How much does camping cost at Hardin Ridge?

Camping fees at Hardin Ridge are $24 - $64/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hardin Ridge first-come first-served or reservation?

Hardin Ridge accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hardin Ridge before I book?

Yes! Hardin Ridge has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hardin Ridge?

Hardin Ridge is open April 03 to October 24. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hardin Ridge?

Yes, Hardin Ridge has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Hardin Ridge have?

Hardin Ridge has 197 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hardin Ridge?

Yes, pets are allowed at Hardin Ridge. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Hardin Ridge?

Hardin Ridge offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Hardin Ridge?

Popular activities at Hardin Ridge include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hardin Ridge

Q: Can I have a campfire at Hardin Ridge?

Fire policies at Hardin Ridge: Firewood is defined as any part or portion of a tree that has been cut and removed from its original location and is to be used as fuel for heating or cooking in an open pit, grill, fireplace, or stove. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.42

511 reviews

6464 Hardin Ridge Rd

Top 24% in INSpring

B+Report Card

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Indiana Boating Camping Indiana Fall Camping Indiana +7 more

Quick Facts

833 ft

Price

$24 - $64/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

197 campsites

Season

Open April 4 to Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on BA Services Inc.Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

833 ft

Price

$24 - $64/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

197 campsites

Season

Open April 4 to Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on BA Services Inc.Official Website

Get Directions

Hardin Ridge

$24.00 - $64.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $64.00; GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $59.00; GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC: $50.00; MANAGEMENT: $34.97; Management w/Electricity, Water &...

Standard Site Fee$21.00

Hookup Site Fee$28.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$21.00

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Provider

812-837-9453

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

6464 Hardin Ridge Rd

Hardin Ridge

6464 Hardin Ridge Rd

Nearby places

Bedford (approx. 19 miles), Bloomington (approx. 16 miles), Nashville, IN (day trip recommended, exact distance not provided in source materials).

Weather at Hardin Ridge

Current alerts(10)

All visitors must purchase a daily parking permit during the recreation season (April 15-October 15); The permit is $8/vehicle and buses are $8 for bus and driver plus $1 per person for each additional person.
Click here for more information on the Hoosier National Forest
Dates to remember at Hardin Ridge Recreation Area for the 2026 season: Happy 250th Birthday America Saturday, July 4, 2026, 12:00pm at the Amphitheater
Do not dump gray water or sewage on the grounds; there is a dump station located near the gatehouse

Best Time to Camp at Hardin Ridge

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery at Hardin Ridge — mid-September through mid-October brings crisp days (highs typically 55–75°F) and cool nights (40s–50s°F) that make hiking, biking and lakeside viewpoints especially pleasant. Autumn foliage on the hardwood ridges and limestone bluffs is at its peak, wildlife activity (deer, migrating songbirds) is high, and fishing often picks up as water cools. Expect higher weekend visitation during peak color weeks, so reserve sites early if you want a Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Described as the best season: crisp days and striking foliage make fall especially scenic and pleasant.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 03 to October 24. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 4 to October 25 for reservations. Peak season runs during this period.

About Hardin Ridge

Hardin Ridge sits on the shores of Monroe Lake in Hoosier National Forest, near Heltonville in south-central Indiana. Operated by BA Services Inc., this very large campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, primitive walk-in areas, group camping, and cabins spread across wooded ridges and lakeside lots. Visitors come for lake access, hiking forest trails, fishing, swimming, and biking through hardwood terrain with limestone bluffs.

Hardin Ridge provides diverse camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, walk-in sites, and primitive cabin rentals. Additionally, group camping is supported with spacious sites and shelters.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery at Hardin Ridge — mid-September through mid-October brings crisp days (highs typically 55–75°F) and cool nights (40s–50s°F) that make hiking, biking and lakeside viewpoints especially pleasant. Autumn foliage on the hardwood ridges and limestone bluffs is at its peak, wildlife activity (deer, migrating songbirds) is high, and fishing often picks up as water cools. Expect higher weekend visitation during peak color weeks, so reserve sites early if you want a Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation833 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies steep ridges and valleys carved from ancient bedrock, where hardwood forests cover limestone bluffs above Monroe Reservoir. Tall oaks, maples, and hickories create a dense canopy that filters light onto the forest floor. Spring brings waves of redbud and dogwood blooms cascading down hillsides. The reservoir stretches across the eastern horizon, visible from trails and select campsites. Autumn transforms the ridges into layered reds, golds, and ambers that draw visitors from across the Midwest.

Lodging & AccommodationsTwo primitive cabins are available with six bunk beds each, one of which is a double bed, accommodating up to 7 people. The cabins are situated between the swimming beach and boat launch area, and a shared toilet is nearby. Guests should note that pets are not allowed in or outside the cabins.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs include the Ted T. Turtle interpretive trail, which provides insights into local history, geology, and wildlife.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard sites allow 1 camping unit and up to 8 people. Double sites permit up to 2 camping units and 16 people.

Groups

Group shelters accommodate up to four vehicles. Two of the three shelters near the lake feature electricity and lighting. When not reserved, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and associated apps.

AccessibilityThe site offers accessible flush toilets, accessible vault toilets, and an accessible boat dock. Campground roads and facilities are designed to accommodate a range of mobility needs.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size. Many users highlighted spacious sites, such as 'large wooded lots' and 'roomy' spaces. However, some reviews noted challenges with leveling trailers at certain sites.

PrivacyMost campsites are reported as wooded and private. One user wrote, 'Each site is shady, and we generally have very good privacy,' while another noted, 'Sites aren't on top of each other.

Total Campsites197 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with electric hookups for RVs. Tent campers may prefer walk-in sites for greater privacy. Avoid sites with steep steps if mobility is a concern.

Best CampsitesSites 203 and 205 in Holland Loop get mentioned for privacy and convenience. Site 91 in Blue Gill Loop sits away from heavy traffic. Scout beforehand if possible. Terrain varies significantly, and some sites require leveling work for trailers. Steps leading to certain sites can be steep.

Need help booking Hardin Ridge?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Do not dump gray water or sewage on the grounds; there is a dump station located near the gatehouse Generators are permitted in Eads Loop only. They are not permitted in Holland, Bluegill, White Oak Pine and Southern Point Loops.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Hardin Ridge

Hardin Ridge offers an extensive range of recreational activities, making it suitable for families, solo campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The area features interpretive trails, a 300-foot swimming beach, and a 2-mile hiking and biking trail.

Boating4.5/5Top 6% in Indiana

3-lane launch ramp, 75-trailer parking and accessible launch support extensive boating access.

Hiking4.0/5

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming4.0/5Top 25% in Indiana

300-foot beach on Lake Monroe for swimming and sunbathing; sandy and grassy areas mentioned.

Biking4.0/5

Beach activities4.0/5

Dedicated 300-ft beach with sand and grassy areas for sunbathing and swimming.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Lake vistas, limestone bluffs, mature forest and fall color create plentiful photo opportunities.

Wildlife viewing3.5/5Hardwood forest habitat provides bird and wildlife viewing opportunities, but not marketed as a wildlife destination.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyFirewood is defined as any part or portion of a tree that has been cut and removed from its original location and is to be used as fuel for heating or cooking in an open pit, grill, fireplace, or stove

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed. Campers are encouraged to keep food sealed and dispose of waste properly due to raccoon activity.

Cell CoverageNo explicit information on cell phone reception. However, one user mentioned having 'Two bars T-mobile' during their stay, suggesting limited coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Hardin Ridge

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From Booking Sources

4.4

511 reviews

Recommended

Hardin Ridge is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Hardin Ridge receives high praise for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and range of amenities. Positive highlights include spacious sites, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Common complaints involve occasional issues with shower water pressure, unclear rules enforcement, and additional parking fees.

Review Summaries

Based on 511 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 511 reviews.

Site #91 (Bluegill Loop)Loved
Site #91 (Bluegill Loop) is noted for its privacy and proximity to a pond.
Site #136 (White Oak Loop)Loved
Site #136 (White Oak Loop) is praised for peacefulness but may have sloped terrain.

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, shaded and private lots, and friendly staff are frequently commended. One user stated, 'Beautiful tall mature forests and clean restrooms.'...

Based on 511 reviews

Common Concerns

Some campers reported issues with inconsistent rules enforcement and unfriendly management. Others mentioned cold water in showers and dissatisfaction with the additional parking pass fees.

Based on 511 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all necessary supplies as nearby stores are limited. Use the Merlin app to enhance birdwatching experiences. Campers frequently suggested scouting sites beforehand due to terrain variances and...

Based on 511 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are particularly praised for vibrant foliage, while summer sees higher visitation. Weekday visits are recommended for more solitude.

Based on 511 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The hosts and gate attendants are so kind and helpful. One of my favorite places.' 2. 'We stayed 5 nights in Pine. Very clean bathrooms. Loved the site.' 3. 'Hardin Ridge is a quiet oasis from...

Based on 511 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features include flush and vault toilets, boat docks, and well-shaded, paved roads for easy navigation. However, some sites have steep steps, which may pose challenges.

Based on 511 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted except in cabins. Reviewers highlight the need for pets to remain leashed at all times.

Based on 511 reviews

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Hardin Ridge

$24.00 - $64.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $64.00; GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $59.00; GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC: $50.00; MANAGEMENT: $34.97; Management w/Electricity, Water &...

Standard Site Fee$21.00

Hookup Site Fee$28.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$21.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

812-837-9453

Go if

You want lake access, shaded sites, and a range of camping options from primitive to full hookups in a national forest setting.

Skip if

You need reliably hot showers or prefer campgrounds with strict quiet-hour enforcement.

Nearby Campgrounds

Tower Ridge Road, Charles Deam Wilderness, Hoosier National Forest, Indiana

Blackwell Campground sits on an open grassy field in the Charles Deam Wilderness, offering dispersed camping for equestrians and tent campers. The free campground accommodates roughly 100 horse trailers with no designated sites. You choose your spot among scattered fire rings. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, hitching rails, corrals, and a loading ramp.

Hardin Ridge

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Hardin Ridge

Campground Map

Weather at Hardin Ridge

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Hardin Ridge

Planning Tips

About Hardin Ridge

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Hardin Ridge?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Hardin Ridge

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

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How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Directions

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Hardin Ridge

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Hardin Ridge

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Hardin Ridge?

Amenities available

Things to do at Hardin Ridge

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns