Indiana’s state parks offer incredible options for RVers looking for budget camping opportunities. You certainly don’t have to settle for Cracker Barrel.
Before planning your trip to the Hoosier State, you’ll want to know which units provide the best camping accommodations.
Today, we’re diving into Indiana’s state parks to help you experience the trip of a lifetime.
Let’s hit it!
Why Make Indiana State Parks Your Next Destination?
Indiana’s state parks system dates back to the early 1900s when notable local Colonel Richard Lieber suggested celebrating the state’s centennial by establishing a network of public lands. He brought his vision to fruition. Today, the Hoosier State’s parks system ranks third in the nation.
No matter where you are in Indiana, you’re never more than one hour from a state park. Twenty-four units range in size from 165 acres to nearly 16,000. Some are urban, while others provide a much-needed respite in the wilderness.
You’ll have access to 700 miles of trails, 15 swimming beaches, 75 boat launches, 160 playgrounds, and endless excitement throughout the parks. The geography here includes everything from deep caves to rolling sand dunes. You can also explore dense forests, swamps, prairies, rivers, and lakes.
Visitors won’t have to search too hard for fun things to do and gorgeous landscapes to admire. Here are five of the top spots for budget camping in Indiana.
#1 Spring Mill State Park
Spring Mill State Park, located in south-central Indiana, highlights the juncture between natural beauty and human-crafted marvels. In the early 1800s, an industrial village built up around an unusual spring where water flowed out of a cave, ultimately powering a range of mills and distilleries.
Today, visitors can explore the caves on guided walks and boat tours. Four interpretive facilities provide lots of information on the once-bustling town, and a Nature Center can enlighten you on the unusual flora and fauna in the area. Multiple trails traverse the property, including easy hikes and rugged treks. One is even wheelchair accessible.
The campground at Spring Mill State Park is an excellent option for visitors. About 185 RV sites include electricity, and some even have full hookups. Each spot contains a picnic table and a fire ring. You’ll also have access to ADA-accessible restrooms with showers, fresh water, and an on-site dump station.
Find out why Elkhart, Indiana, is the RV Capital of the World!
#2 Brown County State Park
Indiana’s largest state park is Brown County. This 16,000-acre destination welcomes over one million visitors each year. Once you get a taste of this park, you’ll see why.
The landscape here resembles the Great Smoky Mountains, giving rise to the nickname Little Smokies. Accordingly, this is one of the best spots to catch fall colors when the weather cools. But the park is a year-round hot spot.
Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are just a few of the popular activities. Two lakes on the property provide excellent opportunities for fishing, with ample amounts of bass and bluegill. Additionally, several dedicated mountain biking trails allow visitors to explore the deciduous forest on two wheels.
You’ll find over 400 RV campsites with electrical hookups spread between three different campgrounds. Each spot includes a picnic table and fire ring, and you’re never too far from fresh water. Modern restrooms are also available for campers. While site lengths vary, many can accommodate big rigs.
#3 McCormick’s Creek State Park
Located in eastern central Indiana, McCormick’s Creek State Park features staggering limestone canyons, scenic waterfalls, and forests of pine, beech, poplar, and maple trees. Over ten miles of hiking trails traverse the landscape, leading to unusual formations like caves and natural land bridges.
In addition to the many hiking trails, you can explore the nature center, fish in McCormick’s Creek and the White River, and hit the recreation center to play tennis or go for a swim.
The campground at McCormick’s Creek State Park has 189 modern sites with 20- and 30-Amp electrical hookups. Access to fresh water and restrooms with showers and flushing toilets ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll also be close to added amenities, such as a general store, playground, and dump station. Several sites allow for pull-through access.
Looking for more fun? Explore Saddle Lake Recreation Area: A Hidden Gem in Indiana!
#4 Tippecanoe River State Park
You’ll find Tippecanoe River State Park in Pulaski County, at the northern end of Indiana. Of course, the river is the main attraction for many visitors. Canoeing and kayaking are among the most popular activities here. Additionally, anglers often catch bass and bluegill. However, the mighty river is usually too rapid for swimmers.
Hiking is another popular pastime at Tippecanoe, and nearly 20 miles of hiking trails traverse the landscape. In winter, many of these transform into snowshoeing tracks. Be sure to hike the 90’ fire tower for unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.
For budget camping in Indiana, it’s hard to beat this park. The campground has 112 RV sites with full-spectrum electrical hookups. Trash service, restrooms with showers, access to fresh water, and an on-site dump station ensure you’ll have all the essentials. Finally, some pull-through spots can accommodate big rigs.
#5 Turkey Run State Park
Our final Indiana State Park is Turkey Run in the eastern part of the state. This destination features ancient forests, sandstone ravines, and the popular Sugar Creek. In fact, according to visitors, it’s the #1 park in the state!
A stay here offers the chance to venture beneath the cliffs, explore interesting geological formations, and connect with Mother Nature. Nearly 15 miles of trails traverse the property, many crossing the creek and delving into the canyons. Several significant historic sites offer a glimpse into the pioneer days of the past.
The campground has over 200 electrical sites with 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp service. All spots contain a picnic table and a fire ring, and many are big-rig friendly. Fresh water, modern restrooms, a general store, and a dump station are nearby.
Grab a copy of Indiana Off the Beaten Path to start planning your trip!
Is the Hoosier State Worth Visiting?
Indiana State Parks are gateways to the region’s unexpected landscape. Plunging ravines, raging rivers, dense forests, and striking scenery are just the beginning.
Of course, we suggest planning a trip through Indiana and taking advantage of the many budget camping opportunities awaiting you. You won’t regret it!
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