Best Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in Indiana
Indiana offers a treasure trove of affordable RV camping experiences that won't break the bank. From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of Brown County, the Hoosier State provides budget-conscious travelers with exceptional options for outdoor adventures. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, finding economical campgrounds with great amenities is key to maximizing your travel budget.
In this guide, we'll explore the most affordable RV camping destinations across Indiana, highlighting their amenities, nearby attractions, and insider tips to help you save even more. These wallet-friendly campgrounds prove that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy quality facilities and beautiful surroundings. Let's discover how to experience the best of Indiana's outdoor wonders while keeping your camping costs low.

Northern Indiana's Best Budget RV Campgrounds
Northern Indiana offers some of the state's most affordable RV camping options, with easy access to Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes, and charming Amish communities. These campgrounds combine value with excellent amenities and proximity to popular attractions.
Twin Mills Camping Resort - Howe

Price Range: $30-45 per night
Twin Mills offers one of the best values in Northern Indiana with its beautiful, quiet setting featuring tall trees and spacious sites. Located near the Michigan border, this campground provides affordable full hookup options and basic sites for those on a tighter budget.
Amenities:
- Water and electric hookups
- Clean restrooms and shower facilities
- Fishing pond
- Mini-golf course
- Playground for children
- Laundry facilities
Nearby Attractions:
Just a short drive from Shipshewana's Amish attractions and the RV Capital of Elkhart, Twin Mills provides an economical base for exploring the region. The Shipshewana Flea Market, Amish restaurants, and furniture shops are all within 15 minutes of the campground.
Best Time to Visit: May through September offers the best weather, but consider mid-week stays for even lower rates and fewer crowds.
Shipshewana North Park Campground

Price Range: $35-50 per night
Located in the heart of Indiana's Amish Country, Shipshewana North Park offers affordable camping with a unique cultural experience. This family-friendly campground provides budget-conscious travelers with clean facilities and a convenient location for exploring the area's attractions.
Amenities:
- Full hookup RV sites
- Free Wi-Fi
- Clean bathhouses
- On-site ice cream stand
- Meeting room facilities
- Pet-friendly areas
Nearby Attractions:
The campground is minutes away from the Midwest's largest flea market, Amish buggy tours, and authentic Amish dining experiences. Budget travelers appreciate the ability to walk to many attractions, saving on transportation costs.
Reservation Tips: Book at least 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends, especially during flea market days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

Price Range: $23-35 per night
For budget travelers seeking natural beauty, Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers some of the best value in the state. With spacious sites nestled among oak, maple, and sycamore trees, this state park campground provides affordable access to Lake Michigan's stunning shoreline.
Amenities:
- Electric hookups (no water or sewer at sites)
- Modern restrooms and shower facilities
- Walking distance to beach
- Hiking trails
- Nature center with programs
- Dump station available
Money-Saving Tip:
Purchase an Indiana State Park Annual Pass ($50-80) if you plan to visit multiple state parks during your trip. The pass covers your entrance fees, which can quickly add up.
Reservation Information: Sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance through the Indiana DNR website. Book early for summer weekends as this popular park fills quickly despite its 140+ sites.
Central Indiana's Affordable RV Destinations
Central Indiana offers convenient camping options close to Indianapolis and other major attractions, with several budget-friendly RV parks that provide excellent value without sacrificing quality or location.
Lake Haven Retreat - Indianapolis

Price Range: $35-45 per night (weekly rates available)
One of the most affordable options near Indianapolis, Lake Haven Retreat offers budget-conscious travelers a convenient base for exploring the city while keeping camping costs low. The campground features a five-acre fishing lake and well-maintained facilities.
Amenities:
- Full hookup sites
- 30/50 amp service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fishing lake (no license required)
- Laundry facilities
- Clean restrooms and showers
Nearby Attractions:
Just minutes from downtown Indianapolis, guests can easily visit the Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and other attractions while saving significantly on accommodation costs compared to hotels.
Budget Tip: Ask about weekly rates, which can reduce your nightly cost by 15-20%. Monthly rates are also available for extended stays.
Glo Wood Campground - Pendleton

Price Range: $25-35 per night
Glo Wood Campground offers some of the most economical RV camping in central Indiana. This no-frills park provides clean, spacious sites with the basics covered at prices that budget travelers appreciate. The owners live on-site and maintain a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.
Amenities:
- Water and electric hookups
- Some full hookup sites are available
- Pull-through sites for easy access
- Basic restrooms and showers
- Pet-friendly
- Playground for children
Location Benefits:
Located just off I-69, Glo Wood provides easy access to Indianapolis (30 minutes away) while offering significantly lower rates than campgrounds closer to the city. The rural setting provides a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Reservation Information: This small campground doesn't typically require advance reservations except during major Indianapolis events. Call ahead to check availability.
White River Campground - Cicero

Price Range: $25-40 per night
This Hamilton County park offers excellent value for RVers seeking a water-side camping experience. Situated on the west bank of the White River, this public campground provides affordable rates with scenic views and good amenities.
Amenities:
- Water and electric hookups
- Some full hookup sites
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Laundry facilities
- Fishing access
- Hiking trails
Money-Saving Activities:
The river provides free recreation opportunities including fishing and wildlife watching. The campground also offers games and activities that don't require additional fees, making it ideal for families on a budget.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the best combination of pleasant weather and lower occupancy. Summer weekends tend to fill quickly, especially during local events.
Southern Indiana's Value RV Parks
Southern Indiana's rolling hills and forests provide a scenic backdrop for some of the state's most affordable RV camping options. These budget-friendly destinations offer excellent amenities while keeping costs low.
Brown County State Park Campgrounds

Price Range: $23-30 per night
Known as the "Little Smokies," Brown County State Park offers three campground areas (Buffalo Ridge, Taylor Ridge, and Raccoon Ridge) with some of the most affordable RV camping in southern Indiana. The park's stunning natural beauty, especially during fall foliage season, provides tremendous value.
Amenities:
- Electric hookups
- Modern restrooms and shower houses
- Dump station
- Access to hiking trails
- Nature center
- Olympic-sized swimming pool (seasonal, small fee)
Budget-Friendly Activities:
With over 20 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and scenic overlooks, the park offers days of free recreation. The nearby town of Nashville provides additional attractions with many free window-shopping opportunities.
Insider Tip: Buffalo Ridge tends to have more level sites for larger RVs, while Taylor Ridge offers more privacy with wooded sites. Book site-specific reservations online to ensure you get the right fit for your rig.
Hidden Paradise Campground - St. Paul

Price Range: $35-50 per night (discounts for weekly stays)
True to its name, Hidden Paradise offers budget-conscious travelers an affordable water recreation destination. Located along Flat Rock River, this campground provides economical rates with excellent water-based amenities that typically cost much more elsewhere.
Amenities:
- Full hookup sites available
- 30/50 amp service
- Swimming quarry with floating trampoline
- Kayak and canoe rentals
- Fishing opportunities
- Clean shower facilities
Value Features:
The campground's quarry swimming area with water slide and floating recreation equipment provides resort-like water fun at a fraction of the cost of water parks or commercial recreation areas. Families especially appreciate the included water activities.
Money-Saving Tip: Ask about their "Stay 6 nights, get the 7th free" offer for extended vacations. Bringing your own kayak or fishing equipment can also save on rental fees.
Shakamak State Park Campground

Price Range: $23-33 per night
Offering some of the best value in southwestern Indiana, Shakamak State Park features heavily wooded campsites with excellent shade and privacy at budget-friendly rates. The park's three lakes spanning 400 acres provide ample recreation opportunities included with your camping fee.
Amenities:
- Electric hookups
- Some full hookup sites
- Modern restrooms and showers
- Swimming beach (seasonal)
- Boat rentals
- Fishing opportunities
Nearby Attractions:
Located near the small town of Jasonville, the park offers a peaceful retreat with lakes known for excellent fishing. The seasonal aquatic center provides additional swimming options for a small fee.
Reservation Information: Sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance. The campground rarely fills completely except on holiday weekends, making it a good last-minute option.
Money-Saving Tips for RV Camping in Indiana
Beyond choosing affordable campgrounds, these practical strategies can help you stretch your camping budget even further while exploring Indiana.

Timing Your Visit
- Off-Season Savings: Camp between September-May (excluding holidays) for rates up to 30% lower than peak summer prices.
- Weekday Discounts: Many campgrounds offer Sunday-Thursday specials with significant savings over weekend rates.
- Last-Minute Deals: Some campgrounds offer discounted rates for same-week bookings to fill empty sites.
Maximizing Amenities
- Free Recreation: Choose campgrounds with included amenities like swimming, hiking, and fishing to avoid paying for entertainment.
- Bring Your Own: Pack recreation equipment (kayaks, bikes, fishing gear) rather than renting on-site.
- Campground Programs: Take advantage of free ranger programs and activities at state parks.
Membership Savings
- Good Sam Club: Many Indiana campgrounds offer 10% discounts for members.
- AAA Discounts: Several private campgrounds honor AAA membership with 10-15% savings.
- Military/Senior Discounts: Most campgrounds offer special rates for veterans, active military, and seniors (typically 62+).
Food & Supplies
- Meal Planning: Prepare meals at your campsite instead of dining out.
- Local Markets: Shop at Indiana's farmers markets for fresh, affordable produce.
- Bring Firewood: Purchase firewood off-site (following transport regulations) to save on campground prices.
Ready to Save on Your Indiana RV Adventure?
Start planning your budget-friendly camping trip with our free Indiana RV Camping Savings Guide.
Download Free Savings GuideState Parks vs. Private Campgrounds: Budget Comparison
Understanding the pros and cons of state parks versus private campgrounds can help you make the most economical choice for your specific needs.

Indiana State Parks
- Average Cost: $23-35 per night
- Hookups: Typically electric only, some with water
- Spacing: Generally more spacious sites with natural settings
- Recreation: Included hiking trails, beaches, and nature programs
- Reservation System: Centralized booking through DNR website
- Additional Fees: Daily entrance fee ($7-9) unless you have annual pass
Private Campgrounds
- Average Cost: $35-60 per night
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer) more common
- Spacing: Often closer together with less privacy
- Recreation: Swimming pools, game rooms, organized activities
- Reservation System: Individual booking systems, often with online options
- Additional Fees: May charge for Wi-Fi, premium sites, or certain activities
Best Budget Choice For:
Choose State Parks If You:
- Prioritize natural settings and hiking opportunities
- Don't need full hookups or can use dump stations
- Plan to stay multiple nights (entrance fee becomes more economical)
- Appreciate more space between campsites
- Will visit multiple state parks (annual pass becomes economical)
Choose Private Campgrounds If You:
- Need full hookups for convenience
- Want amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, and swimming pools
- Prefer locations closer to towns and attractions
- Value organized activities and social opportunities
- Need more flexible cancellation policies
"We've found that alternating between state parks and budget-friendly private campgrounds gives us the best of both worlds. State parks for nature immersion, private parks when we need to catch up on laundry and enjoy full hookups."
Seasonal Considerations for Budget RV Camping in Indiana
Indiana's distinct seasons each offer unique advantages and challenges for budget-conscious RV campers. Understanding these seasonal patterns can help you find the best values throughout the year.
Spring (March-May)
Budget Advantage: Lower Rates & Good Availability
Spring offers excellent value with rates often 20-30% lower than summer prices. Many campgrounds offer "spring opening specials" to attract early season campers.
Weather Considerations:
Temperatures range from 40s-70s°F with occasional rain. Pack layers and rain gear. Some campgrounds may have muddy conditions after spring thaws.
Budget Tips:
- Look for "spring opening" specials at private campgrounds
- State parks are rarely crowded mid-week in spring
- Many attractions have lower shoulder-season rates
Summer (June-August)
Budget Challenge: Peak Season Rates
Summer brings the highest prices and fullest campgrounds, especially on weekends and holidays. However, budget options still exist with proper planning.
Weather Considerations:
Warm and humid with temperatures typically in the 70s-90s°F. Thunderstorms are common in afternoon/evening. Air conditioning usage will increase your electricity costs if metered.
Budget Tips:
- Book Sunday-Thursday stays for lower rates
- Look for campgrounds offering weekly rate discounts
- Consider less popular locations away from major attractions
- Book well in advance (3-6 months) for best site selection
Fall (September-November)
Budget Advantage: Decreasing Rates with Peak Scenery
Fall offers an excellent combination of lower rates and spectacular scenery, particularly in southern Indiana's forested regions. After Labor Day, many campgrounds reduce their rates by 15-25%.
Weather Considerations:
Generally pleasant with temperatures from 40s-70s°F. Nights can be chilly, especially in late fall. Less humidity makes for comfortable camping.
Budget Tips:
- Early-mid October offers the best foliage in southern Indiana
- Late September and November have the lowest rates
- Many campgrounds offer fall festival weekends with included activities
- Bring warm sleeping bags to reduce propane heating costs
Winter (December-February)
Budget Advantage: Lowest Rates & Special Offers
For the truly budget-conscious, winter camping offers the absolute lowest rates of the year, with some campgrounds reducing prices by 40-50%. However, many campgrounds close or offer limited services.
Weather Considerations:
Cold temperatures ranging from 20s-40s°F with occasional snow and ice. Proper RV winterization is essential. Some water systems may be shut down at campgrounds.
Budget Tips:
- Look for campgrounds offering monthly winter rates
- Check which facilities remain open (some bathhouses close)
- Prepare for higher propane usage in heating costs
- Consider southern Indiana locations for milder winter conditions
Year-Round Budget Options
These campgrounds offer excellent value with year-round operations:
- Lake Haven Retreat (Indianapolis) - Open year-round with heated facilities
- Follow the River RV Resort (Florence) - Winter rates up to 40% off summer prices
- Elkhart County Fairgrounds - Basic year-round camping with excellent rates
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget RV Camping in Indiana
What is the average cost of RV camping in Indiana?
The average cost for RV camping in Indiana ranges from $23-60 per night depending on the type of campground, amenities, and season. State parks typically offer the most affordable rates ($23-35), while private campgrounds with full hookups range from $35-60. Many campgrounds offer weekly rates that can reduce the nightly cost by 15-25%.
Are there any free RV camping options in Indiana?
True free camping (boondocking) is limited in Indiana compared to western states. However, some options include:
- Select Walmart stores (with manager permission)
- Some Cracker Barrel restaurants
- Certain Bass Pro Shops/Cabela's locations
- Harvest Hosts locations (requires membership)
Always call ahead to confirm if overnight parking is permitted, as policies vary by location.
Do Indiana campgrounds offer monthly rates for longer stays?
Yes, many private campgrounds offer monthly rates that can significantly reduce your daily cost. Monthly rates typically range from $400-800 depending on the campground and amenities. Some locations like Elkhart County Fairgrounds, Johnson County Fairgrounds, and Heartland Resort offer particularly economical monthly options. State parks generally do not offer monthly rates and often limit stays to 14 consecutive days.
What amenities can I expect at budget-friendly campgrounds?
Most budget-friendly campgrounds in Indiana still offer good basic amenities including:
- Water and electric hookups (30 amp, sometimes 50 amp)
- Restrooms and shower facilities
- Dump stations (if not full hookup)
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Basic recreational facilities (playgrounds, fishing areas)
Premium amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, swimming pools, and organized activities are more common at mid-range and luxury campgrounds but can sometimes be found at budget options.
What's the best time to find deals on Indiana RV camping?
The best times for deals are:
- Early Spring (March-April): Many campgrounds offer "opening specials"
- Late Fall (October-November): After the fall foliage peak
- Midweek stays: Sunday-Thursday rates are often 10-30% lower
- Last-minute bookings: Some campgrounds offer discounts to fill empty sites
- Winter camping: The absolute lowest rates for campgrounds that remain open
Enjoy Indiana on a Budget: Final Thoughts
Indiana proves that quality RV camping doesn't have to break the bank. From the stunning dunes along Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of Brown County, budget-conscious travelers can experience the full range of Indiana's natural beauty and attractions while keeping camping costs affordable.
By choosing economical campgrounds, taking advantage of seasonal pricing, and utilizing the money-saving tips outlined in this guide, you can create memorable RV adventures throughout the Hoosier State without straining your travel budget. Whether you prefer the natural settings of state parks or the amenities of private campgrounds, Indiana offers excellent value options for every type of RVer.
Remember that booking in advance is particularly important for securing the best budget sites during peak seasons, while flexibility with travel dates can yield significant savings during shoulder seasons. With proper planning, your Indiana RV camping experience can be both affordable and unforgettable.
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