The best camping in Deam Lake State Recreation Area, IN

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100% (3)

Find your lake life vibes in southern Indiana. 

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Deam Lake State Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Deam Lake State Recreation Area

Deam Lake State Recreation Area

1. Deam Lake State Recreation Area

100%
(3)
Campground in Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 215 sites · Tents, RVs
We have full confidence you will boat around Deam Lake State Recreation Area like a total boss
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Electrical hookup
Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Deam Lake State Recreation Area

Rockytop Family Farms

1. Rockytop Family Farms

97%
(53)
7.2mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
**25 Minutes north of Louisville, KY** ________________________________________ RV Site on our family land. 30 AND 50 amp electric, water, sewer. Fire-pit with seating, free firewood provided. Trash can provided. Next-door to Yankeetown Area/indoor roping arena. If you participate in the rodeo at Yankeetown, utilize our site with hookups for your horse trailer! Nearby access to the Knobstone trail access point. Just a few miles away from LM Sugarbush; Indiana's largest annual Maple Syrup Festival. Long gravel driveway; 1/4 mile or more off of State Rd 160. We border the Clark-State Forestry. We have a small farm pond that's full of fish; no license required. Bring your fishing pole and have fun! Expect to hear chickens, guineas, pigs, dogs barking, kids playing. You may hear a tractor, lawn mower, or gator ATV go by as we are always busy doing something. Your pets are welcome, but keep in mind that this property is patrolled by two large Great Pyrenees dogs, and while they are friendly to people, they are territorial and have been aggressive towards other dogs until they become friends. For the safety of all the dogs, your pets must be contained/on a leash at least until all of the dogs can get to know each other. We are 5 miles from I-65, and 19 miles north of Louisville, KY. Verizon phone/data service is good; can't confirm others.
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Full hookups
Derby City Oasis

2. Derby City Oasis

95%
(30)
19mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our private, tree-lined 16-site Hipcamp property in a quiet, high-privacy setting for an urban area. All 16 campsites are flat/level and welcome every style of camping—tents, cars, trucks, small trailers, and more. Large RVs are best suited for Sites 1–6 and 13–16. **Shared facilities available May 1st – November 1st:** - One porta-potty - One or two hasty outdoor showers Water fill and trash service at the house - Wi-Fi available only at Sites 1–6 The property features a mix of shaded wooded spots, open field camping, and sunny dog-park-adjacent sites. Be considerate of fellow campers, especially in the off-leash dog park area. Nearly three fully fenced acres of manicured turf with plenty of shade from mature trees. Enjoy a private, secure entrance with a combo lock for sites 13-16. A 15/30A electric hookup is available near the main house, along with access to a water hose. The property includes multiple dog-agility features and obstacles for your pups to enjoy and a couple of shady seating areas for the humans too. A shared patio area with a fan, seating, and a fire ring is also available. (fire rings at most campsites also) Churchill Downs is only a 10-minute walk away. Multiple restaurants, a grocery store, a laundromat, and a hardware store are all less than a 5-minute walk. Drone video of property https://youtu.be/oo6OIdccrZY?si=VptnAiSTWWpMgbTF Other platforms George's Private Dog Park In Louisville https://www.sniffspot.com/to/ub0k6 *Please note*: This is a secure urban Hipcamp extremely close to Churchill Downs, University of Louisville, and the Kentucky State Fairgrounds. The majority of the property is fenced with six-foot commercial chain-link topped with barbed wire along the tree line. Access is through an electric gate secured at night, and the property owner (a law enforcement officer) lives on-site. Once you pull onto the property, it feels extremely private — most guests say their opinion changes completely. Check the drone video for a full view. If you arrive and still feel uncomfortable after speaking with the owner, you’ll get a full refund, no questions asked.
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Ambers Acres

3. Ambers Acres

96%
(25)
19mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site
Hi Hipcampers! This two camper site offers full water, sewer, and electric hookups. Want to see a working farm? Want to wake up to animals grazing? Come stay at Ambers Acres! The pasture your ssite is nestled in, has goats and possibly cows at all times! That doesn’t mean you won’t see rabbits and squirrels running around also! Keep an eye out for the occasional turkey and deer also! We are just a few miles from the Old Mill Canoe Rental on the Blue River, Buffalo Trace Park, and Cave Country Canoe rentals.
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Full hookups
The Farm at Grace Hill

4. The Farm at Grace Hill

100%
(10)
23mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
The Farm at Grace Hill is a living, breathing sanctuary — a blend of history, healing, and heart. It’s not just land; it’s a place where people, animals, and nature reconnect. The property holds deep roots, both literally and spiritually. At the soul of the farm is the herd — a group of special-needs and retired horses who have found peace and purpose here. They’re not “working” animals; they’re partners in transformation. The land feels like a retreat from the modern world: rolling Kentucky pastures framed by mature trees, the gentle rhythm of wind, birdsong, and horses grazing. There’s a sacred stillness in the mornings and a golden warmth in the evenings. Every detail — from the renovated 1977 Airstream tucked near the paddocks to the gardens and cozy corners — reflects intention, creativity, and care. It’s a space that invites both freedom and grounding, perfect for reflection, restoration, and inspiration.
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Electrical hookup
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Hidden Valley River Camp

5. Hidden Valley River Camp

99%
(226)
23mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites
Beautiful valley on the Ohio River with 300 feet of beach front, private boat dock, covered 20x30 community pavilion and a large fire pit. A beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. Learn more about this land: Beautiful private Valley setting on the Ohio River with private boat dock. Creek bed with rocks and fossils. 2 covered pavillions and fire pit and eagles and wildlife There is a mile gravel road and steep hill is why no rv's. Cars and trucks have no problems. Children MUST be supervised by an adult and MUST wear life jackets while swimming and near the water also MUST wear shoes on the beach and while in the water.
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Nightfall Farm

6. Nightfall Farm

100%
(85)
25mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site
We're bringing my family farm back to life. My parents farmed here until the 1980's, but couldn't make a profit with corn and soybeans. My husband, Nate, and I moved home in 2014, and started turning the fields into pastures. Today, we run Nightfall Farm, raise animals with respect, and sell pasture-raised meat locally. Come wander the 125 acres of woods, wetlands, and farm. Check out the animals in our pastures, and walk along the Muscatatuck River. Enjoy a quiet fire. Hear the roar of frogs calling in Spring. Chase fireflies. Behold a family farm coming back to life.
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Potable water
Buck Creek Sanctuary

7. Buck Creek Sanctuary

95%
(75)
26mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 15 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.
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Happy Hollow Homestead

8. Happy Hollow Homestead

99%
(970)
27mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 23 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
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Festival Ready: Camp Escape

9. Festival Ready: Camp Escape

96%
(202)
28mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 Secluded Camping & Tiny Home Retreat Near Jefferson Memorial Forest 🌲 Two ways to stay, one unforgettable escape. Choose from four private primitive campsites on 5 gated acres bordering Jefferson Memorial Forest, or our cozy Glam Camp tiny home on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. 🏕️ The campsites Cypress, Sycamore, Black Walnut, and Willow: four secluded creekside sites, each spaced out so you feel like you have the woods to yourself. Tents, car camping, and RVs welcome. Generators allowed. 🔥 Primitive camping True off-grid camping: no water, electricity, or showers. Bring your gear and your sense of adventure. We provide a fire pit, a clean porta potty, and a self-service firewood shed on site. 🏡 The Glam Camp tiny home Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Inside: mini split heating and cooling ❄️, fully equipped kitchen, cozy colorful touches, high-speed Wi-Fi 📶, and upgraded windows. Outside: patio with cozy seating, outdoor gas fire, and a cute bar table. Pet friendly 🐾. Stargaze ✨, play outdoor games, or just breathe in the fresh air. 🌾 The setting A working rural community. You will hear wildlife 🦌, passing trains 🚂, tractors, and occasional distant sounds from Knob Creek Range. It is an authentic slice of Kentucky country life, and our guests tell us it is part of the charm. 📍 Location Secluded but never stranded: 5 min to Kroger, Walmart, and restaurants 🛒. 5 min to Planet Fitness for a hot shower 🚿. 2 min to gas ⛽. 30 min to downtown Louisville, 15 min to Fort Knox. Tom Wallace Park nearby for hiking and fishing, with forest trails 1 mile from our entrance. 🔒 Gated entrance for privacy and peace of mind. Campsites: check in after 4 PM, out by 11 AM. Come unplug. The trees are waiting 🌲✨
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Hones Pointe Campground

10. Hones Pointe Campground

97%
(938)
31mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout. Welcome!
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Brambleberry Permaculture Farm

11. Brambleberry Permaculture Farm

100%
(17)
31mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 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.
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Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

12. Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%
(110)
33mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 4 sites
Our cabins sits on 100 acres. Our cabins have AC/Heat. A dry sink are in each cabin are provided. Roast hotdogs over your private fire pit as a fire pit is just outside the cabin along with private picnic table. We have a shower bathroom house. You provide your own towel, and soap products. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under your control at all times. Privy's are found just outside the cabin. We have miles of hiking trails and several spring fed creeks so take your hiking boots off and wade in the clean cool water. Stars are in abundance at Guthrie Meadows so star gazing is a must!
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MoonLight Grove Farm

13. MoonLight Grove Farm

100%
(130)
34mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites
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.
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Little Blue Horse Camp

14. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%
(57)
36mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site
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.
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Nighthawk Forest

15. Nighthawk Forest

100%
(20)
36mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 2 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.
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Persimmon Honey Hollow

16. Persimmon Honey Hollow

95%
(29)
41mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Cozy ramshackle farmstead in the Hoosier Hills offer a chance to get up close and personal with the land, through camping, and hiking through the woods. The pet goats wander freely, and the wild turkeys do the same. Not only is Hoosier National Forest located both to the north and south for hiking and trail riding, but just 3 miles away is the Rise of Lost River at Orangeville, a natural landmark. Spring Mill State park is located about 20 minutes away in Mitchell, IN, while Patoka Lake is about 15 minutes south of nearby French Lick. For those interested in farmers' markets, Orange County Homegrown markets run Saturday at Orleans(10 miles away) from 8am-noon, and in French Lick 7 miles) from 4-8pm.
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Old Camp At Bear Hollow

17. Old Camp At Bear Hollow

100%
(13)
42mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site
This electric campsite is near Hoosier National Forest. This area was established as hunting grounds by our family over 30 years ago and still is to this day. Create your own family tradition in this campsite that is ready for two campers on a total of 160ft gravel space. There is both 30 and 50 AMP electric, however no water or sewer hookup. You must provide your own water. There is a dump station 5 miles from the campsite at Tipsaw Recreation Area. This area is great for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and ATV riding....or just relaxing and taking in nature in this beautiful and peaceful area. *30 & 50 AMP Electric *Shade trees *Picnic table *Firepit & Firewood *NO water hookup *NO sewer hookup
Electrical hookup
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Sleeping Bear Retreat

18. Sleeping Bear Retreat

95%
(22)
42mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 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.
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Fire pit creek side

19. Fire pit creek side

98%
(40)
45mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: A quaint creek side retreat with a fire pit! Enjoy views and sounds of the creek from your campsite. Expect to see families of turkeys, deer, turtles, many beautiful birds and more! Chill out or walk along the creek Along our driveway as we work to grow our organic farm homestead. ** please note we have a few site options for camping which we are happy to tell you more about! Large RVs and campers are welcome but will likely want to stay in the area before our bridge (we are happy to send pictures). Long campers and RVs that are low to the ground may scrape / bottom out going across the bridge. WARNING: The driveway leading to the campsite is a long, steep, gravel driveway with a concrete bridge at the bottom. The bridge also has fairly steep embankments on both sides (entering and exiting) with a turn heading into the site. A 4WD vehicle will be necessary for anyone pulling an RV as we have had at least one guest get stuck halfway up the hill when exiting with a two-wheeled truck with a V8 engine pulling a small RV. In addition, you will likely need a brake-control system installed for coming down the hill. Front-wheel drive vehicles with high clearance should be satisfactory to cross the bridge and exit the steep hill as long as you are not pulling an RV. Please don't hesitate to reach out with specific questions! We operate on a first come first serve basis and promise to get back to you asap!
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Cedar Trail

20. Cedar Trail

97%
(37)
47mi from Deam Lake State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our charming rural RV campsite! Grocery store & dining are 10 minutes away from the site. Gas station & interstate are 6 minutes from the site. Hiking is 8 minutes from the site. We offer two back-in spaces available—one to the west and one to the east of a new barn, ready for you to back in. With 50 and 30 amp hookups and serene surroundings, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature's beauty.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Deam Lake State Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

Dreaming of the lake life? Hit the beach and waters of Deam Lake State Recreation Area in southern Indiana. The 194-acre lake serves as a backdrop—or focal point—for a range of outdoor activities. Paddle around quiet coves or hit the open waters in a larger boat (electric motors are allowed). Relax in the sands on the swim beach. Not far from the waters, the campground has over 100 campsites for RVs and tents and 19 Rent-a-Camp cabins. This place is a horse-lover’s dream (appropriate for its location just outside of Louisville, Kentucky), offering equestrian campsites with facilities for your horses to camp, too.

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Campsites may be reserved up to six months in advance through Reserve America or the Indiana State Park website or by phoning 1-866-622-6746.
  2. All sites have electric hookups. Water is not available at individual campsites, but spigots are located in the campground.
  3. The campground is open year round, with limited services from November through April. Water spigots may be shut off and modern restrooms closed during these months. Water service resumes in the spring based on weather forecasts.
  4. Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.

When to go

Though Deam Lake State Recreation Area is located in Indiana, the park is fewer than 20 miles from Louisville, Kentucky. The Kentucky Derby brings a lot of excitement to the region the first Saturday each May, which might make it a great time to come to Deam Lake or a bad time, depending on your preferences. Summer is the primary peak season, thanks to plentiful lake activities. Expect hot and humid weather. Temperatures are cooler in spring and fall, with winter bringing freezing weather and the chance for snow.

Know before you go

  • Rowboats and kayaks may be rented onsite between Memorial Day and Labor Day on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
  • The swim beach is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
  • Camping cabins rentals are also available in the park.
  • RVers should come prepared for leveling, as campsites may be sloped.

Reviews for Deam Lake State Recreation Area Campgrounds

100%
3 ratings · 1 review
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