The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Tell City, Indiana

Set up your tent along the riverbanks near Tell City—this area offers over 1,300 ways to camp right by the water. Expect sites where you’ll fall asleep to the hum of frogs and wake up with mist on the river. The average night costs $25, but you can snag a spot for as little as $15 if you plan ahead. Travelling with a dog? Most sites are pet-friendly, and you’ll find toilets and fire rings at plenty of campgrounds. Wildlife-watching, hiking, and horseback riding top the list of things to do. Local favorites include Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), MoonLight Grove Farm (92 reviews), and Blue River Retreat (76 reviews)—all praised for their easy river access and room to spread out. You’ll find sites tucked under sycamores, steps from the water, and far from city noise. Pack your boots and binoculars. This stretch of southern Indiana is made for river camping.

98% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tell City

Set up your tent along the riverbanks near Tell City—this area offers over 1,300 ways to camp right by the water. Expect sites where you’ll fall asleep to the hum of frogs and wake up with mist on the river. The average night costs $25, but you can snag a spot for as little as $15 if you plan ahead. Travelling with a dog? Most sites are pet-friendly, and you’ll find toilets and fire rings at plenty of campgrounds. Wildlife-watching, hiking, and horseback riding top the list of things to do. Local favorites include Happy Hollow Homestead (663 reviews), MoonLight Grove Farm (92 reviews), and Blue River Retreat (76 reviews)—all praised for their easy river access and room to spread out. You’ll find sites tucked under sycamores, steps from the water, and far from city noise. Pack your boots and binoculars. This stretch of southern Indiana is made for river camping.

98% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tell City

1. Happy Hollow Homestead

99%

(908)

39mi from Tell City · 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

2. Buck Creek Sanctuary

94%

(57)

41mi from Tell City · 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.

3. Camp Escape

95%

(122)

49mi from Tell City · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Rustic Camping Near Jefferson County Forestry & Tom Wallace Park Welcome to our 5-acre corner lot, a unique mix of rural charm and city convenience. This primitive campsite is perfect for those looking to disconnect and experience nature while still being close to modern amenities. What to Expect: 🌿 Scenic & Secluded – Our property borders Jefferson County Forestry, with an entrance just 1 mile away, offering miles of trails and outdoor adventures. We’re also near Tom Wallace Park, a great spot for hiking and fishing. 🔥 True Off-Grid Camping – This is a bring-your-own-gear site. No water, electricity, or showers—just you, your supplies, and the great outdoors. A fire pit is provided, and there’s a shared porta potty for convenience. 🚜 A Working Farm Community – Expect to see and hear a mix of country and city life. You may hear wildlife, passing trains, tractors, gunfire from Knob Creek Range, and nearby neighbors working their land. It’s all part of the experience of staying in an authentic rural setting. 🏡 Tiny Home Retreat – Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this cozy space offers a peaceful and unique retreat. 🏙️ Convenient Location – Though it feels like a getaway, we’re just 5 minutes from Kroger, Walmart, and a variety of restaurants. Downtown Louisville is a 30-minute drive, and we’re 15 minutes from Fort Knox. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-grid camping adventure close to both nature and the city, this is the spot for you! 🌲🏕️

4. 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

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

6. Tar Springs 2

98%

(32)

13mi from Tell City · 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.

7. Hohl Farms

100%

(8)

20mi from Tell City · 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.

8. Fairhaven Farm Campground

94%

(50)

28mi from Tell City · 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!

9. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%

(124)

26mi from Tell City · 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.

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

11. Pike State Forest

100%

(1)

36 sites · Winslow, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

12. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

26mi from Tell City · 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.

14. Nighthawk Forest

100%

(16)

38mi from Tell City · 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.

15. Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

12mi from Tell City · 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.

16. Willow Pond

98%

(28)

46mi from Tell City · 2 sites · Tents

Enjoy spectacular sunsets as you relax around the well stocked pond located in Hardin County KENTUCKY. ENJOY: Certified organic hay fields 1 acre stocked fish pond Quiet Evenings around fire pit Hikes around the farm Beautiful star gazing Farm harvests Sandhill Crane migration Within 1 hour: Mammoth Cave, Bernheim Forest, Bourbon Trail

Camper favorites near Tell City

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

MoonLight Grove Farm

100%

(124)

26mi from Tell City · 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.

Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

26mi from Tell City · 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)

38mi from Tell City · 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.

Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

12mi from Tell City · 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.

Willow Pond

98%

(28)

46mi from Tell City · 2 sites · Tents

Enjoy spectacular sunsets as you relax around the well stocked pond located in Hardin County KENTUCKY. ENJOY: Certified organic hay fields 1 acre stocked fish pond Quiet Evenings around fire pit Hikes around the farm Beautiful star gazing Farm harvests Sandhill Crane migration Within 1 hour: Mammoth Cave, Bernheim Forest, Bourbon Trail

Public campgrounds near Tell City

Axtel Campground

28mi from Tell City · 153 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

100%

(2)

North Fork Campground

28mi from Tell City · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

Laurel Branch Campground

29mi from Tell City · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

100%

(1)

Cave Creek Campground

30mi from Tell City · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

100%

(1)

Patoka Lake Campground

30mi from Tell City · 445 sites · Tents, RVs · in Patoka Lake

75%

(3)

O'Bannon Woods Campground

32mi from Tell City · 291 sites · Tents, RVs · in O'Bannon Woods State Park

100%

(1)

Pike Campground

35mi from Tell City · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pike State Forest

John James Audubon Campground

44mi from Tell City · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in John James Audubon State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

V

Valerie

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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.

J

Jen

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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!

Liv

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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! ✨

The Cozy Camping Cottage has it's own yard

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.

T

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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.

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!

Aerial view of campsite number three at the very back of 5 acre field. The property borders Jefferson County Memorial Forest city park directly behind

C

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Very peaceful, comfortable and clean! Would definitely go again.!

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.

Our new Tree Web. Hang out 15 feet up in the trees

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Host was very welcoming and accommodating to our time table. Beautiful setting

K

Kevin

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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!

Clara

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Escape

Super cute and private stay. We had a great time.

K

Kathryn

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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 :)

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.

R

Robyn

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The area is just beautiful! We really enjoyed our camping experience here!

R

Raeann

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

Very kind and beautiful property. So relaxing! Would be happy to come back!

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!

M

Mindy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

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!!

J

James

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Hohl Farms

Great guy. Easy place to set up for a night. Beautiful land.

Jen

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hollow Homestead

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.

J

Jim

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Hollow Homestead

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!