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Camping & Cabins

Camping & Cabins

The Hoosier National Forest offers a variety of camping opportunities, from cabins to dispersed camping. For a quick overview take a look at our “Camping Opportunities” publication.

Many campsites can be reserved online through recreation.gov or by calling the National Reservation System at 1-877-444-6777 (TTY is 1-877-833-6777.) Occupancy is first come, first served unless otherwise reserved. 

Our campground open season is generally from April through October. Some campgrounds stay open year-round and are available with reduced amenities out of season for a reduced rate. Several campgrounds are equestrian friendly with livestock amenities.

Firewood

Make a plan to prevent the spread of pests and pathogens.  All firewood must meet Hoosier National Forest firewood requirements. 

Cabin Rentals

The Hoosier National Forest offers two cabins to rent. Both are located at Hardin Ridge Recreation Area, overlooking beautiful Monroe Lake. Reservations can be made through recreation.gov.

Developed Campgrounds

Developed campgrounds can provide community and amenities that the backcountry can't while at the same time being a serene escape to nature. 

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping, or backcountry camping, is any camping experience that doesn't rely on developed facilities for you to enjoy. Dispersed camping is available along many of our hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. 

See our Dispersed Camping page for details.

Group Camping

Planning something big? The Hoosier National Forest has space to accommodate groups of all types at the Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area. 

RV Camping

We welcome recreational vehicles and many of our Recreation Areas are set up to accommodate any type of vehicle. These sites offer full services like electric, water, bathhouses, nearby dump stations, and other amenities. 

Showing: 1 - 7 of 7 results

Buzzard Roost Recreation Area
Site Open
Scenic Drives Picnicking Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
A scenic location for walking, picnicking and camping.  Parking areas are available at the first trailhead access and at the picnic/camping spur. Tables, grills, and a portable toilet are available…

German Ridge Recreation Area
Site Open
Horse Riding and Camping Water Activities Picnicking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
The German Ridge Recreation Area includes a campground, a 24-mile multiple use trail, a short hiking trail around a scenic lake, a day use area for swimming and picnicking, and several historic…

Hardin Ridge Recreation Area
Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Picnicking Hiking Biking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is located on Monroe Lake south of Bloomington, Indiana. This recreation area offers​ six campground loops, two picnic areas and three shelterhouses,​ two of which…

Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area
Site Open
Picnicking Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning Biking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area is located two miles south of Interstate 64 off Indiana 37. It offers​ opportunities for both overnight and day use, with two camping loops and two lakes that…

Saddle Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities Outdoor Science and Learning
The Saddle Lake Recreation Area was one of four that was associated with flood control lakes built along the Middle Fork of the Anderson River. Saddle Lake once had a fully developed recreation area…

Shirley Creek Campground
Site Open
Horse Riding and Camping
Shirley Creek Campground is a primitive campground with pit toilets, hitching racks, and water for livestock. The campground is designed for horse camping, however, any National Forest visitor is…

Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Picnicking Hiking Biking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities Outdoor Science and Learning
Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area is located six miles south of Interstate 64, off of Indiana 37. It offers opportunities for both overnight and day use, with three camping loops, two group camping areas,…
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