As the temperatures cool and the leaves begin to change, many Indiana families are looking for ways to spend more time outdoors together. Camping near Indianapolis offers a chance to relax under the stars, explore nature, and enjoy activities that appeal to both kids and adults. Plus, fall camping is so cozy, and it even makes a great fall break activity! Local family fun expert Katy Mann, founder of Indy With Kids, stopped by Fox59’s morning show, Indy Now, to share some of the best fall camping destinations in the state for families who want to make the most of the season.
Brown County State Park
Brown County is one of the most popular camping destinations in Indiana, and for good reason. If you’re new to camping, this is a great place to start. You don’t even have to rough it in a tent—there are cabins, the Abe Martin Lodge, and even businesses that will deliver and set up an RV for you so you can just show up and relax. The park itself is beautiful with endless trails, incredible views, and year-round recreation. My family loves the indoor waterpark at the lodge, which is perfect for younger kids who want to splash no matter the weather. Brown County is gorgeous in every season, but fall is especially spectacular with the changing leaves. Don’t forget to get your Indiana State Parks Pass.
Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run is another family favorite and one of the most scenic places to camp in the state. The hiking trails here are unlike anywhere else in Indiana—you’ll wander through sandstone gorges, across suspension bridges, and under towering trees that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. There’s also canoeing, kayaking, and even inner tubing on the river if the weather is warm enough. With rentals available, you don’t need to bring your own gear to enjoy a day on the water. Even if you just want a weekend of hiking and exploring, Turkey Run delivers big on natural beauty and family fun.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Heading north, the Indiana Dunes are a must-visit camping destination. It’s Indiana’s very first national park, and it’s full of adventure. Families love the wide sandy beaches, where kids can build sandcastles and splash in the waves of Lake Michigan. Beyond the beach, there are miles of hiking trails, dunes to climb, and unique ecosystems to explore. One of the best parts of the Dunes is how accessible it is—there are accessible trails, campsites, and even a path that leads wheelchairs right to the water’s edge. If camping in the park isn’t your style, you’ll also find nearby KOAs and Jellystone campgrounds that add their own family-friendly touches, like themed weekends and even foam parties.
Summit Lake State Park
For families who love being on the water, Summit Lake is a beautiful camping spot east of Indianapolis. You’ll find open campgrounds, wooded trails, and lakeside campsites where you can wake up to the sound of water lapping on the shore. Canoeing and kayaking are especially popular here, and rentals are available. My kids love paddling out onto the water and spotting wildlife along the way in one of the best places to get outdoors near Indianapolis. It’s less than an hour from Indianapolis, so you get that “away from it all” feeling without a long drive.
Lake Monroe
Lake Monroe is Indiana’s largest lake, and it’s a fantastic place for families who want variety. There are three beaches in the state park where kids can play and swim, plus plenty of options for boating, fishing, and biking. You can camp right at the park or choose one of the nearby campgrounds. And since it’s so close to Bloomington, there are plenty of fun side trips if you want to mix in some city exploring. Just keep in mind that football weekends can make things extra busy, so plan accordingly.
Make Camping Your Family Tradition
Camping doesn’t have to mean roughing it. With options ranging from tents and cabins to RV rentals and state park inns, you can find a setup that works for your family’s comfort level. The best part is the time you’ll spend together, relaxing, exploring, and making memories in some of Indiana’s most beautiful places. You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re on vacation. Right here in Indiana, you can fall asleep under the stars and wake up to adventure.
For more family-friendly ideas and camping tips, visit IndyWithKids.com, where we share the best places to play, explore, and connect with your kids in Central Indiana and beyond.
