Best Campgrounds in Indiana: 2026 Guide
Lake Michigan dunes, Hoosier forest, and limestone country camping
Indiana camping splits between two anchors: the Lake Michigan dunes in the north and the Hoosier National Forest hills in the south. Indiana Dunes National Park — one of the newest in the system — protects 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline with towering sand dunes, oak savannas, and a campground steps from the beach. Down south, the Hoosier National Forest wraps around Monroe Reservoir and the rugged limestone hill country that gives the state its karst caves and sandstone bluffs. Between these two extremes, Indiana offers more camping character than its flat-state reputation suggests.
Why Indiana Stands Out
Indiana Dunes became a national park in 2019, putting Lake Michigan beach camping on the national map. The dunes rise over 100 feet above the lake with views of the Chicago skyline across the water. The Hoosier National Forest in the south is where the Midwest starts to feel like Appalachia — rolling forested hills, limestone bluffs, and lakes tucked into valleys. Monroe Reservoir is the state's largest lake, and Hardin Ridge on its shore is one of the best-developed forest campgrounds in the region. Tipsaw Lake adds a smaller, quieter forest-lake option deeper in the hills.
Top Campgrounds to Explore
Dunewood Campground
In Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, hugging 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Beach access, towering dunes, rare bird species, and the Chicago skyline across the water.
Hardin Ridge
A 1,200-acre recreational complex on Monroe Reservoir in the Hoosier National Forest near Heltonville. Six shady campground loops, two picnic areas, and a swimming beach on Indiana's largest lake.
Tipsaw Lake
On its namesake lake in south-central Indiana's Hoosier National Forest near Branchville, offering camping, swimming, boating, and hiking in the forested limestone hills.
Overlook Shelter at Brookville Lake
Near Brookville Lake Dam with breathtaking views of the lake and dam. Visitors enjoy this scenic site in the rolling hills of southeastern Indiana.
Planning Tips
Indiana Dunes campground fills fast from June through August — reserve well ahead for summer weekends. Spring and fall are excellent at the dunes with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. The Hoosier National Forest is best from April through October, with fall color peaking in mid-October. Lake Michigan water is cold even in summer (swimmable July-August). Southern Indiana summers are hot and humid. Most campgrounds close or reduce services from November through March.
Find More
Browse all Indiana campgrounds on our Indiana camping page, or explore the full campground directory to plan your next trip.
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