The best camping near Owen-Putnam State Forest
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Owen-Putnam adventure.
Discover the natural splendor of Owen-Putnam State Forest.
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Community favorites near Owen-Putnam State Forest
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
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Stay at a public campground in Owen-Putnam State Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near Owen-Putnam State Forest
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Loesch Farm Eclipse Camping
172 sites · RVs, Tents68 acres · Bloomington, IN
Our farm is situated less than one mile from the centerline of totality, offering 68 beautiful and rolling acres of woodland and organic pasture on the outskirts of Bloomington, Indiana. Just an 11-minute drive from the center of downtown and Indiana University, our farm is conveniently located on the Karst Farm Greenway trail, and only 5 minutes from Interstate 69.
In addition to hosting community gardens and private parties, we're excited to provide a place to celebrate the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse. We're located less than 1 km from the centerline, and we'll be hosting a free public gathering on Eclipse day. It's a near perfect spot to witness the eclipse, with big sky views and room to spread out. Bloomington is rich with musicianship, and our brilliant local players Atom Heart Mother will perform Pink Floyd’s "Dark Side of the Moon" in its entirety, starting at 11:30 AM on Monday. Don't be late for the show.
Camping is available for those traveling in for the eclipse at a nominal fee of $25 per vehicle, whether it's a tent or RV. Please note that camping is primitive; we don’t have any hook-ups or services besides porta-johns. However, the area is beautiful, safe, and quiet. Services can be found in Ellettsville, just five minutes away, and Bloomington, just 10 minutes away. Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime eclipse experience. I think you'll be happy that you did. :-)
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Eclipse 🌚living Legacy Paylake
76 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Spencer, IN
well-stocked fishing lake/bait house, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities.
The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge and enjoy the stocked 3.5 acre lake. A great day of camping fishing and breath takeing views to see a once in a life time experience
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Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake
156 sites · RVs, Tents39 acres · Spencer, IN
Experience the beauty of nature at this charming location, brimming with life. Nestled beside a renowned, well-stocked fishing lake, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, the property offers easy turnarounds for RVs and Semis. Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities.
Small tents are welcome with the purchase of a 12-hour fishing pass, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Additionally, The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge in a memorable stay surrounded by nature and convenient amenities.
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Dirt Weapon Ranch
10 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · 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.
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Laurita's Casa Vieja
8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Bloomington, IN
The farm is located 15 minutes west of Indiana Universities Memorial Stadium. The property is nice and private. The farm adjoins the 75 acre Stranger Hills Organic farm, the oldest organic farm in Indiana. Our 1899 Farmhouse is the only residence on the entire farm. There is a 3000 acre farm to our south. The area is quiet and very private. The campsites are in a grassy walnut grove by a small creek that runs along the eastern border of the property. We have a white deer creek cabin tent on a platform there and 3 or 4 nice level campsites to the north. There is a shaded RV site at the top of a small hill with 30 amp service. We can accomadate a large RV on packed gravel with 50 amp serice. the farm is located 15 minutes east of McCormicks Creek State Park. There is a porti -potty and a bag shower in a small building adjacent to the campsites. There is a YMCA about five minutes East of the property.
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Celtic Glen Farm Stay
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Spencer, IN
Celtic Glen is a working, 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. 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, horseback riding, 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), children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times.
Nearby fun and food:
We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2 miles of lots of options:
Many events happen on the Spencer town square (including Spencer Pride events); and at the Owen County Fairgrounds which are actually in town along the White River and hosts events such as the White River Poultry Show.
Historic Tivoli Theatre with big-screen movies and more just off the square
Hilltop Family Restaurant (vintage style family restaurant less than 2 miles north off 231)
Owen Valley Winery –good food as well (often free live music)
Stable Studios music venue (12 miles from farm)
Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub (family friendly space, amazing food and beer and craft soda)
Main Street Coffee and Kitchen –a gorgeous café with breakfast and lunch (including Bivi’s tamales)
Millie McGee’s Gosport Diner –amazing comfort food in a charming super-small town just across the river (drive north on 231 then east in 67; 23 E Main St, Gosport; 8 miles from the farm)
McCormick’s Creek State Park: Canyon Inn for dining, lots of trails, pool in the summer, horse stables
Cataract Falls State Recreation Area just north off 231 –really lovely waterfall (13 miles)
Green’s Bluff Nature Preserve (Nature Conservancy; 9 miles from farm)
Other locally-owned eating: Babs supermarket and deli, Crossroads 46 Diner, Papi Chulo’s Cantina, Jit’s Thai Bistro on square, Chambers buffet on square, Grand’s Ice Cream, Sweet Valley Ice Cream.
Of course, Bloomington is just 20 minutes away with lots to offer.
McCormick's Creek State Park
Owen Valley Winery
Green's Bluff Nature Preserve
Exotic Feline Rescue Center
Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Indiana University
Hoosier National Forest
Tulip Trestle
Please ask if there is something specific you’d like to find.
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Happy Campers Campground
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Brazil, IN
We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have
5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an
1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available.
Seasonal shower house and porta potty. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! We also have bathrooms and a new shower house now! Open now.
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Peak Animal Sanctuary
7 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Freedom, IN
Peak animal sanctuary is a non-profit vegan sanctuary that is home to 44 farm animals that have been rescued from neglect situations and/or factory farms. We are located on 65 beautiful acres in Owen County Indiana. We will be in full totality of the 2024 solar eclipse on 4/8/24. We do require that anyone who chooses to camp on our property has to adhere to our "vegan only" policy while onsite and not bring or consume any animal/fish or dairy products while on the property. For the safety of our animals and guests, visitors are not permitted to enter any of the animal enclosure areas without a staff member. We do offer a short tour and introduction for a small donation. We also have 2 Airbnb rooms that are listed on our website. If you'd like to know more about our property, please check out our website:
https://www.peakanimalsanctuary.org
or visit our Facebook page
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The Timbercrest Ranch
3 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 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.
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Howling Moon Homestead
3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Spencer, IN
We are a small farm using regenerative practices and permaculture ethics. We are still early on in our journey of working with the land. Our land has been part of our family's homestead for close to one hundred years.
Enjoy walks around the farm where you'll find many places to relax, meditate or simply enjoy the views. Guided tours can be arranged and you can explore the gardens, orchard, different methods of raising chickens.
We're always building and trying new things to optimize our property and care for the land.
There are many great restaurants only 20 minutes away including Mexican, Thai, a brew pub, a winery and a great coffee shop.
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Little Nashville Bee Company
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Nashville, IN
Little Nashville Bee Company sits on 14 beautiful acres in the hills Southern Brown County. Enjoy a relaxing day fishing in our small pond, hiking, wildlife watching, stargazing, firefly catching, bonfires, and so much more!
Come visit the farm and stay with us! We have primitive tent camping and RV sites with water hookup (sorry, no electic or septic at this time).
Little Nashville Bee Company is a developing farm that started in 2022. If you're looking for privacy, you won't find a better place in Brown County, Indiana. The farm currently features an apiary, vegetable garden, small orchard, pond, and creek. Fishing is permitted in our pond.
*If you are bringing a large camper or RV please pick Sunshine Daydream or Sugar Magnolia.*The Ripple is about 75 yards into the woods away from the parking space.*Fire on the Mountain and Franklin's Tower are approximately 100 yards uphill. Please be prepared for a hike to Fire on the Mountain and Franklin's Tower. It's worth it! We can assist with getting your gear up the hill with our ATV, but unfortunately, we do not have the resources to move people to the top of the hill.*
Please note: We are an active honeybee farm and bees will be buzzing around. I can not guarentee they will not sting, but I live here full time and have never been stung outside of opening a hive. So please be aware if you are allergic.
We are perfectly situated among the trees with very little light pollution and minutes from all the things that make Brown County, IN a destination for folks from all over the country!
Brown County Music Center: 11 minutes
Brown County State Park: 8 minutes
Hard Truth Distilling Co.: 11 minutes
Bear Wallow Distillery: 10 minutes
Brown County Winery: 10 minutes
Over 200 shops and restaurants in Nashville:: 12 minutes
Brown County Playhouse: 12 minutes
eXplore Brown County: 5 minutes
Yellowwood State Forest: 25 minutes
Bill Monroe Music Park: 19 minutes
Story Inn: 11 minutes
TC Steele State Historic Site: 24 minutes
Tecumseh Tell: 38 minutes
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Squatch Hills
3 sites · Tents38 acres · 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.
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The best camping near Owen-Putnam State Forest guide
Overview
About
Stop your puttering around and get on down to Owen-Putnam State Forest before the season passes you by. Get up close and personal with the beauty of the hardwood forests and hills of south central Indiana. You can choose between three different camping areas within the forest, so you can fish for that perfect spot. Trails are waiting to be explored either on foot, mountain bike, or horse. Don’t forget to scope out the 50-foot sandstone bluff from the trails. Why not bring along the fishing rod and try to snag some dinner in one of the ponds while you’re at it? Sounds like a pretty sweet way to spend a few days off.
Notable campgrounds
- Fish Creek Campground: Offers 14 sites with available water, nestled in the heart of the forest.
- Horse Campground: Features 15 sites with a water trough, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts.
- Rattlesnake Campground: Provides 9 primitive sites for a secluded escape into nature.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Arrive early, as campsites are first-come, first-serve, and be ready to self-register at the campground booths.
- Check the fees page beforehand to ensure you have the correct payment for camping fees.
- During peak seasons, consider weekdays for better chances at securing a spot.
- Explore nearby camping options in case the campgrounds are full upon your arrival.
When to go
The best time to visit Owen-Putnam State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter can be beautiful but challenging due to snow and cold conditions.
Know before you go
- Wear bright clothing during hunting seasons for safety while hiking or horseback riding.
- Check for any advisories or closures before your visit to ensure all areas are accessible.
- Remember, Rattlesnake and Horse campgrounds do not have drinking water; bring your own or collect it from the Forest Office.
- Be mindful of private property boundaries to avoid trespassing while enjoying the forest.
- For mountain biking, ensure you have the required off-road cycling permit and stick to marked trails.
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