CERA Sports Park & Campground

For Indiana families seeking an unparalleled blend of outdoor adventure, active recreation, and relaxing comfort, CERA Sports Park & Campground in Columbus stands as a truly unique destination. Spanning an impressive 345 acres, CERA (Columbus Engine Research & Development Association) offers far more than a typical campground; it’s a comprehensive sports park and recreation hub designed to keep every member of the family engaged and entertained. With a stunning lake, a variety of camping options, and an extensive list of activities, it's quickly become a beloved spot for Hoosiers looking to create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Reviews frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the "beautiful views," and the "Great Lake," contributing to an overall "amazing" experience.

CERA Sports Park & Campground thrives on providing a dynamic environment where you can tailor your visit to your family's preferences. Whether you're an avid camper with a big RV, prefer the simplicity of a tent, or desire the comfort of a cabin, CERA has accommodations to suit your style. What truly sets it apart is the sheer volume of amenities and activities available on-site. While some activities may incur an additional fee, the sheer breadth of options means you could easily spend days within the park without ever needing to leave. It’s a place where the spirit of community and active living truly comes alive, making it a premier choice for a family getaway right here in the heart of Indiana.

CERA Sports Park & Campground is conveniently located at 3989 S 525 E, Columbus, IN 47203, USA. This central Indiana location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the state and surrounding regions. Columbus, Indiana, is a well-known city, celebrated for its unique modernist architecture and vibrant community, offering additional attractions just a short drive from the campground.

For travelers, CERA is readily accessible via major roadways. From Interstate 65 (I-65), you can take Exit 64 (Walesboro Road), head east for about 6.4 miles on 450S until you reach US 31. Turn north (left) on US 31 for approximately 2.0 miles to State Road 46, then head east (right) on State Road 46 for about 1.5 miles to CR525 E. Turn south (right) on CR525 E, and the park entrance will be approximately 0.7 miles down the road on your left. This direct route ensures a smooth journey for campers arriving with RVs, trailers, or cars. Despite its expansive property, the park is well-signposted, making navigation within the grounds straightforward. Its strategic placement in Bartholomew County means residents from Indianapolis, Louisville, Cincinnati, and other regional cities can enjoy a relatively short drive to this activity-packed destination, combining the tranquility of nature with easy access to urban amenities in Columbus.

• Diverse Campsite Options: CERA offers 308 campsites, including 234 full hookup (water, electric, sewer) RV sites, with many being spacious pull-throughs up to 80 feet long. Additionally, there are water and electric sites, and primitive tent sites.
• Cabin Rentals: Six rustic Camping Cabins are available, some located on treed lakefront lots. These cabins offer a full-size bed and a bunk bed, providing a comfortable option for those without a tent or RV. Three on-site camper rentals are also available.
• Aquatic Center: Features multiple swimming pools, including a large main pool, a "Mushroom Pool," and an "Overlook Pool," offering a refreshing escape. Note: Swimming often requires an additional fee for campers, typically covered by a Fun Day bracelet.
• Restaurant & Lounge: A restaurant ("The Landing") offers delicious food like pizza and wings, along with a full bar, providing convenient dining options on-site.
• Golf Cart Rentals: Golf carts are available for rent, making it easier to navigate the expansive park.
• Clean Bathhouses & Showers: Three bathhouse facilities are available, with showers providing hot water (though sometimes experiences can vary during peak times).
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry services are provided for camper convenience.
• Camp Store: A general store provides essentials, snacks, and camping supplies.
• Propane & Firewood: Available for purchase on-site.
• Dump Station: A centrally located dump station is free for campers and available for a fee ($15) for non-campers.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wireless internet access is available throughout the park.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground with some restrictions, though not at the beach or inside certain facilities.

• Extensive Sports and Recreation Facilities: CERA boasts an impressive array of activities, including an 18-hole mini-golf course, a driving range, an 18-hole disc golf course, outdoor courts for tennis, pickleball (new courts!), basketball, sand volleyball, and horseshoe pits.
• Whittington Go-Kart Track: A popular attraction offering thrilling rides for all ages.
• Lake Lucille: An 11-acre stocked lake perfect for fishing (bluegill, bass, crappie, catfish, perch, sunfish) and paddle boating. Beautiful lake views are a highlight.
• Adults-Only Waterfront Deck: "The Landing" offers a relaxing spot for adults, especially on Friday/Saturday nights, with live music and beautiful marina views.
• Live Music & Events: CERA regularly hosts a variety of events, including live music, sporting tournaments (like baseball/softball and pickleball), holiday events, and seasonal attractions like "When Darkness Falls" haunted trails.
• Spacious & Shaded Sites: Campsites are generally large, well-maintained, and many are shaded, providing comfort and privacy.
• Youth Programs & Camps: The park offers various programs for children, including swim lessons and youth camping, making it ideal for families.
• Trap & Skeet Ranges: For shooting enthusiasts, CERA provides four trap ranges and one skeet range.
• Good Sam Rated: CERA has received high ratings (10/10/10) from Good Sam for completeness of facilities, cleanliness of restrooms/showers, and visual appeal, indicating a high standard of quality.
• Flexibility for Tent Campers: The allowance of tents on cabin sites (where applicable) provides flexibility for larger families or groups.

CERA Sports Park & Campground, while a comprehensive facility, might offer various forms of value beyond direct discounts. As a member of the Indiana Campground Owners Association and the Good Sam Network, campers who are Good Sam members may find specific benefits or reciprocal discounts.

• Annual Passes and Seasonal Passes: CERA offers "Annual Passes" and "Season Passes" which provide benefits such as no entry fees, full attraction use (for the Annual Pass), and exclusive camping discounts. These are excellent options for locals planning multiple visits throughout the year.
• "Fun Day Bracelet": While an additional cost, the "Fun Day Bracelet" offers unlimited access to several park activities like the aquatic center, mini-golf, and lake access, which can be a cost-effective way to enjoy multiple amenities for a day.
• Event-Specific Offers: For major events like Tough Mudder, participants might find specific registration discounts or package deals that include accommodation.

For the most current information on promotions, membership benefits, or any seasonal specials, it is highly recommended to visit the official CERA Sports Park & Campground website (www.ceraland.org) or call their direct line. They also often share updates on their social media channels regarding upcoming events and any related offers.

For reservations, general inquiries, or to learn more about CERA Sports Park & Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 3989 S 525 E, Columbus, IN 47203, USA

Phone: (812) 377-5849

Mobile Phone: +1 812-377-5849

Email: ceraland@ceraland.org

Website: www.ceraland.org

You can also find booking options and more detailed information through the "Book Now" link on their website.

For Indiana locals, CERA Sports Park & Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for outdoor recreation and family fun. Its sheer size and the vast array of activities available truly set it apart, ensuring that there is something for everyone, regardless of age or interest. As one review noted, "there is a lot to do," meaning families can enjoy extended stays without running out of engaging options.

The accessibility from various parts of Indiana, being located in Columbus, makes it a convenient getaway without requiring extensive travel. For campers, the variety of sites – from full-hookup RV spots to rustic cabins and tent sites – ensures that every preference is accommodated. While the additional fee for swimming for campers might seem "a little odd" to some, the overall value provided by the extensive facilities, including a beautiful lake, multiple sports courts, mini-golf, and even a Go-Kart track, justifies the investment for many. The positive feedback about the "helpful and friendly" staff and "beautiful views" reinforces the welcoming atmosphere that is crucial for a pleasant family experience. Furthermore, the option of annual or seasonal passes makes it particularly attractive for frequent visitors, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy all the park has to offer year-round. CERA Sports Park & Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's an all-encompassing adventure park that provides a fantastic opportunity for Indiana families to connect, play, and create lasting memories right in their home state.