Camping in Santa Claus, IN, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Indiana
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Santa Claus

97% (1305 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Claus

Star Hosts in Santa Claus

Top camping destinations

Mammoth Cave National Park

718 campgrounds

One of the two rivers on the property. This one flows alongside campsite 2 and campsite 4. All guests have hiking access to enjoy the rivers!

Castalian Springs

96 campgrounds

Shawnee National Forest

486 campgrounds

Brown County State Park

421 campgrounds

Summers in the south get stupid hot. So I jumped in the lake. And I don't regret it.

Berea

74 campgrounds

Turkey Run State Park

371 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(8)

Waterfront Cabins and Camp Haven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Owensboro, KY

Welcome to Camp Safe Haven, your Family Oasis since 2005! Nestled just 11 miles west of Owensboro, KY, our property offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover our Waterfront Cabins and Tent Sites, where nature's serenity meets pretty water and nurturing hills. Indulge in our cozy cabins, either our poolside cabin in our campgrounds or our cabin in the woods, featuring scenic water views and nestled amidst the woods. Or, pitch your tent at one of our seven Tent Sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature day or night. Relax and unwind by taking a dip in our above-ground swimming pool or lounging on the poolside deck. Explore our beautiful trails winding through the property, offering encounters with the beauty of nature at every turn. At Camp Safe Haven, our mission is to nurture nature and secure serenity for all our guests. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make yourself at home as you embark on a memorable getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments

Buck Creek Sanctuary

20 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Elizabeth, IN

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.

Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

We now have 3 buildings for rent. The Cozy Camping Cottage, the Camping Cabin and the newest addition is our A-frame which is the most secluded spot on the land. - Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana to visit for 6 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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(34)

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

12 top campgrounds near Santa Claus

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(817)

Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

We now have 3 buildings for rent. The Cozy Camping Cottage, the Camping Cabin and the newest addition is our A-frame which is the most secluded spot on the land. - Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana to visit for 6 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

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

Waterfront Cabins and Camp Haven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Owensboro, KY

Welcome to Camp Safe Haven, your Family Oasis since 2005! Nestled just 11 miles west of Owensboro, KY, our property offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover our Waterfront Cabins and Tent Sites, where nature's serenity meets pretty water and nurturing hills. Indulge in our cozy cabins, either our poolside cabin in our campgrounds or our cabin in the woods, featuring scenic water views and nestled amidst the woods. Or, pitch your tent at one of our seven Tent Sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature day or night. Relax and unwind by taking a dip in our above-ground swimming pool or lounging on the poolside deck. Explore our beautiful trails winding through the property, offering encounters with the beauty of nature at every turn. At Camp Safe Haven, our mission is to nurture nature and secure serenity for all our guests. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make yourself at home as you embark on a memorable getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments

Buck Creek Sanctuary

20 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Elizabeth, IN

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.

Lost River Hostel

18 sites · Lodging31 acres · West Baden Springs, IN

The Lost River Hostel is a nonprofit arts and cultural center located on a 29+ acre hillside in West Baden Springs, Indiana overlooking a section of the Lost River valley. Lost River Hostel strives to build and maintain an extraordinary space fueled by a constant cycle of generosity and creativity. We hope everyone who stays here will go back into the world refreshed and rejuvenated – wanting to be better people and do great things. Everything we do here is driven by our mission statement: "To provide a sandbox for exploration of goals and growth through nature and human connection." We accomplish this by providing a distraction-free, reflective space that is welcoming of people from all backgrounds and beliefs. A communal dinner with gratitude circle is included in every stay. We also host workshops and events related to music, writing, yoga, organic gardening, cooking, and environmental sustainability.

Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

Sleeping Bear Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · French Lick, IN

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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Lake View camping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Reynolds Station, KY

30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.

93%

(7)

Solar Off The Grid Cabin

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Paoli, IN

7 Acres close to skiing, hiking, spalunking, canoeing ,moutian biking and over 700 acres across the street of undeveloped Hoosier National Forest . Great for Hunting Learn more about this land: The Cabin is powered by solar & wind and uses a filtered rain water collection system. It is close to French Lick & Paoli, hiking, golf, canoeing, spelunking, skiing hunting and more. Please note that during the winter months the angle of the sun is lower and the panels do not produce as much power as in the summer months (plus you have less daylight hours) . Depending on the cloud cover you may be limited to lights only in November, December, January and February . There is a generator available for rent at $10.00 per night plus gas or you can bring your own. There is a wood stove and a 13,000 btu indoor gas wall heater for heat, both units provide more than enough heat. There are two window air conditioning units that can be used in May, June, July and August. Once you get to the end of August or on cloudy days you are limited to the amount of time you can use the AC units unless you rent the generator. There is a propane cook stove available if you run out of power and 2 charcoal grills (you supply charcoal). Please note that the cabin is still a work in progress and is not 100% completed. Also note that if rain is limited there may be no water.

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Doe Valley

1 site · Lodging17 acres · Paoli, IN

We have 17 acres of mostly woods but enough open land for some fruit trees and sheep pasture.

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MoonLight Grove Farm

2 sites · Tents12 acres · Battletown, KY

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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The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

94 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Owensville, IN

Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens. Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.

Under $50

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Waterfront Cabins and Camp Haven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Owensboro, KY

Welcome to Camp Safe Haven, your Family Oasis since 2005! Nestled just 11 miles west of Owensboro, KY, our property offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover our Waterfront Cabins and Tent Sites, where nature's serenity meets pretty water and nurturing hills. Indulge in our cozy cabins, either our poolside cabin in our campgrounds or our cabin in the woods, featuring scenic water views and nestled amidst the woods. Or, pitch your tent at one of our seven Tent Sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature day or night. Relax and unwind by taking a dip in our above-ground swimming pool or lounging on the poolside deck. Explore our beautiful trails winding through the property, offering encounters with the beauty of nature at every turn. At Camp Safe Haven, our mission is to nurture nature and secure serenity for all our guests. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make yourself at home as you embark on a memorable getaway filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

We now have 3 buildings for rent. The Cozy Camping Cottage, the Camping Cabin and the newest addition is our A-frame which is the most secluded spot on the land. - Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana to visit for 6 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

Buck Creek Sanctuary

20 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Elizabeth, IN

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.

Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

Available this weekend

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The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

94 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Owensville, IN

Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens. Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.

Lost River Hostel

18 sites · Lodging31 acres · West Baden Springs, IN

The Lost River Hostel is a nonprofit arts and cultural center located on a 29+ acre hillside in West Baden Springs, Indiana overlooking a section of the Lost River valley. Lost River Hostel strives to build and maintain an extraordinary space fueled by a constant cycle of generosity and creativity. We hope everyone who stays here will go back into the world refreshed and rejuvenated – wanting to be better people and do great things. Everything we do here is driven by our mission statement: "To provide a sandbox for exploration of goals and growth through nature and human connection." We accomplish this by providing a distraction-free, reflective space that is welcoming of people from all backgrounds and beliefs. A communal dinner with gratitude circle is included in every stay. We also host workshops and events related to music, writing, yoga, organic gardening, cooking, and environmental sustainability.

Happy Hollow Homestead

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Marengo, IN

We now have 3 buildings for rent. The Cozy Camping Cottage, the Camping Cabin and the newest addition is our A-frame which is the most secluded spot on the land. - Voted best Hipcamp in Indiana to visit for 6 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

Places of Sanctuary

7 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Hoosier National Forest

Ferdinand State Forest

Birdseye, Indiana

Lincoln State Park

Gentryville, Indiana

John James Audubon State Park

O'Bannon Woods State Park

Leavenworth, Indiana

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Santa Claus guide

Overview

Just an hour’s drive from Evansville, the town of Santa Claus is a lively Christmas-themed town with a unique name and even more rare natural beauty and camping. Head to Lincoln State Park to discover the forests and hills of President Lincoln’s youth. Enjoy views of the water on the 1.5-mile Lake Trail, then cool off with swimming, fishing, and paddle-boating at the beach. Cabins, cottages, and a campground with primitive and electric campsites make it easy to stay inside the park for a few days. Twenty minutes north of Santa Claus, Ferdinand State Forest offers a quiet retreat at primitive campsites with vault toilets and seasonal drinking water. Explore the park on hiking and mountain biking trails, go hunting, have a picnic, and take the boat out on Ferdinand Lake. Private camping options near Santa Claus are also available and include quiet tent and RV sites on a working farm, as well as cozy guest houses with toilets and showers for a warmer stay.