The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Carmel, Indiana

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking to bring your furry friend along on your outdoor adventure near Carmel, Indiana, we've got you covered. With over 600 options suited for pets in the Carmel area, you'll find the perfect spot to enjoy nature with your four-legged companion. From cozy cabins to spacious RV sites, we have a variety of accommodations to meet your needs. Looking for recommendations? Check out top campsites like Marick Acres (253 reviews), Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), and Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews). With popular amenities such as campfires, potable water, and pet-friendly areas, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping experience. Don't miss out on activities like wildlife watching, swimming, and even surfing! So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure in Carmel, Indiana.

99% (1.6K) • 176 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking to bring your furry friend along on your outdoor adventure near Carmel, Indiana, we've got you covered. With over 600 options suited for pets in the Carmel area, you'll find the perfect spot to enjoy nature with your four-legged companion. From cozy cabins to spacious RV sites, we have a variety of accommodations to meet your needs. Looking for recommendations? Check out top campsites like Marick Acres (253 reviews), Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), and Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews). With popular amenities such as campfires, potable water, and pet-friendly areas, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping experience. Don't miss out on activities like wildlife watching, swimming, and even surfing! So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure in Carmel, Indiana.

99% (1.6K) • 176 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel

1. Camp Friend Park

100%

(2)

48mi from Carmel · 7 sites · Tents

Camp Friend was founded in 1951 when 83-year-old John George Friend donated 51.5 acres of wooded land—most of his property—“for the benefit of the youth of Putnam County.” To manage and preserve this gift, the Putnam Friend of Youth Foundation was established, ensuring that young people continue to enjoy the natural beauty of the land for generations to come. John and his son worked as gardeners for several Greencastle families, including the Barnabys, who owned a lumber yard and sawmill and contributed generously to the community. John likely felt encouraged to donate the wooded acreage due to his association with the Barnabys and his love for spending time in nature with his grandchildren. His gift allows all guests to appreciate and explore the great outdoors.

2. Pirate Woods: 45acre Wood & Prairie

100%

(6)

35mi from Carmel · 13 sites · Tents

We'd love to host you, your friends, and your pets on our 45 acres of woods and prairie! More about the location: 45 acres of combined farmland, prairie reserve, and forest--Pirate Woods is the perfect location for a getaway that still has nearby access to rural community amenities. This property is located 5 minutes from I-70 and 30-45 minutes from downtown Indianapolis. You can also access Knightstown via U.S. 40. Camp Areas: Pirate Woods campsites: are located in an 8 acre forest. There is a communal campfire ring with stocked woodpile for your use. Nearby are a few chairs for your use. You may create a fire ring at your own campsite if a fire ban is not in effect - but please be responsible. Sites 5 and 7 boast the best spots for hammock campers. Fauna: Pirate Woods is home to a variety of animals: great horned owls, deer, a mysterious grey wolf fox, chickens, pileated woodpeckers (and other varieties), finches, rose-breasted grosbeaks and more. Activities and Water: Feel free to walk, jog, or mountain bike the mowed paths. Bringing your own water is best. Though it's a short walk along the property to reach our back barn where there is a spigot available for your use (you may drink it from the tap, but purifying it recommended.) Town (Knightstown): A trip to town is only a 2 minute drive (or bike) away where you can grab Mexican or pub food at local restaurants when you don't feel like cooking over a fire. Additionally, the Blue River runs nearby and there is local access in town where you can rent kayaks. Other Town Highlights: 1. The Hoosier Gym (from the movie Hoosiers) 2. Farmers and Artisan market every Saturday morning June-July 3. Boondocks farm frisbee golf 4. Royal Highlands Golf (we're located on Greensboro Pike, the third (grassy) drive south of the golf course.)

3. Thirsty Acres

100%

(1)

34mi from Carmel · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our picturesque 24-acre retreat nestled along the banks of the Big Blue River! Located just minutes from the excitement of Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing and Casino, downtown bars, and the Blue Bear Golf Course, our tranquil oasis offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Unwind at our Tiki Bar, where you can sip refreshing drinks and soak up the sunshine while taking in the stunning views of the river. Whether you're catching up with friends or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the water, our Tiki Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Explore the natural beauty of our wooded surroundings as you stroll along scenic trails and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. With acres of pristine wilderness to discover, there's always something new to see and explore. Fire up the grill at our pavilion and enjoy a delicious barbecue with family and friends. With plenty of seating and space for outdoor dining, our pavilion is the ideal spot to gather for meals and create lasting memories together. For those seeking adventure on the water, kayaking and tubing are available for an additional fee when conditions are favorable. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Big Blue River and take in the breathtaking scenery as you explore the waterways surrounding our property. We offer a limited number of 30-amp service spots for an additional fee, with all other guests welcome to run on a generator. With plenty of space to hang out and enjoy all that Shelbyville has to offer, our retreat is the perfect destination for your next getaway!

4. Quiet Country

46mi from Carmel · 1 site · Tent, RV

2.5-acre property with 3 RV sites in a quiet setting surrounded by farmland. Conveniently located near Crawfordsville, just 25 miles from Lafayette and 45 miles from Indianapolis. Sites are easily accessible on paved roads and include 50-amp service, soft water, sewer, and a laundry facility. Montgomery County also offers state parks with hiking, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing opportunities.

5. The Indy Hideaway -Indy City Camper

14mi from Carmel · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to our cozy and unique hideaway, located in Fountain Square downtown Indianapolis. Situated in a peaceful, welcoming neighborhood, our RV offers a comfortable and homey retreat just minutes from downtown. Enjoy a quiet escape with easy access to Indy’s top attractions, while still being close to the vibrant city life. Perfect for a relaxing stay with everything you need nearby!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Abi

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Friend Park

We loved camping here!! It was so beautiful and the trees were amazing! Plenty of fire wood provided which was so kind and William was very helpful and quick to answer any questions we had! We hope to be back!

M

Megan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pirate Woods: 45acre Wood & Prairie

We had an awesome evening on Michelle's land! We were fortunate enough to have the place to ourselves for the evening and were really about to explore and get a feel for the place. Michelle was both responsive on the app and prepared for our visit. Cannot say enough good things. We're already making plans to come back with our extended family.

E

Evan

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Friend Park

We stayed in campsite 1. It was excellent with plenty of room to pitch a tent. Fire pit was spacious. Firewood was provided and appreciated! Very short walk from parking for loading and unloading. Bathrooms and sinks with running water were available. Such a quaint little spot close to downtown Greencastle. We would stay again!