Raccoon Lake
00 review1588 S. Raccoon Pkwy, ROCKVILLE, Indiana, 47872, United States
Raccoon Lake
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee range for campsites is $25 to $35, depending on the type of site and amenities.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the shimmering waters of Cecil M. Harden Lake, Raccoon Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover a perfect blend of adventure and history. This cherished destination within the Raccoon State Recreation Area offers an escape where mornings begin with fishing lines cast into peaceful waters and evenings end beneath star-filled skies. Whether you're pitching a tent for the weekend, exploring scenic hiking trails, or launching your boat for a day on the lake, this versatile outdoor playground promises memories for every type of adventurer. Just steps away, the meticulously preserved Mansfield Roller Mill stands as a testament to the area's rich industrial heritage, adding a fascinating historical dimension to your outdoor getaway.
Raccoon Lake supports a range of camping types, including primitive and RV camping. The campground is family-friendly, offering spaces with fire pits and picnic tables.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the remarkable Historic Mansfield Roller Mill, where the thundering machinery of 1880s industry has been frozen in time. This beautifully preserved mill stands as a monument to America's industrial revolution, its original equipment still ready to demonstrate how local farmers once transformed their grain into flour and cornmeal. The mill's weathered timbers and massive grinding stones tell the story of a community that thrived along Big Raccoon Creek, offering visitors a tangible connection to the pioneers and entrepreneurs who shaped this region over a century ago.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Indiana's seasonal beauty at Raccoon Lake, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking, while autumn transforms the native forests into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for swimming and boating adventures on the lake, though early mornings and late evenings offer respite from the heat. Winter visitors should come prepared for freezing temperatures that transform the landscape into a serene, frost-kissed wonderland—perfect for those seeking solitude and peaceful reflection.
ElevationThe campground's terrain offers gentle, rolling landscapes that make it accessible for campers of all ages and abilities, with varied topography that adds visual interest without challenging accessibility.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient forests meet modern recreation at every turn. Towering native hardwoods create a natural cathedral above the campground, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Along the winding banks of Big Raccoon Creek, dramatic rock outcrops rise like natural sculptures, carved by centuries of flowing water. The crown jewel of the area, Cecil M. Harden Lake, stretches across 2,060 acres, its waters reflecting sky and forest while supporting an impressive diversity of wildlife. From great blue herons stalking the shallows to wildflowers carpeting the meadows, nature's gallery is on full display throughout the seasons.
Geological RegionSituated within Indiana's distinctive SPR region, Raccoon Lake Campground showcases a fascinating geological story written in stone and water. The landscape bears witness to ancient forces that created the area's signature large rock outcrops, now weathered into dramatic formations along Big Raccoon Creek. The creation of Cecil M. Harden Lake through flood control efforts has enhanced this natural amphitheater, creating a unique ecosystem where original native forests blend seamlessly with the engineered waterscape. This marriage of natural geology and human ingenuity has resulted in one of Indiana's most diverse and visually striking recreational landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible toilets are available, but there is no further detail on accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as having adequate space for two cars per site.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are closely spaced, providing minimal to no privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggested bringing beach shoes and umbrellas for the coarse sand and lack of shade at the beach.
Best CampsitesPrimitive sites received positive mentions in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not specified
Guests Allowed Per Site
2cars per site
Groups
Group camping details are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites include picnic tables and fire pits; RV sites equipped with necessities.
Open and Closed SeasonNot specified
Reservation PlatformsNot specified
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified
Cancellation PolicyNot specified
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Raccoon Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake's beach area provides a fun swimming environment, while trails cater to varying difficulty levels. Seasonal programs enrich the cultural and natural experience.
Hiking
The campground offers hiking trails with difficulty levels ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for all skill levels.Fishing
The lake supports fishing activities, with a dedicated fishing pier and a fish cleaning station.Swimming
A beach area on the lake is available for swimming, although the sand is described as coarse. There is no shade, and beach shoes are recommended.Boating
The lake facilitates boating, with amenities like boat ramps, rentals, and docks for various types of boats including motorized and jon boats.Wildlife viewing
Campers can observe a variety of native fish, flora, and fauna, along with the ever-present raccoons that are a hallmark of the area.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing, complemented by a snack shack and a store. No pets are allowed on the beach.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Historic Mansfield Roller Mill nearby offers an educational glimpse into Indiana's industrial history.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water skiing and canoeing are available on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings and cooking pits available.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of raccoons in the area, as noted by users; food storage precautions recommended.
Active alertsNo active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles: emergency services including hospital and cultural sites.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified
Trash and recyclingThere are dumpsters for trash disposal. Recycling station available within 10 miles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Cecil M. Harden Lake and Big Raccoon Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews noted lack of privacy due to close campsite proximity, coarse beach sand, and raccoons scavenging near campsites.
HostCampground hosts are available within the facility.
Campground Map
1588 S. Raccoon Pkwy, ROCKVILLE, Indiana, 47872, United States
Driving directionsFrom the North: From Chicago travel south on US 41 to US 36 East to Property Entrance. From the South: North on US 231 to US 36 West to the Property Entrance. From the East: From Indianapolis travel West on US 36 to the Property Entrance. From the West: Travel East on US 36 through Rockville to the Property Entrance.
Accessible via major highways US 41 and US 36, with no mention of unpaved roads or seasonal closures.Nearby places
Lieber State Recreation Area - 36 miles
Shades State Park - 24 miles
Turkey Run State Park - 22 miles.
Nearby supplies
Within Facility: Convenience store, grocery store, fuel for vehicles, retail supplies. Greater than 1 mile: fishing river/stream and hunting locations.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Raccoon Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-liked for its natural beauty, diverse amenities, and recreational opportunities. However, closely spaced campsites and the presence of raccoons are notable drawbacks.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praise the beautiful lake, clean facilities, and family-friendly environment. The beach area and variety of recreational activities also receive positive mentions.
Common Concerns
Campsites are closely spaced, offering little privacy. Raccoons are a persistent presence, scavenging through food and trash. The beach sand is coarse, and there is limited shade available.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring beach shoes for the coarse sand, an umbrella or gazebo for shade, and securely store food and trash to avoid raccoons. Families may find it more enjoyable, but those seeking privacy might...
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Seasonal Insights
Warm months are popular for beach activities, boating, and hiking. The raccoon presence remains consistent, with peak activity just after dark.
Camper Quotes
"A lot of raccoons just after dark, definitely see how it has the name. Make sure u put up all ur food/trash." - Christina Peterson. "Great primitive sites!" - Stephanie Thurston. "Beautiful lake....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Primitive sites are positively reviewed for their proximity to basic facilities despite their simplicity.
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews on accessibility are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets should be kept on a leash due to the raccoon activity. Pets are not allowed on the beach.
Last updated August 10, 2025