Best Camping in and near Shades State Park

94% (8 reviews)

A shady retreat for hikers, campers, and canoeists just outside the city.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Shades State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Shades State Park

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(161)

Havendell Farm and Wayside

10 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Pittsboro, IN

Since 2003 the land has been home to people, horses, dogs, chickens and ducks, a hay field and fruit, vegetable, and flower gardens. Enjoy the country atmosphere in driving proximity to Indianapolis amenities. A great place for a unique getaway. Check out all of our baked goods, soaps and other offerings on the Havendell Farm and Wayside Facebook and instagram pages. A couple days per week from mid-March to Mid-December, the almost 20 acre property hosts a not for profit children’s physical therapy program. The farm has a short nature trail with a wood chipped path. Visitors may walk the perimeter of the property or the mowed paths. Our location is convenient to county roads for foot or bicycle touring. 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, The Covered Bridge Festival, 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.

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Celtic Glen Farm Stay

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Spencer, IN

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. 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, horseback riding, 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), 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. Nearby fun and food: We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options: Many events happen on the Spencer town square (including Spencer Pride events); and at the Owen County Fairgrounds which are actually in town along the White River and hosts events such as the White River Poultry Show. Historic Tivoli Theatre with big-screen movies, classic concessions, and more just off the square Cinema 67 Drive-In (4miles) All About You Salon and Spa on the square offers massage among other nice things. Hilltop Family Restaurant (vintage style family restaurant less than 2 miles north off 231) Owen Valley Winery –good food as well (often free live music) Stable Studios music venue (12 miles from farm) Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub (family friendly space, amazing food and beer and craft soda) Main Street Coffee and Kitchen –a gorgeous café with breakfast and lunch (including Bivi’s tamales) Millie McGee’s Gosport Diner –amazing comfort food in a charming super-small town just across the river (drive north on 231 then east in 67; 23 E Main St, Gosport; 8 miles from the farm) McCormick’s Creek State Park: Canyon Inn for dining, lots of trails, pool in the summer, horse stables Cataract Falls State Recreation Area just north off 231 –really lovely waterfall (13 miles) Green’s Bluff Nature Preserve (Nature Conservancy; 9 miles from farm) Other locally-owned eating: Babs supermarket and deli, Busy Bee Cafe, Papi Chulo’s Cantina, Jit’s Thai Bistro, Chambers Buffet on square, Grand’s Ice Cream, Sweet Valley Ice Cream. Of course, Bloomington is just 20 minutes away with lots to offer. A bit further out: Exotic Feline Rescue Center Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum Indiana University Hoosier National Forest Tulip Trestle Please ask if there is something specific you’d like to find. Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

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Apple acres

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Clayton, IN

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...

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Happy Campers Campground

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Brazil, IN

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 potty. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! We also have bathrooms and a new shower house now! Open now.

60-Acre Farm Stay with Hot Tub

5 sites · Lodging60 acres · Indianapolis, IN

Enjoy the serenity and seclusion of this 60-acre property in Indianapolis. You can observe our beautiful horses grazing in the nearby pasture. Private hot tub is available for all stay options. As you roam the trail behind the decorated metal pole barn, you'll find yourself captivated by the serene pond. What sets this property apart is that it is the only "Solar Farm" in the city of Indianapolis! Experience the eco-friendly features and benefits of this one-of-a-kind setup. As evening falls, witness the property come alive with the sounds of nature. Watch the sunset and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your stay. It is not uncommon to spot deer in the field, turtles basking in the sun by the lake, our resident blue heron named "Harold," wild turkeys, or the adorable families of ducklings that inhabit the area in the spring. Despite its proximity to the interstate and downtown, the property feels like a secluded nature preserve. Immerse yourself in the calming symphony of crickets chirping, fireflies dancing, horses playing, and the crackling of a fire as you roast marshmallows. We are conveniently located on a main road, making it easy to find and access the property. However, for your safety and the well-being of our animals, we kindly request that you refrain from entering any gated pastures, barns, or outbuildings. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this exceptional property that combines the best of both worlds - the convenience of city life and the tranquility of a nature retreat. Book your stay

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(123)

Shalamar Farm

3 sites · RVs13 acres · Lebanon, IN

Hosted over 240 rigs! Private home on 13 acres, with 3 RV sites, Studio apartment (900 sf) for rent, manicured lawn, garden, trees, peaceful area. Accept long term guests, traveling nurses professionals! Need a Groundskeeper, maybe swap rent/services. Welcome to Shalamar Farm, our second time around! NORTH: full hook ups, back in, rigs must be less than 35'. BOOKED UNTIL 6-2025 SOUTH: full hook ups, back in, rigs must be less than 30'. SHADE TREE: full hook ups, pull thru, rigs must be less than 25' Studio apartment: furnished with carpet, kitchenette with granite countertops and tile floor, 1 bathroom tile floor with shower, NO SMOKING, NO PETS. HOSPITALS: Lebanon 7 miles, Crawfordsville 19 miles, Zionsville 20 miles, Westfield 25 miles, Indianapolis (86th Street area) 26 miles, Carmel 31 miles. Friendly pets include George the horse, outdoor cats Leroy and Lowell. Eastern time zone and good cell coverage.

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Life Sanctuaries

7 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Centerpoint, IN

The farm is one settled by the early pioneers who stopped going west in the early 1800s after they crossed the Eel river in what was then Owen County, Indiana. Later, it became part of Clay County with the addition of Cass Township. This working farm is comprised of 200 acres of rolling pastures and woodlands in the heart of Hoosier Hospitality - Indiana. Learn more about this land:Tent, car, and RV camping with a place for your horse too!You get your choice of where to hookup or pitch your tent and also enjoy all of the nearby attractions. There are state parks with swimming, and the Exotic Feline Rescue Center which is a little like going on a Safari!Nearby attractions include the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival and the Croy's Creek Traders Fair. We are within a mile of the Eel River and Cataract Lake is also very close for boating and fishing. Other attractions include the Owen/Putnam State Forest and McCormicks Creek State Park. An abundance of wildlife can also be seen at the campsite.

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(15)

Coop Dreams Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Marshall, IL

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.

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Heavenly Acres Creek side Camp

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Thorntown, IN

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.

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(29)

Acacia Farms

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Brownsburg, IN

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.

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(14)

Neighbor Acres

1 site · RV15 acres · Clayton, IN

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

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Overland camping at the 1938 barn

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Rockville, IN

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. May see us feeding animals or tending garden. There is also a livestock guardian dog (Cotton) on property, we just ask that you please do not feed her or leave food/trash laying around for her to find. 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. Ask us about purchasing a bag of fresh meat or veggies from our market garden Henrysmarketindiana.com

The best camping near Shades State Park 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.