- Shades State Park
The best camping in Shades State Park, IN
94% (8)
A shady retreat for hikers, campers, and canoeists just outside the city.
The best camping in Shades State Park, IN
Shades Campground
1. Shades Campground
94%
(8)
106 sites · Tents, RVs · In Shades State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
2. Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
95%
(69)
16mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Large secluded cove near our barn and garden. Watch the sun come up from the orchard. There is 1 electrical plug so not all 3 spaces have electric but you can run a cord. There is also a single water spigot to share as well. There are 2 houses somewhat visible through the trees but no direct line of sight and otherwise private. We have 2 dogs, Whiskey and Barb, Whiskey will usually keep her space but bark, if you ignore her she will be friendly, acts mean but never bites. Barbara is a Jack Russell. She will jump in the truck if you don't tell her not to and will happily run off with snacks. We ask you please don't feed them as it will teach them to come for food and some people don't appreciate the dogs.. This is a farm so you may see and smell animals. Depending on when you book you may even be somewhat near animals. Be aware of this and be ready to keep dogs contained. We typically run pigs in the woods around the cove but we move them regularly and keep the smell to a minimum by doing so.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Martin H.’s Land
3. Martin H.’s Land
99%
(57)
21mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · Tents
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp
4. Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp
100%
(130)
25mi from Shades State Park · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a hands on educational experience with a variety of animals, crafts and farm operations or you can simply relax in a quiet farm setting next to the creek and enjoy the view.
Our site is a short 10 minute drive to town or the highway (65 and 74) with the exceptional bonus of peace and tranquility of the country.
Farm Experience - $12 per person
Farm Store - Onsite
Firewood - $5 a bundle
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Shalamar Farm
5. Shalamar Farm
100%
(126)
28mi from Shades State Park · 3 sites · RVs
BEST IN STATE 2025, hosted over 240 rigs since 2020! Private home with 13 acres built in 2018 with maintained lawn, shade trees, quiet and peaceful setting. Accept long term renters and traveling professionals. Eleven miles to LP1 (North Eli Lilly site) and 4 miles to Leap (Foundry). Welcome to Shalamar Farm, our second time around!
SHADE TREE: full hook ups, pull thru, rig must be less than 30 feet.
NORTH: full hook ups, back in, rig must be less than 35'.
SOUTH: full hook ups, back in, rig must be less than 45'. BOOKED UNTIL 8-2027
HOSPITALS: Lebanon 7 miles, Crawfordsville 19 miles, Zionsville 20 miles, Westfield 25 miles, Indianapolis (86th Street area) 26 miles, Carmel 31 miles.
Do not feed our friendly pets, George our 20 yo horse and Lowell our 7 yo cat. Eastern time zone.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Flint Farm: Attica,IN
6. Flint Farm: Attica,IN
92%
(12)
28mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · RVs
Purchase this piece of land just a year after I graduated high school and thought it would be nice to share itLearn more about this land:Welcome to my 10 acre vacant lot with the beauty of the country side. Site is welcome to campers with tents or rv’s. Camping spot is near the cropland, but left with plenty of room for outdoor activities and room to get setup. There is a railroad that runs along the property so if you think this may bother you then this location isn’t for you. There are nature preserves not far away with public access trails to hike along with great places to eat. Water and electric hookup is available. If interested and would like direct details my number is 765-585-7648. 28 mins away from the Mackey Areana in West Lafayette, 15mins from the Badlands Off Road Park in Attica, 5mins from the Paintball Barn. Located off of a paved road with the privacy of field crops.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$65
/ night
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
7. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
100%
(57)
30mi from Shades State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on
the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days.
One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Happy Campers Campground
8. Happy Campers Campground
99%
(191)
30mi from Shades State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have
5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an
1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available. We have trash bens available.
Seasonal shower house and porta pottys. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! Open now.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Havendell Farm and Wayside
9. Havendell Farm and Wayside
99%
(226)
31mi from Shades State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Since 2003 the land has been home to people, farm animals, fruit, vegetable, and flower gardens, and a children’s therapy program on horseback. Enjoy the country atmosphere in driving proximity to Indianapolis amenities. A great place for a unique getaway. Make sure and check out all of our available extras when you book your space.
Guests may walk our short, wooded nature trail and mowed paths. Located just 20-30 minutes from the Indianapolis International Airport, downtown Indianapolis, the Indianapolis 500, drag racing, state parks, horseback riding, and numerous small town fairs, and farmers markets.
Easy access to I-74, fuel, eating establishments, groceries, gyms, a water park, the McCloud Nature Center and B&O Rails to Trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Hill Top Farms
10. Hill Top Farms
96%
(14)
34mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · Tent
Nestled in Clayton Indiana is a quiet and relaxing farm called Hill Top Farms. This 75 acre farm is tucked back off the road and features a large pond for fishing, scenic views and all the space you need for a peaceful time. Between the horses grazing off in the distance and the chickens pecking the ground this space will help you slow down and enjoy your life.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$45
/ night
Acacia Farms
11. Acacia Farms
97%
(35)
35mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · Lodging
We are a small hobby farm on five acres just outside the town of Brownsburg. You’ll wake up to goats peeking in your windows and chickens laying fresh eggs for breakfast out back. The small tiny house is located behind our private residence. It is completely fenced in if you happen to be traveling with a furry friend of your own. You’re welcome to walk in the field, roast s’mores over the fire pit, or just visit with the barn cats.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$78
/ night
Basic Acres
12. Basic Acres
100%
(23)
37mi from Shades State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at a wedding venue, brick and mortar bathrooms just steps away and beautiful views by our pond.
We are opening up our grass parking lot for tent camping, limited drop cords available for power. Class A, B and C motorhomes welcome with a 30A service. Potable water available upon request.
See host for camping around the pond area or areas outside the parking lot posted in the picture.
Local Brewery located 4 min down the road with awesome food and delicious beverages!
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min away!
Splash Island Indoor/Outdoor pool (A must with kids) 5 Min away
DQ and Oasis Diner - 6 Min away
Weather permitting - Communal fire pit area.
Fishing is available so bring your pole. 20 Acres of walking trails, pets welcome on a leash (we have ducks on the pod at times)
More local hotspots check out this link!
https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/trip-planning/regions/plainfield/
No chickens on or near the property so go ahead and sleep in...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Neighbor Acres
13. Neighbor Acres
100%
(20)
37mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · RV
Located next to Apple Acres, this spot is next to the property owners dwelling, large gravel pad with a mild slope. This spot is designed for Camper vans or trailers less than 30ft long, wide enough to park along side.
Full hook up at this spot, however running water is not available Dec-March. Potable water available upon request.
Portable restroom 50ft away open year round. Regular bathrooms are available Dec-March only a 2 min walk. No showers.
3" Grade, see pictures.
This spot has no perks like a firepit, but has a picnic table and a trash can. Walking trails, pets welcome and a beautiful pond nearby.
Free Wi-Fi at this spot!
Splash Island water park is only a 5 Min drive!
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min Drive!
Brew Link Brew Pub - 3 Min drive
Pets
Full hookups
from
$49
/ night
Apple acres
14. Apple acres
99%
(127)
37mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
My Great great grandfather purchased the land in 1834, I am the 5th generation on this farm. Areas first apple orchard started in 1910-1990 now a wedding venue with beautiful scenery. The retired apple orchard still has trees with vast walking trails between the rows. Amazing wildlife!
Vast walking trails that are kept mowed. Fishing pond available (with prior permission) pet friendly property for responsible owners that clean up afterword.
2 Bathroom options! One with running water only a 2min walk or use a new port-a-pot with attached sink very close to the shelter.
Enjoy - Breeo smokless firepit, two Adirondack chairs, two hammock chairs, 8ft epoxy coated picknick table. Fast Wi-Fi at this spot!
R/C and non motorized bike dirt track available to use. Berms, high bank turns and whoops! dogs love them too.
Local attractions - Brew links brewing = 3 min drive, Splash Island water park = 5 min drive, Indianapolis Motor Speedway = 35 min drive,
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min drive
More local info, check out this link!
https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/trip-planning/regions/plainfield/
No chickens on or near property, so go ahead and sleep in...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake
15. Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake
100%
(13)
46mi from Shades State Park · 85 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the beauty of nature at this charming location, brimming with life. Nestled beside a renowned, well-stocked fishing lake, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, the property offers easy turnarounds for RVs and Semis. Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities.
Small tents are welcome with the purchase of a 12-hour fishing pass, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Additionally, The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge in a memorable stay surrounded by nature and convenient amenities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$30
/ night
Celtic Glen Farm Stay
16. Celtic Glen Farm Stay
98%
(53)
46mi from Shades State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Celtic Glen is a working, 100 acre family farm of heritage breed livestock, nestled in an old limestone quarry on the banks of the White River, on one side, and Fall Creek, on another. Lots of space between campsites and are often all to yourself. Learn about regenerative farming with rare breeds on a farm tour, or mining and wetlands restoration on an ecological history tour. Pet and feed the livestock. Fish and bird-watch. Take a yoga class (at times with goats or bunnies) in the center of the stone henge. Have coffee with goats. Eat farm craft meats, eggs, prepared soups, casseroles, and baked goods, or hop into town for a bite.We are across the river from McCormick's Creek State Park (Indiana's first state park with miles of trails, a swimming pool, and lodge) and just two miles north of Spencer, a small town with an excellent brew pub, winery, cafe, and more. Just 12 miles north of the farm is Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. We are only 20 minutes from Bloomington and Indiana University; 45 minutes from Indianapolis Int'l Airport. This is a working farm with lots of livestock, electric fences, and working dogs, so please leave the farm animals alone unless someone from the farm is available and present. Dogs must be on a leash in the camping area. given the above features of a working livestock farm, the quarry ruins, the operative railroad tracks, and the river (not suitable for swimming), family friendly (children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times).
*We have lots of on-farm food and supplies options, please contact us for a complete list and any requests. All sites have a private stone fire circle as well as access to a common grill, handwashing station, porta potty or septic outhouse, cold/solar water shower.
*We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options.
*Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Dirt Weapon Ranch
17. Dirt Weapon Ranch
98%
(41)
47mi from Shades State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Come and enjoy our private 90-acre retreat, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled in an arch of the White River, this secluded sanctuary boasts two private lakes, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and relaxation. Conveniently located within a short driving distance to Indy, Bloomington, and Southern Indiana, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while still having access to nearby urban amenities.
We offer five powered campsites and numerous options for primitive camping lakeside or riverside. Please note that there are no direct water hookups, so be sure to bring your own water for your stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Coop Dreams Farm
18. Coop Dreams Farm
100%
(18)
49mi from Shades State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Currently the Coop Dreams farm from the Coop Dreams TV show.
Hiking trails, creeks and woods surround the chicken and goat yard.
5 minutes to quaint little town - 15 minutes to a cool winery - 25 minutes to Terre Haute with restaurants and activities.
Indianapolis is about an hour and 15 minutes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Swanky Acres
19. Swanky Acres
100%
(4)
9mi from Shades State Park · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is located north of Rockville, Indiana, in beautiful Parke County, right off Highway 41. Nestled in a quiet ravine, it offers a peaceful getaway close to local attractions.
Turkey Run State Park and Shades State Park are just a few miles away, and kayaking or canoeing is available down the road. The area is famous for its 30+ beautiful covered bridges, as well as local Amish shops and food stands. Rockville itself has several charming coffee shops and unique shopping spots.
On-site, our property features walking trails, a his-and-hers bathhouse with toilets and showers, and a covered picnic area for you to enjoy. We are also within 30 minutes of Bridgeton and Mansfield—perfect if you’re visiting for the amazing Bridge Festival.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$52
/ night
Ironman's Neighbor
20. Ironman's Neighbor
9.9mi from Shades State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Residential property with large yard for RVs or tent camping. Community firepit, nice shade trees and only 1 mile from Ironman Raceway. Great for peaceful evenings away from the large crowd at the raceway.
Pets
Campfires
from
$125
/ night
94% (8)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shades State Park adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Shades State Park
Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn
95%
(69)
16mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Large secluded cove near our barn and garden. Watch the sun come up from the orchard. There is 1 electrical plug so not all 3 spaces have electric but you can run a cord. There is also a single water spigot to share as well. There are 2 houses somewhat visible through the trees but no direct line of sight and otherwise private. We have 2 dogs, Whiskey and Barb, Whiskey will usually keep her space but bark, if you ignore her she will be friendly, acts mean but never bites. Barbara is a Jack Russell. She will jump in the truck if you don't tell her not to and will happily run off with snacks. We ask you please don't feed them as it will teach them to come for food and some people don't appreciate the dogs.. This is a farm so you may see and smell animals. Depending on when you book you may even be somewhat near animals. Be aware of this and be ready to keep dogs contained. We typically run pigs in the woods around the cove but we move them regularly and keep the smell to a minimum by doing so.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Martin H.’s Land
Martin H.’s Land
99%
(57)
21mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · Tents
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp
Heavenly Acres Creekside Camp
100%
(130)
25mi from Shades State Park · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a hands on educational experience with a variety of animals, crafts and farm operations or you can simply relax in a quiet farm setting next to the creek and enjoy the view.
Our site is a short 10 minute drive to town or the highway (65 and 74) with the exceptional bonus of peace and tranquility of the country.
Farm Experience - $12 per person
Farm Store - Onsite
Firewood - $5 a bundle
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Shalamar Farm
Shalamar Farm
100%
(126)
28mi from Shades State Park · 3 sites · RVs
BEST IN STATE 2025, hosted over 240 rigs since 2020! Private home with 13 acres built in 2018 with maintained lawn, shade trees, quiet and peaceful setting. Accept long term renters and traveling professionals. Eleven miles to LP1 (North Eli Lilly site) and 4 miles to Leap (Foundry). Welcome to Shalamar Farm, our second time around!
SHADE TREE: full hook ups, pull thru, rig must be less than 30 feet.
NORTH: full hook ups, back in, rig must be less than 35'.
SOUTH: full hook ups, back in, rig must be less than 45'. BOOKED UNTIL 8-2027
HOSPITALS: Lebanon 7 miles, Crawfordsville 19 miles, Zionsville 20 miles, Westfield 25 miles, Indianapolis (86th Street area) 26 miles, Carmel 31 miles.
Do not feed our friendly pets, George our 20 yo horse and Lowell our 7 yo cat. Eastern time zone.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Flint Farm: Attica,IN
Flint Farm: Attica,IN
92%
(12)
28mi from Shades State Park · 2 sites · RVs
Purchase this piece of land just a year after I graduated high school and thought it would be nice to share itLearn more about this land:Welcome to my 10 acre vacant lot with the beauty of the country side. Site is welcome to campers with tents or rv’s. Camping spot is near the cropland, but left with plenty of room for outdoor activities and room to get setup. There is a railroad that runs along the property so if you think this may bother you then this location isn’t for you. There are nature preserves not far away with public access trails to hike along with great places to eat. Water and electric hookup is available. If interested and would like direct details my number is 765-585-7648. 28 mins away from the Mackey Areana in West Lafayette, 15mins from the Badlands Off Road Park in Attica, 5mins from the Paintball Barn. Located off of a paved road with the privacy of field crops.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$65
/ night
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm
100%
(57)
30mi from Shades State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on
the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days.
One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$32
/ night
Happy Campers Campground
Happy Campers Campground
99%
(191)
30mi from Shades State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have
5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an
1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available. We have trash bens available.
Seasonal shower house and porta pottys. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! Open now.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Havendell Farm and Wayside
Havendell Farm and Wayside
99%
(226)
31mi from Shades State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Since 2003 the land has been home to people, farm animals, fruit, vegetable, and flower gardens, and a children’s therapy program on horseback. Enjoy the country atmosphere in driving proximity to Indianapolis amenities. A great place for a unique getaway. Make sure and check out all of our available extras when you book your space.
Guests may walk our short, wooded nature trail and mowed paths. Located just 20-30 minutes from the Indianapolis International Airport, downtown Indianapolis, the Indianapolis 500, drag racing, state parks, horseback riding, and numerous small town fairs, and farmers markets.
Easy access to I-74, fuel, eating establishments, groceries, gyms, a water park, the McCloud Nature Center and B&O Rails to Trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
Hill Top Farms
Hill Top Farms
96%
(14)
34mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · Tent
Nestled in Clayton Indiana is a quiet and relaxing farm called Hill Top Farms. This 75 acre farm is tucked back off the road and features a large pond for fishing, scenic views and all the space you need for a peaceful time. Between the horses grazing off in the distance and the chickens pecking the ground this space will help you slow down and enjoy your life.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$45
/ night
Acacia Farms
Acacia Farms
97%
(35)
35mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · Lodging
We are a small hobby farm on five acres just outside the town of Brownsburg. You’ll wake up to goats peeking in your windows and chickens laying fresh eggs for breakfast out back. The small tiny house is located behind our private residence. It is completely fenced in if you happen to be traveling with a furry friend of your own. You’re welcome to walk in the field, roast s’mores over the fire pit, or just visit with the barn cats.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$78
/ night
Basic Acres
Basic Acres
100%
(23)
37mi from Shades State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at a wedding venue, brick and mortar bathrooms just steps away and beautiful views by our pond.
We are opening up our grass parking lot for tent camping, limited drop cords available for power. Class A, B and C motorhomes welcome with a 30A service. Potable water available upon request.
See host for camping around the pond area or areas outside the parking lot posted in the picture.
Local Brewery located 4 min down the road with awesome food and delicious beverages!
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min away!
Splash Island Indoor/Outdoor pool (A must with kids) 5 Min away
DQ and Oasis Diner - 6 Min away
Weather permitting - Communal fire pit area.
Fishing is available so bring your pole. 20 Acres of walking trails, pets welcome on a leash (we have ducks on the pod at times)
More local hotspots check out this link!
https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/trip-planning/regions/plainfield/
No chickens on or near the property so go ahead and sleep in...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Neighbor Acres
Neighbor Acres
100%
(20)
37mi from Shades State Park · 1 site · RV
Located next to Apple Acres, this spot is next to the property owners dwelling, large gravel pad with a mild slope. This spot is designed for Camper vans or trailers less than 30ft long, wide enough to park along side.
Full hook up at this spot, however running water is not available Dec-March. Potable water available upon request.
Portable restroom 50ft away open year round. Regular bathrooms are available Dec-March only a 2 min walk. No showers.
3" Grade, see pictures.
This spot has no perks like a firepit, but has a picnic table and a trash can. Walking trails, pets welcome and a beautiful pond nearby.
Free Wi-Fi at this spot!
Splash Island water park is only a 5 Min drive!
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min Drive!
Brew Link Brew Pub - 3 Min drive
Pets
Full hookups
from
$49
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Aidan
3 days ago
20 ft campervan
Nice and quiet, easy to find, close enough to town. Toilet was clean
See more
c
charlie
1 week ago
30 ft travel trailer
This is a great parking spot for the night.the host greeted me when I pulled in. It's very easy back in. The site is very level.I will for sure stay there again. Thanks for the hospitality Jonathan.
See more
H
Harrington
3 weeks ago
24 ft toy hauler
With pets
Their location is rural and quiet. They use their animals to help benefit children with developmental issues, quite an amazing and beautiful calling!
You won’t be sorry should you be in need of a place camp or RV for a bit! The nights are beautiful out there too! We ended up staying on longer than expected. Kool fact, while I didn’t think him cocky, waking to a rooster in the morning is actually really cool:))
It was super cold for most of the night we were there but Dave and Tara were gracious and kind and shared some flannel blankets to help keep lab River warm. Filled my heart with joy to be welcomed so.
So grateful to have met them and found their wonderful location!! Added additional days as needed and they made everything wonderful!
ML for these kind folks
God has blessed them
See more
H
Harrington
December 2025
25 ft toy hauler
With pets
Their location is rural and quiet. They use their animals to help benefit children with developmental issues, quite an amazing and beautiful calling!
You won’t be sorry should you be in need of a place camp or RV for a bit! The nights are beautiful out there too! We ended up staying on longer than expected. Kool fact, while I didn’t think him cocky, waking to a rooster in the morning is actually really cool:))
It was super cold and snowy for the night we were there camping but Dave and Tara went out of their way to provide a drop cord for us so we could have power to our heater!
Much needed as the outside temp felt like -24!
So grateful to have met them and found their wonderful location!!
Thank you for having us.
ML for these kind folks you will be glad you chose to stay:)
See moreN
Noah
November 2025
16 ft car
Easy to find, good communication, and solid flat spaces with clean bathroom
See more
m
mike
November 2025
Tent
My boyfriend and I stayed here for a short-notice camping trip, and we’re so glad we chose this farm. We booked the upper vista site and it was peaceful, secluded, and beautifully tucked away.. exactly what we were hoping for.
Even though we arrived later than planned, Phil and Lessie were incredibly nice, welcoming, and understanding. The next morning we woke up to the sound of Highland cows and a few donkeys, which was both funny and surprisingly relaxing. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee by the fire while taking it all in.
We were greeted by the owners’ sweet, friendly dogs, and later got to tour the farm. It was so much fun seeing the goats, Highland cows, donkeys, and especially watching their cattle dog proudly show off his herding skills. Lessie shared so much interesting information about the farm and the history behind the animals, you can tell she truly loves what she does.
Overall our stay was amazing, peaceful, and refreshing. We’ve already planned to come back, and next time we’re bringing our kids and family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a unique farm experience!
See moreM
Matias Ignacio
November 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
Beautiful place yo stay.
Everything clean
Quiet place
Easy access
Nice host
Would recommend 100%
See moreA
Adam
November 2025
Tent
Johnathan’s spot totally exceeded my expectations. This is a terrific spot for RVers, given the available hookups. I just had a roof tent, but the extra high carport kept everything from getting wet in a blow-through rainstorm, and the fire pit was a lovely way to wind down after a long day on the road. I highly recommend the breakfast add-on to get a little fuel in you. It’s nothing fancy, but it is tasty and delivered when you need it.
It’s a beautiful, quiet property — wish I’d stayed longer than one night to explore the trails around the property. Also, my dog loved it.
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Thane
November 2025
22 ft campervan
Great, covered spot with convenient features for a quick overnight or extended stay. Having an indoor bathroom was nice as well as a port-a-potty closeby. It was very quiet and the pond was beautiful. Friendly, accomodating host.
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J
Juan
November 2025
Tent
Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private
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Annie
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a great night at the Happy Camper Campground! Cozy small camping spot with just a couple other campers nearby. Dwight was great and super responsive and helpful. We also loved getting to know the “camp kitty”. She was so sweet.
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Tiffany
October 2025
29 ft Class C
Dwight gave us great directions to avoid the back country roads which made getting there easier than GPS was going to get us there. We enjoyed the quiet country setting at Happy Campers. Dwight was friendly and checked with us each day when we were fishing to see if we needed anything. My favorite was his kitty that seemed to greet each quest at their site as they arrived. She loved to spend time with us around the pond watching the ducks and snuggle by the fire in the evening. We definitely enjoyed her company! We will be back when the fish are biting! Thanks Dwight!
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Zack
October 2025
Tent
Great place to pitch a tent. I would go back. View was great.
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Brittney
October 2025
12 ft travel trailer
With pets
We loved the property including the modern amenities while still having privacy to relax and unwind. Sherri is an outstanding host and we will absolutely consider staying on her property in the future!
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Grace
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Sherri’s property is beautiful! It’s an old campground that they’ve spruced up, there’s a nice bathhouse with showers and flushing toilets. There’s a cute little pavilion with yard games & a coffee maker. There’s a sand volleyball court, tether ball, and swings. There’s a gravel drive so you can get your car to the camp sites and back right into your spot.
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Jon
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Great little spot just outside of Indy. You aren’t too far from the property owner’s house and horses (which were cool to see by the way) but the way the pond sits, there’s overgrowth and trees that hides the view of all of that. This campsite felt very private. It was quiet and relaxing which is exactly what we wanted. I would 100% recommend this Hipcamp site to anyone that is looking at it.
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Rob
October 2025
35 ft Class C
Jonathan’s place was great. Very nice site, with lots of amenities. We have a 35’ motorhome and had plenty of room for it and our toad. We were there for a wedding on property also. Jonathan and his family have an event center on the property too. While at the reception, I left the table for a bit. When I returned there was Jonathan playing tic tac toe with our son.
Vice nice place ran by great people.
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Z
Zack
October 2025
Tent
Great tent site! Great communication with Leslie. Would go again
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Russ
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Super smooth in and out, Great rural farm setting. Perfect for a boondock night away from interstate noise or rowdy WM parking lots.
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Ian
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Peaceful property. Easy to communicate with. Would camp here again!
See moreThe best camping in Shades State Park, IN guide
Overview
About
Just an hour from Indianapolis, Shades State Park is all about peace, quiet, and getting back to nature. Hike along rugged trails through wooded ravines to reach landmarks like the Devil's Punchbowl, Inspiration Point, and Lover's Leap, or enjoy longer walks in the adjoining Pine Hills Nature Preserve. Take to the water to boat or canoe along Sugar Creek, fish for smallmouth bass and catfish, or tackle the Six Ravines Challenge, which leads the way to cascading waterfalls and sandstone cliffs. Campers are in for a treat, too—the park's dark skies afford spectacular stargazing. Shade Campground has non-electric RV campsites, as well as hike-in and canoe-in tent sites along the Backpack Trail.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- You can reserve RV campsites online via the Reserve America website; hike-in and canoe-in sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Online reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- Campsites can fill up over holiday weekends, so book a few months in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you have a particular site in mind.
When to go
Any time is a good time to explore Shades State Park, and the campground stays open year-round. Memorial Day through Labor Day is the busiest period, but the park rarely gets overcrowded. Trails can get slippery after rainfall, so come prepared and check water levels in summer before you plan boating or canoeing trips.
Know before you go
- Shades State Park is located about 17 miles southwest of Crawfordsville or a 25-minute drive. From Indianapolis, head west on US 41, then continue along SR234—it's about a 70-minute drive.
- There is a per-vehicle entrance fee for all Indiana State Parks, and campsite booking fees also apply. An Indiana fishing license is also required if you plan to fish.
- Facilities at Shades State Park include a camp store, restrooms, picnic areas with grills, drinking water fountains, playgrounds, and a dump station.
- Pack proper hiking boots for Shades State Park, as many of the hiking trails cross ravine streambeds and uneven terrain. Trails 4 and 5 also have ladders, rendering them unsuitable for small children, pets, and those with limited mobility.
- Pets are welcome at Shades State Park, but must be kept on a leash.
- There are accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and campsites at Shades State Park.
94%
8 ratings · 1 review
October 2021
I love hiking the trails at Shades State Park! One of the best spots in Indiana.
Haley B.
5 years on Hipcamp