Deam Lake State Recreation Area

4.11

73 reviews

1217 DEAM LAKE ROAD, BORDEN, Indiana, 47106, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

597 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Beach area opens Mem...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

597 ft

Price

$7 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Beach area opens Mem...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Deam Lake State Recreation Area

$7.00 - $9.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Entrance fees are $7 per car for in-state visitors and $9 per car for out-of-state visitors.

Standard Site Fee$23.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.11

Satisfactory

Based on 73 reviews

1635 Google reviews

Most mentioned

friendly

Some mention

crowdedunlevel

"User reviews for Deam Lake Recreation Area are mixed but lean positive. The park is praised for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and friendly staff. Criticisms often focus on maintenance issues, particularly with restroom cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1217 DEAM LAKE ROAD, BORDEN, Indiana, 47106, United States

Deam Lake State Recreation Area

1217 DEAM LAKE ROAD, BORDEN, Indiana, 47106, United States

Driving directionsI-65 to exit #7 (Salem-Hamburg) turn onto Hwy 60 West. Proceed for approximately 9 miles on Highway 60 West. The park is located on the right-hand side of the road.

Road access is paved and suitable for most vehicles. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Horseshoe Casino - 26 Miles

Louisville Fairgrounds - 24 Miles.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are within 10 miles.

Best Time to Camp at Deam Lake State Recreation Area

From the vibrant blooms of late spring through the golden hues of mid-fall, Deam Lake reveals its finest character. These prime months deliver sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and comfortable evenings around the campfire. The consistently dry conditions and moderate temperatures create an outdoor paradise where every activity shines. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a quieter retreat—while some facilities may have limited access, the crisp air and peaceful atmosphere offer a different kind of camping magic for those seeking solitude.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season May–Sep; beach open Memorial–Labor Day and many summer reviews praise activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall reviews emphasize hiking and attractive fall colors; comfortable hiking season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late spring blooms and comfortable weather make it appealing for hiking and early water use.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winter reviews note limited water/services; beach closed and fewer activities available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May to September is considered peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Beach area opens Memorial Day and closes Labor Day; other facilities may operate seasonally.
Current Alerts: Some reviews mention closures of facilities such as restrooms.

About Deam Lake State Recreation Area

Nestled in Indiana's scenic countryside, Deam Lake State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse camping experiences. Whether you're seeking the comfort of electric hookups, arriving with your equestrian companions at specialized horse stall sites, or preferring the cozy retreat of rental cabins, this versatile destination accommodates every camping style. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line into the shimmering waters, paddle across the peaceful lake, explore winding hiking trails, or saddle up for memorable rides along dedicated equestrian paths. Families particularly treasure the engaging nature programs that bring the area's ecology to life.

Deam Lake Recreation Area caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV, tent, cabin, and equestrian camping.

Historical SignificanceThe story of this cherished recreation area continues to unfold with each visiting family, every sunrise over the water, and all the memories created within its boundaries. While its formal history may be unwritten, the land speaks through the experiences of countless visitors who have found respite and adventure here.

Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant blooms of late spring through the golden hues of mid-fall, Deam Lake reveals its finest character. These prime months deliver sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and comfortable evenings around the campfire. The consistently dry conditions and moderate temperatures create an outdoor paradise where every activity shines. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a quieter retreat—while some facilities may have limited access, the crisp air and peaceful atmosphere offer a different kind of camping magic for those seeking solitude.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates natural vantage points throughout the recreation area, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape. Each campsite and trail provides its own unique relationship with the land's subtle topography.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering trees create a living canopy overhead and well-maintained trails wind through diverse forest ecosystems. The centerpiece man-made lake mirrors the sky and surrounding woodlands, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn. Visitors consistently praise the area's ability to blend natural beauty with accessibility—where morning mist rises from the water, wildflowers dot the meadows, and the forest provides both adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

Geological RegionSet within the distinctive SPR geological region, Deam Lake showcases nature's artistry through its varied formations and forested ridges. The man-made lake harmoniously complements the area's natural contours, creating a seamless blend of human design and geological heritage. This unique setting provides campers with both the recreational benefits of the lake and the authentic experience of camping within Indiana's remarkable geological landscape.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM (Monday-Saturday)
5:00 PM on Sundays and holidays.

Check-out

3:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is determined by the park manager subject to discretion.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of six people per site with one main camping unit, one additional tent, and one dining fly.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutDivided into loops including D and F as regular campsites and sections for horse camping and cabins.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through the park's official site.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve availability patterns are not mentioned.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are subject to the property manager's discretion.

AccessibilityThe beach area offers wheelchair accessibility. However, specific details about accessibility features for campsites and restrooms are not provided.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with maximum equipment lengths ranging from 29 to 73 feet.

PrivacyPrivacy varies across sites. Some reviewers noted that sites are spacious, while others mentioned that sites are too close together or lack privacy.

Total Campsites50 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites in loops D and F for more level terrain based on user feedback.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Deam Lake offers diverse recreational activities, from water-based activities like fishing, boating, and swimming to land-based options such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Cultural programs are also available at the Forest Education Center.

HikingHiking trails include the Knobstone Trail, Indiana's longest trail. Difficulty levels range from easy to moderate, but some trails are reported to have maintenance issues, such as downed trees.

FishingFishing opportunities include species like bluegill, bass, crappie, and channel catfish. One user noted, 'Fishing here was great. We had the best luck early morning.'

SwimmingSwimming is available at the beach area, which features safety ropes to limit depth. Some users found the water 'dirty and stagnant,' while others enjoyed the experience, especially for children.

BikingMountain bike trails are available with varied terrain. The park also has roads suitable for casual biking.

BoatingBoating activities include kayak and rowboat rentals. Rowboats are noted as less satisfactory by some reviewers compared to the kayaks.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities exist, with deer sightings common. The park is also known for bird watching.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsReviews highlight unlevel sites and sharp objects in the beach area. Wildlife interactions and trails with downed trees may pose challenges.

Active AlertsSome reviews mention closures of facilities such as restrooms.

Fire PolicyCampfires permitted in designated rings. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are located within 10 miles.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are provided for disposal, including specific dumpsters for stall site manure. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated adjacent to a man-made lake with a beach area.

Camp HostCampground hosts are mentioned as helpful in reviews.

Weather at Deam Lake State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.1

73 reviews

Satisfactory

Deam Lake State Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Deam Lake Recreation Area are mixed but lean positive. The park is praised for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and friendly staff. Criticisms often focus on maintenance issues, particularly with restroom cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently mention the park's beauty, range of activities, and family-friendly environment. Cabins are described as 'nice and cute,' and fishing is highlighted as a great activity.

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include unclean restrooms, uneven campsites, and inadequately enforced rules such as quiet hours and speed limits.

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing your own bedding for cabin stays, arriving early to secure the best beach spots, and exploring the Knobstone Trail for hiking. Early morning fishing is noted to be most...

Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer appears to be the most popular season, with many reviews highlighting beach activities. Fall reviews emphasize hiking and the park's beauty. Winter reviews note limited water availability and...

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Fishing here was great. We had the best luck early morning.' 2. 'The cabins are so nice and cute! The whole campground is well kept.' 3. 'Restrooms/showers at the lake could use a good cleaning...

Based on 73 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback is sparse, but one user noted that site A11 was 'too steep of inclined to level MH.' Other users mentioned less crowded and more level sites in the horse camp area.

Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are limited. One user highlighted wheelchair accessibility to the beach.

Based on 73 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome at Deam Lake, but they must be on a leash no longer than six feet. One user expressed dissatisfaction with the enforcement of pet-related rules.

Based on 73 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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