EXPLORE · FREE CAMPING

Free Camping in Indiana

6 No-Fee Sites 5 with Restroom 3 with Water

Indiana's Hoosier National Forest in the south-central hills allows dispersed camping in designated areas. The Charles C. Deam Wilderness has backcountry dispersed camping accessible by trail. The Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest near Paoli protects old-growth trees and has some primitive sites nearby. Indiana's dispersed camping terrain is limited compared to western states.

No reservations needed for dispersed camping. Check fire restrictions at fs.usda.gov before your trip — restrictions change frequently in summer. Stay limit is typically 14 days at any one location. Find free camping on the Trek4Free map →

Before You Go

Gear up for dispersed camping — no hookups, no camp store, no running water

Free Camping Sites in Indiana

Saddle Lake Campground
Restroom Water 6 sites

Small quiet primitive campground near Saddle Lake in Hoosier National Forest, Perry County. Vault toilet on site. No water — bring your own. Peaceful lakeside s…

📍 38.0608, 86.6554°W 📅 Year-round
Hickory Ridge Campground
Restroom Water

Overview Hickory Ridge is a primitive campground located near the Hickory Ridge Trail system. Recreation Hickory Ridge Campground provides access to the Hickory…

📍 38.9765, 86.2935°W
Youngs Creek Campground
Restroom Water

Overview A primitive campground with vault toilets, hitching racks, and a picnic shelter is available. Around 12 and half miles of trails are available for hiki…

📍 38.5036, 86.4659°W
Buzzard Roost Campground
Restroom

Overview A scenic location for hiking and camping. Parking areas are available at the first trailhead access and at the picnic/camping spur. Tables, grills, gar…

📍 38.1201, 86.4656°W
Shirley Creek Campground
Restroom

Overview Shirley Creek is a primitive campground. There is no use fee at this site. Recreation Shirley Creek Campground offers access to the Shirley Creek Trail…

📍 38.6496, 86.5984°W
BLACKWELL CAMPGROUND
400 sites

BLACKWELL HORSE CAMP (Horse Camp)

📍 39.0168, 86.3897°W