99% (985) • 25 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
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Buck Creek Sanctuary
2. Buck Creek Sanctuary
94%
(58)
48mi from Santa Claus · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves.
“There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places”
-Wendell Berry
Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred.
Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives
Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet.
He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others
to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$10
/ night
Tar Springs 2
3. 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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Pike State Forest
4. Pike State Forest
100%
(1)
36 sites · Winslow, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Patoka Lake
5. 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
MoonLight Grove Farm
6. MoonLight Grove Farm
100%
(124)
31mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Fairhaven Farm Campground
7. Fairhaven Farm Campground
94%
(51)
27mi from Santa Claus · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hohl Farms
8. Hohl Farms
100%
(8)
6.7mi from Santa Claus · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Little Blue Horse Camp
9. Little Blue Horse Camp
100%
(48)
27mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$29
/ night
O'Bannon Woods State Park
10. 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
John James Audubon State Park
11. John James Audubon State Park
87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky
Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rough River Lake
12. Rough River Lake
60%
(5)
355 sites · Caneyville, Kentucky
Boasting rocky shorelines, verdant outcroppings, and tranquil waters, Rough River Lake is a stunning getaway for you and your closest friends. About 90 miles south of Louisville, it's far enough away from civilization to get a breath of fresh air, but close enough not to be too inconvenient. If you're really rarin' to explore, try hitting up the sandy beaches built for swimming and boat launches that are just waiting for your vessel. Hiking and interpretive trails are the perfect place to keep an eye out for wildlife, and no one will fault you for wanting to take a swing at the 18-hole golf course. With the historic Green Farm nearby, you can check out a large ancestral home and water-powered mill sitting on 3,000 miles of picturesque land. Pretty sweet deal, we've gotta say.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nighthawk Forest
13. Nighthawk Forest
100%
(16)
33mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Backer Half Hundred Acres
14. 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
99% (985) • 25 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
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Buck Creek Sanctuary
2. Buck Creek Sanctuary
94%
(58)
48mi from Santa Claus · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves.
“There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places”
-Wendell Berry
Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred.
Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives
Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet.
He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others
to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$10
/ night
Tar Springs 2
3. 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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Pike State Forest
4. Pike State Forest
100%
(1)
36 sites · Winslow, Indiana
Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Patoka Lake
5. 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
MoonLight Grove Farm
6. MoonLight Grove Farm
100%
(124)
31mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
Fairhaven Farm Campground
7. Fairhaven Farm Campground
94%
(51)
27mi from Santa Claus · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hohl Farms
8. Hohl Farms
100%
(8)
6.7mi from Santa Claus · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Little Blue Horse Camp
9. Little Blue Horse Camp
100%
(48)
27mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$29
/ night
O'Bannon Woods State Park
10. 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
John James Audubon State Park
11. John James Audubon State Park
87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky
Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rough River Lake
12. Rough River Lake
60%
(5)
355 sites · Caneyville, Kentucky
Boasting rocky shorelines, verdant outcroppings, and tranquil waters, Rough River Lake is a stunning getaway for you and your closest friends. About 90 miles south of Louisville, it's far enough away from civilization to get a breath of fresh air, but close enough not to be too inconvenient. If you're really rarin' to explore, try hitting up the sandy beaches built for swimming and boat launches that are just waiting for your vessel. Hiking and interpretive trails are the perfect place to keep an eye out for wildlife, and no one will fault you for wanting to take a swing at the 18-hole golf course. With the historic Green Farm nearby, you can check out a large ancestral home and water-powered mill sitting on 3,000 miles of picturesque land. Pretty sweet deal, we've gotta say.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nighthawk Forest
13. Nighthawk Forest
100%
(16)
33mi from Santa Claus · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Backer Half Hundred Acres
14. 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
K
Kathryn
3 weeks ago
Tent
Kerry was very accommodating on our last minute trip! The property was beautiful & interesting & we loved exploring during our low key over night stay. We’ll definitely come back!
See more
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.
See more
J
Jen
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Kerry was a phenomenal host with prompt details messages about local hikes and cave expeditions. He was patience with our staggered arrival. The creativity that goes into how the land is cultivated is clear.
The suspended string platform was so zen being surrounded by a perfect autumn mosaic.
The puppies and pigs on the property were so friendly and polite.
We will be back!
See more
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! ✨
See more
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.
See more
T
Timothy
October 2025
Tent
Kerry was kind, helpful, and the communication was great! This was a beautiful and comfortable environment. We felt safe and welcomed here. The land is beautiful and there is plenty to explore. At night the stars really stand out, great place to sit out by the campfire. You might get so lucky to have a visit from Jersey (the neighborhood dog) who was very friendly and not at all aggressive.
See more
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
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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Steve
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Host was very welcoming and accommodating to our time table. Beautiful setting
See more
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!
See moreK
Kathryn
October 2025
Tent
We really enjoyed our time in the black walnut grove! I’ll be honest and say, we didn’t consider the implications of being in a walnut grove when leaves (and walnuts) are falling, and they fall from very tall trees. But we didn’t run into any issues with it, bedsides an occasional jump scare lol. It was quiet and private, while also having Kerry on property for any issues or questions we might have had. He was extremely accommodating and prompt with responses. I would gladly return to his property for another trip :)
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R
River
October 2025
Tent
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.
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R
Robyn
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
The area is just beautiful! We really enjoyed our camping experience here!
See moreR
Raeann
October 2025
Group trip
Very kind and beautiful property. So relaxing! Would be happy to come back!
See more
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!
See moreM
Mindy
October 2025
Tent
The property is soooo cool. The rock formations were amazing. The history of the land is worth researching. Van was the friendliest of hosts and their puppy hosts was also very friendly. ❤️ 10/10 recommend. Thank you so much!!
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J
James
October 2025
Jen
October 2025
Tent
Ghe property was beautiful and has a lot of really unique sleeping quarters, as well as some very unique little areas sprinkled throughout the property. Kerry was super nice and has a good sense of humor. He was very direct and helpful, and then left us to enjoy our time on his property. We didn't need to reach out, but he did leave his inbox open in case we needed anything during our stay. The camp site were the most spacious and spread out that I have personally come across, leaving plenty of privacy. We absolutely loved our stay here at the Homestead.
See moreJ
Jim
October 2025
18 ft campervan
I was only on this wonderful Land for one evening & morning. It's beauty, calmness, & positive vibrations is impactful.
Easy to find.
Host are as cool as they come.
Everything is clean, locatable, & it's a safe & comfortable space.
Artist, creative thinkers, and ponderers, will immediately be inspired upon arrival!
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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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