The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Van Bibber Lake, Indiana

Set up your tent along the banks of Van Bibber Lake and wake up to the sound of water moving just a few steps from your site. With over 700 riverfront spots to choose from here, you’ll find everything from basic clearings to sites with showers, campfire rings, and toilets. Rates start at $20 a night, with an average stay coming in around $40. Fishing and swimming draw regulars, while wildlife-watching is a quiet highlight—herons and deer are common sights. If you want a tried-and-true spot, check out Stobo Farm (75 reviews), Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp (74 reviews), or Creek’s Bend Camp (43 reviews). This stretch of the lake is proof you don’t need to go far for a solid river camping fix—just bring your gear, pick your patch, and let the water do the rest.

99% (273)

Top-rated campgrounds

Set up your tent along the banks of Van Bibber Lake and wake up to the sound of water moving just a few steps from your site. With over 700 riverfront spots to choose from here, you’ll find everything from basic clearings to sites with showers, campfire rings, and toilets. Rates start at $20 a night, with an average stay coming in around $40. Fishing and swimming draw regulars, while wildlife-watching is a quiet highlight—herons and deer are common sights. If you want a tried-and-true spot, check out Stobo Farm (75 reviews), Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp (74 reviews), or Creek’s Bend Camp (43 reviews). This stretch of the lake is proof you don’t need to go far for a solid river camping fix—just bring your gear, pick your patch, and let the water do the rest.

99% (273)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Celtic Glen Farm Stay

98%

(53)

30mi from Van Bibber Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Spencer, IN

Celtic Glen is a working, 100 acre family farm of heritage breed livestock, nestled in an old limestone quarry on the banks of the White River, on one side, and Fall Creek, on another. Lots of space between campsites and are often all to yourself. Learn about regenerative farming with rare breeds on a farm tour, or mining and wetlands restoration on an ecological history tour. Pet and feed the livestock. Fish and bird-watch. Take a yoga class (at times with goats or bunnies) in the center of the stone henge. Have coffee with goats. Eat farm craft meats, eggs, prepared soups, casseroles, and baked goods, or hop into town for a bite.We are across the river from McCormick's Creek State Park (Indiana's first state park with miles of trails, a swimming pool, and lodge) and just two miles north of Spencer, a small town with an excellent brew pub, winery, cafe, and more. Just 12 miles north of the farm is Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. We are only 20 minutes from Bloomington and Indiana University; 45 minutes from Indianapolis Int'l Airport. This is a working farm with lots of livestock, electric fences, and working dogs, so please leave the farm animals alone unless someone from the farm is available and present. Dogs must be on a leash in the camping area. given the above features of a working livestock farm, the quarry ruins, the operative railroad tracks, and the river (not suitable for swimming), family friendly (children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times). *We have lots of on-farm food and supplies options, please contact us for a complete list and any requests. All sites have a private stone fire circle as well as access to a common grill, handwashing station, porta potty or septic outhouse, cold/solar water shower. *We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options. *Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

2. Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

31mi from Van Bibber Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Gosport, IN

Come and enjoy our private 90-acre retreat, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled in an arch of the White River, this secluded sanctuary boasts two private lakes, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and relaxation. Conveniently located within a short driving distance to Indy, Bloomington, and Southern Indiana, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while still having access to nearby urban amenities. We offer five powered campsites and numerous options for primitive camping lakeside or riverside. Please note that there are no direct water hookups, so be sure to bring your own water for your stay.

3. Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp

100%

(130)

28mi from Van Bibber Lake · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Thorntown, IN

We provide a hands on educational experience with a variety of animals, crafts and farm operations or you can simply relax in a quiet farm setting next to the creek and enjoy the view. Our site is a short 10 minute drive to town or the highway (65 and 74) with the exceptional bonus of peace and tranquility of the country. Farm Experience - $12 per person Farm Store - Onsite Firewood - $5 a bundle

4. Shades State Park

94%

(8)

106 sites · Alamo, Indiana

A shady retreat for hikers, campers, and canoeists just outside the city.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Turkey Run State Park

94%

(25)

211 sites · Marshall, Indiana

Hike through history at this well-appointed state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. The Timbercrest Ranch

98%

(25)

42mi from Van Bibber Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, IN

The land consists of: 100 acres of forest, pastures, four ponds, orchards, hoop house, pavilion area with grill, 150-year-old tobacco barn, gardens, chickens, guineas, turkeys, quail, bees, kune kune pigs and wagyu cattle, stocked pond on absolutely gorgeous rolling hills. The land will take your breathe away. Learn more about this land: Several trails with lots of opportunities to see nature, particularly wild turkey's and deer and the local bison farm.

7. Coop Dreams Farm

100%

(18)

46mi from Van Bibber Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marshall, IL

Currently the Coop Dreams farm from the Coop Dreams TV show. Hiking trails, creeks and woods surround the chicken and goat yard. 5 minutes to quaint little town - 15 minutes to a cool winery - 25 minutes to Terre Haute with restaurants and activities. Indianapolis is about an hour and 15 minutes.

8. Kerr creek

100%

(20)

47mi from Van Bibber Lake · 1 site · RV · Bloomington, IN

Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.

9. Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

41mi from Van Bibber Lake · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

10. Owen-Putnam State Forest

69 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

11. McCormicks Creek State Park

100%

(5)

233 sites · Spencer, Indiana

Welcome to Indiana’s first state park, camping mecca since 1916.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Flint Farm: Attica,IN

92%

(12)

43mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · RVs · Attica, IN

Purchase this piece of land just a year after I graduated high school and thought it would be nice to share itLearn more about this land:Welcome to my 10 acre vacant lot with the beauty of the country side. Site is welcome to campers with tents or rv’s. Camping spot is near the cropland, but left with plenty of room for outdoor activities and room to get setup. There is a railroad that runs along the property so if you think this may bother you then this location isn’t for you. There are nature preserves not far away with public access trails to hike along with great places to eat. Water and electric hookup is available. If interested and would like direct details my number is 765-585-7648. 28 mins away from the Mackey Areana in West Lafayette, 15mins from the Badlands Off Road Park in Attica, 5mins from the Paintball Barn. Located off of a paved road with the privacy of field crops.

13. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

100%

(57)

29mi from Van Bibber Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Universal, IN

This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days. One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.

14. Fort Harrison River Property

100%

(3)

30mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · RVs · Terre Haute, IN

(2) RV spots located right on the Wabash River. $60/day, $350/weekly and $600/biweekly, we will consider monthly. Both RV sites will accommodate a 30-foot RV, one site will accommodate any length RV. Both are equipped with water and sewer hookups, 30/50-amp electrical power, and both have their own picnic table and campfire area.

15. Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

48mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

Camper favorites near Van Bibber Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Squatch Hills

100%

(7)

41mi from Van Bibber Lake · 3 sites · Tents · Worthington, IN

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent ,build yourself a lil fire and enjoy the sounds of nature. You will feel like you're in an extremely secluded place but just minutes from a few small towns. Location is close to both the Eel and White rivers. Plenty of fishing opportunities nearby. Blooomington,Terre Haute and Vincennes all within an hours drive.

Flint Farm: Attica,IN

92%

(12)

43mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · RVs · Attica, IN

Purchase this piece of land just a year after I graduated high school and thought it would be nice to share itLearn more about this land:Welcome to my 10 acre vacant lot with the beauty of the country side. Site is welcome to campers with tents or rv’s. Camping spot is near the cropland, but left with plenty of room for outdoor activities and room to get setup. There is a railroad that runs along the property so if you think this may bother you then this location isn’t for you. There are nature preserves not far away with public access trails to hike along with great places to eat. Water and electric hookup is available. If interested and would like direct details my number is 765-585-7648. 28 mins away from the Mackey Areana in West Lafayette, 15mins from the Badlands Off Road Park in Attica, 5mins from the Paintball Barn. Located off of a paved road with the privacy of field crops.

Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

100%

(57)

29mi from Van Bibber Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Universal, IN

This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days. One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.

Fort Harrison River Property

100%

(3)

30mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · RVs · Terre Haute, IN

(2) RV spots located right on the Wabash River. $60/day, $350/weekly and $600/biweekly, we will consider monthly. Both RV sites will accommodate a 30-foot RV, one site will accommodate any length RV. Both are equipped with water and sewer hookups, 30/50-amp electrical power, and both have their own picnic table and campfire area.

Harmony Hills

100%

(4)

48mi from Van Bibber Lake · 2 sites · Tents · Bloomington, IN

Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana our forested property offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Camp under mature forest, hike the trails, or sit by the stream. This is a working farm with sheep on pasture as well as a horse and a pig which you might get to see during your stay. Note: there is traffic noise from nearby highway 69.

Public campgrounds near Van Bibber Lake

94%

(8)

Shades Campground

16mi from Van Bibber Lake · 106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shades State Park

94%

(25)

Turkey Run Campground

18mi from Van Bibber Lake · 211 sites · Tents, RVs · in Turkey Run State Park

Horse Campground

25mi from Van Bibber Lake · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Rattlesnake Campground

32mi from Van Bibber Lake · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

100%

(5)

McCormicks Creek Campground

32mi from Van Bibber Lake · 233 sites · Tents, RVs · in McCormicks Creek State Park

Fish Creek Campground

37mi from Van Bibber Lake · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Owen-Putnam State Forest

Stories from the community

m

mike

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

My boyfriend and I stayed here for a short-notice camping trip, and we’re so glad we chose this farm. We booked the upper vista site and it was peaceful, secluded, and beautifully tucked away.. exactly what we were hoping for. Even though we arrived later than planned, Phil and Lessie were incredibly nice, welcoming, and understanding. The next morning we woke up to the sound of Highland cows and a few donkeys, which was both funny and surprisingly relaxing. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee by the fire while taking it all in. We were greeted by the owners’ sweet, friendly dogs, and later got to tour the farm. It was so much fun seeing the goats, Highland cows, donkeys, and especially watching their cattle dog proudly show off his herding skills. Lessie shared so much interesting information about the farm and the history behind the animals, you can tell she truly loves what she does. Overall our stay was amazing, peaceful, and refreshing. We’ve already planned to come back, and next time we’re bringing our kids and family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a unique farm experience!

J

Juan

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private

Z

Zack

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Great tent site! Great communication with Leslie. Would go again

d

david

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Low stress place to camp. Nice fire ring! Bathroom basic, but very, very clean! Dogs nearby were quiet at night and not bothersome generally.

J

October 2025

45 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Dirt Weapon Ranch

Pros: RV electric hookups. Clean onsite bathroom with running water, sink, flushing toilet and shower. Nice well maintained camping sites (tent and RV). Plenty of land to roam and enjoy nature. Beautiful views of the lakes, nature and wildlife. Cons: Limited number of firepits. All 5 RV sites share one firepit. Not a real issue if you're the only one there but not great if there are other groups booked on site. Some of the camping sites have firepits but not all of them. Lakes have some junk in them, tires, etc. There is overflow from the river so when it floods the river flows into the lakes and it brings along the trash with it. It wasn't too bad but does give you pause when considering swimming or fishing. Overall: We had a great trip and will book here again. The pro's outweigh the cons and it was a lot of fun getting away for a weekend with friends.

B

Bradley

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had a fabulous time! The campsite was nice and secluded. My wife appreciated the flushing outhouse. What is really special is the farm, so make sure to have some coffee with goats and do a farm tour if you have the time!

M

Macky

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp

We loved staying at the farm! So many friendly animals to meet, and Forest and Jennifer were welcoming and generous with their time.

C

Caroline

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had the whole space to ourselves. The stars were magical and waking up with the dew on the greenery was so special.

A

Aimee

October 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp

Absolutely loved staying here! I car camp with my agility dogs and was looking for somewhere to stay while in the area competing. Sometimes it's hard to find a place that a) allows dogs and b) allows people to sleep in their cars and c) has spots you can drive into. This fit all the bills so I was really happy to be able to stay! Forrest met me at the gate and we talked farm animals, chickens, ducks... he showed me the camping area and gave me a choice of a few areas. I got set up in a nice spot that was easy to get into and out of because I leave very early (read: very dark!) in the morning for the start of our competitions. It's quiet and private, even though there were some other campers. LOTS of space, so even in the area I was setting up in, I had the room to find some nice level ground to park. I was gone much of the day and early to bed both nights I stayed, but the farm looks incredible and no doubt the farm tour would provide an amazing experience if you have kids. There's a huge variety of farm animals! Easy to find with a sign right on the main road to steer you in. Outhouse on the property is always a big benefit! Loved staying here and will definitely be back!

Maeve

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp

This was our second stay at this farm. Jennifer and Forest were very caring and accommodating in the way that reminds me of Jesus. What I love about their farm is that you can tell how animals are loved & cared for and you can tell it by how friendly animals are. My kids loved to lead the “chicken army” that followed them.

M

Meg

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

We had a great time at Upper Vista! It was a beautiful and quiet place to relax. We will be back!

C

Caroline

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

So cozy and everything is ready to go in the cabin for a great night!

N

Naomi

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Will definitely be back! Highly recommend going at night to the stone henge to watch the stars.

J

Jeff

October 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp

Very nice farm atmosphere , I parked in a small meadow surrounded by farm fields . The hosts were great and very welcoming. Would stay here again for sure if I am in the area again.

jim

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Lovely quiet spot. Stayed in the little cabin. Comfortable.

B

Ben

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Upper vista was a great camping site. Plenty of fire wood! Incredible hospitality- the coffee was superb and so was the apple cake. Seeing the farm in action was a fantastic experience.

C

Collin

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Lessie and Phil are awesome! They made sure to check in to see if we needed anything. The property was beautiful and fun to explore. The farm tour and time with goats was well worth it for all ages. We will be back!

Walking the path to the barn/babatjeoo (can’t see it from the campsite)

M

Megan

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Timbercrest Ranch

Great camping spot! Hosts were very responsive and helpful. Spot is beautiful and private! We stayed by the pavilion & pond. The property is big so I imagine even if others are there, there would still be plenty of privacy. The bathroom (on the back side of the barn) was nice to have - 3 min walk. Kids fished & caught/released a bunch, hung the hammocks, made dinner/breakfast using the grate over the fire. Would love to come back again!

D

Dani

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Such a wonderful find for those who enjoy tent camping! The whole environment was wonderful! It felt primitive but we still had access to a Porta potty, hand washing station, and water. Pro tip: buy some of the baked goods offered! Lessie is a wonderful baker. (Just an fyi: You do hear animals during the night - dogs from the humane society and cows, etc. from the farm. It didn't bother us, but if you need quiet to sleep soundly, bring ear plugs)