Santa's Splashdown Waterpark, an activity center, an arcade, and a well-stocked camp store, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Experience the magic of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph and see for yourself why it stands out as the best RV park in Indiana. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, or simply a relaxing getaway, this campground has it all
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$39
/ night
Lake View camping
7. Lake View camping
98%
(147)
28mi from Santa Claus · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$16
/ night
The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
8. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
100%
(3)
42mi from Santa Claus · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens.
Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Brambleberry Permaculture Farm
9. Brambleberry Permaculture Farm
100%
(17)
42mi from Santa Claus · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Espri and Darren began Brambleberry Permaculture Farm in the fall of 2003 in the beautiful hills of southern Indiana. We are primarily a plant nursery, but also offer permaculture landscaping and farm consultations. We usually have cows, chickens and rabbits, but are currently taking a break from cattle to build better fences lol. We occasionally have peacocks, ducks, pigs or other livestock as well.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Backer Half Hundred Acres
10. Backer Half Hundred Acres
100%
(7)
8.3mi from Santa Claus · 5 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$80
/ night
98% (865) • 28 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Claus
Happy Hollow Homestead
1. Happy Hollow Homestead
99%
(909)
37mi from Santa Claus · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
- 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Tar Springs 2
2. Tar Springs 2
98%
(32)
28mi from Santa Claus · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Sleeping Bear Retreat
3. Sleeping Bear Retreat
95%
(20)
31mi from Santa Claus · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sleeping Bear Retreat is located on over 60 beautifully wooded acres in scenic French Lick, Indiana.
Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend getaway, a low cost family vacation, or a group stay, we are the place for you. We are pet friendly, as long as the pet is friendly, and on a leash.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Lincoln State Park
4. Lincoln State Park
299 sites · Gentryville, Indiana
Lincoln State Park: A Tribute to Nature and History.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
O'Bannon Woods State Park
5. O'Bannon Woods State Park
75%
(3)
291 sites · Leavenworth, Indiana
Discover O'Bannon Woods State Park and its lush landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
6. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph
0.5mi from Santa Claus · 518 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unparalleled charm of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, the premier destination for glamping enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. Nestled just moments away from the thrilling Holiday World Theme Park and Splashin' Safari Water Park, this award-winning campground offers a unique blend of comfort and excitement.
Recognized as a two-time National RV Park of the Year, Lake Rudolph has earned accolades as the best RV Park in Indiana by Readers Digest. It has also been highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as one of the 11 most family-friendly campgrounds and featured by TravelChannel.com among the top 10 best campgrounds for families.
Open from May 1st to October 31st, this family-friendly haven boasts a variety of accommodations, including cozy cabins and cottages, as well as RV sites. During the first three weekends of December, guests can enjoy special Christmas Cabin packages. On-site amenities include Santa's Splashdown Waterpark, an activity center, an arcade, and a well-stocked camp store, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
Experience the magic of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph and see for yourself why it stands out as the best RV park in Indiana. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, or simply a relaxing getaway, this campground has it all
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$39
/ night
Lake View camping
7. Lake View camping
98%
(147)
28mi from Santa Claus · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$16
/ night
The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
8. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
100%
(3)
42mi from Santa Claus · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens.
Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Brambleberry Permaculture Farm
9. Brambleberry Permaculture Farm
100%
(17)
42mi from Santa Claus · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Espri and Darren began Brambleberry Permaculture Farm in the fall of 2003 in the beautiful hills of southern Indiana. We are primarily a plant nursery, but also offer permaculture landscaping and farm consultations. We usually have cows, chickens and rabbits, but are currently taking a break from cattle to build better fences lol. We occasionally have peacocks, ducks, pigs or other livestock as well.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Backer Half Hundred Acres
10. Backer Half Hundred Acres
100%
(7)
8.3mi from Santa Claus · 5 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
V
Valerie
December 2025
With kids
My husband, our 3 boys, and I stayed in the camping cabin for last minute, quick, weekend getaway. Kerry”s directions were clear, so we had no difficulty finding it. When we arrived, he met us near the front and showed us where we were staying. He showed us around and told the boys about the net, the pigs, and the rope swing. They couldn’t wait to start exploring, and even though it was cold outside, they had a blast playing and didn’t want to come inside. The cabin was clean and cozy. The bed was comfortable and the heater worked really well. Everything was just as described, and my only regret is that we only got to stay for one night. None of us were ready to leave. Kerry was friendly, very accommodating, and responded super quickly to messages. I definitely plan to make another trip here when we are able to stay longer.
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K
Krista
November 2025
Group trip
Beautiful place and perfect for what we needed. Carrie was so helpful and friendly. We felt very welcomed.
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C
Cheryl
November 2025
Group trip
The rooms were nice and the property is beautiful! Hosts were very kind and helpful.
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Liv
November 2025
With pets
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! ✨
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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.
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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!
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S
Shelley
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Sleeping Bear Retreat
I loved camping here. The teepees are such a great retreat, I chose one with power which was a luxury. Enjoyed cooking over a fire with my own picnic table nearby. Even set up my hammock behind the teepee with some well placed trees. The bathrooms were very well maintained and even had an outdoor sink to wash hands and a separate large sink to clean dishes. The grounds are lovely and I will definitely be back to camp again.
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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.
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s
shylah
October 2025
With kids
I cat say enough about how awesome this place was and what an incredible value for the price! Chuck and Van were gracious and kind hosts and we enjoyed getting to know them while we were there too! The photos don’t do this place justice. The kitchen had everything we needed, the bathroooms were immaculate. Our kids loved fishing, playing with the dogs and exploring. Also Jeffrey’s cliff hike is a MUST!
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K
Kevin
October 2025
With kids
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!
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Raeann
October 2025
Group trip
Very kind and beautiful property. So relaxing! Would be happy to come back!
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donna
October 2025
Group trip
Our stay here was wonderful! The scenery is breathtaking and so peaceful. Our host was so kind and showed us such a good time! This particular weekend had a food truck and a music band! The room was super nice and we were so pleased with all of the accommodations!!! We will definitely be coming back and hopefully get to stay longer!!!
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Jamie
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead
Kerry was very kind and has the most beautiful land! Friendly pups joined us for breakfast and even found us along the trails, guiding us along them. The sky net at night is so relaxing and I hope to see it expanded! We had a wonderful trip and cannot wait to come back with our littles next year! Thank you Kerry!
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C
Chris
October 2025
With kids
The cabin was awesome, comfy and quiet. Highly recommendable!
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M
Mark
October 2025
With kids
This was a perfect glamping experience. We definitely wanna come back, but bring our family and friends too!
Plus, it’s super convenient to be 10 mins away from downtown with shops and restaurants.
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C
Crystal
September 2025
1 night at Happy Hollow Homestead
Amazing property, we stayed overnight as a quick stop. The host was very welcoming, the directions were easy to follow. The outhouse had a sink with running and automatic lighting. Loved the hot shower in the morning. We wish we had more time to stay! We were even able to use the host's wifi, which was very nice as service can be spotty.
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Rachel
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead
Once again, we had a fantastic stay on Kerry's beautiful property! Tried out the cabin this time and it was wonderful to immediately start relaxing when we arrived! The cabin was so cozy and inviting.
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J
Joyce
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2
It is a beautiful relaxing place. We spent 2 nights in their room. It was a relaxing weekend end ,with very nice people. So Nice to meet them. And stay in their resort.
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M
May
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Lake View camping
Had an amazing time in the cabin! The surrounding area was extremely scenic and private, the campsite was very clean, and Bill was very responsive. I'd highly recommend booking here!
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Bobbi
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Lake View camping
Enjoyed our girls weekend at this beautiful place, altogether we had 2 RV’s and the Cozy Cabin. A great time was had by all. We fished, kayaked, played games and enjoyed the scenery.
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