Deam Lake Family Campground

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Southern Indiana, Deam Lake Family Campground offers a quintessential outdoor escape for residents across the state. Part of the larger Deam Lake State Recreation Area, this campground is a beloved destination, renowned for its serene natural beauty and extensive recreational opportunities. Established in 1965 and named in honor of Charles C. Deam, Indiana's first state forester, the area encompasses 1,300 acres centered around the beautiful 194-acre Deam Lake. It operates under a "multiple-use concept," meaning it provides a wide array of activities designed to appeal to diverse interests, from peaceful relaxation to adventurous exploration.

Deam Lake Family Campground isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a vibrant hub where families, friends, and solo adventurers can create lasting memories amidst Indiana’s natural splendor. Whether you’re looking to unwind by a campfire, explore miles of trails, or enjoy water-based activities, this campground delivers. Its reputation for cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and a friendly atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for Hoosiers eager to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature. The thoughtful layout and commitment to providing a rich outdoor experience contribute to its appeal as a premier camping destination in the region. Visitors often praise the sense of peace and the sheer variety of ways to engage with the environment, ensuring there's something for everyone at Deam Lake. The dedication to preserving the natural beauty while offering modern conveniences is a hallmark of this exceptional Indiana campground.

Deam Lake Family Campground is conveniently situated in Borden, IN 47106, USA. This prime Southern Indiana location makes it highly accessible for residents coming from various parts of the state, as well as nearby areas. The campground is part of the Deam Lake State Recreation Area, which is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate to, even for those unfamiliar with the specific locale. Its position allows for a feeling of genuine escape into nature without being overly remote, ensuring campers can easily access necessary supplies or explore nearby towns should the need arise.

For those traveling with RVs or trailers, the roads leading to Deam Lake are generally well-maintained, facilitating a smooth journey. The entrance to the recreation area is clearly identifiable, and within the park, signage guides visitors to the family campground. The ease of access contributes significantly to the stress-free experience of planning and embarking on a camping trip to Deam Lake. Furthermore, its location places it within reasonable driving distance of other popular Southern Indiana attractions and even Louisville, Kentucky, offering opportunities for day trips to complement your camping adventure. This blend of natural seclusion and convenient access to amenities and other points of interest makes Deam Lake Family Campground an ideal choice for both short and extended stays.

• Electric Campsites: The family campground features 113 electric campsites, providing convenient hookups for RVs, trailers, and tents requiring power. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Equestrian Electric Campsites: For horse enthusiasts, there are 63 electric campsites equipped with a hitching post, and an additional 36 electric campsites that come with a horse stall, offering direct access to the extensive trail system.
• Rent-a-Camp Cabins: Deam Lake offers 19 rent-a-camp cabins available seasonally (April - October), including three in the equestrian campground. These cabins provide a rustic yet comfortable experience, featuring two small rooms with ceiling fans, heating/cooling units, electrical outlets, a small table with bench seats, a corner shelf, and sleeping arrangements (no linens or mattresses provided). Note: No pets, smoking, or cooking permitted inside cabins.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained modern restroom and shower facilities are available within the campground, with at least one shower station wheelchair accessible.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous picnic areas are scattered throughout Deam Lake State Recreation Area, along with five picnic shelters. The Buzzard Roost Shelter and Apple Orchard Shelter are available for online reservations.
• Drinking Water/Fill Station: Convenient access to drinking water and a fill station for RVs is provided within the area.
• Dump Station: A camper dump station is available for RVs, ensuring proper waste disposal.
• Boat Launch Ramp: A boat launching ramp provides easy access to the 194-acre Deam Lake, which allows electric trolling motors only.
• Rowboat and Kayak Rentals: Rentals for rowboats and kayaks are available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach is open from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with restrooms, dressing facilities, and showers. A wheelchair ramp allows access to the beach area.
• Food Concessions: Food concessions are available to visitors on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the beach season.
• Forest Education Center: Managed by a seasonal naturalist, the Forest Education Center offers displays and hands-on activities for all ages, along with programs and events.
• Playgrounds: Two playgrounds are available within the recreation area for children.

• 194-Acre Deam Lake: The centerpiece of the recreation area, offering prime opportunities for fishing, electric motor boating, kayaking, and swimming at the designated beach. It's a man-made lake constructed in 1965.
• Extensive Trail System: Deam Lake boasts four primary hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties, including access to the 80-mile Knobstone Trail, Indiana's longest hiking trail. There are also designated trails for horseback riding and mountain biking.
• Unique Equestrian Campground: A standout feature, providing dedicated campsites with hitching posts and horse stalls, along with direct access to a vast network of bridle trails within the park and adjacent Clark State Forest.
• Seasonal Rent-a-Camp Cabins: Offering a comfortable alternative to traditional tent camping, these cabins provide basic amenities for a more relaxed outdoor experience, complete with heating/cooling units and electrical outlets.
• Forest Education Center: A valuable resource for visitors, offering interpretive displays and naturalist-led programs that provide insights into the local ecosystem and history, enriching the outdoor learning experience.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds, a swimming beach, and various recreational programs, Deam Lake is designed to provide engaging activities for families and children of all ages.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, visitors can enjoy picnicking, hunting in designated areas (with a valid license), bird watching, and wildlife viewing throughout the 1,300-acre property.
• Accessibility Features: The presence of wheelchair-accessible shower stations and a beach ramp demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, allowing more visitors to enjoy the facilities.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: The recreation area is characterized by its scenic beauty, including wooded areas, a tranquil lake, and opportunities for stargazing, making it an ideal setting for nature lovers.

While Deam Lake Family Campground, being part of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) State Parks system, may not regularly advertise individual "promotions" in the same way a private business might, there are standard pricing structures and benefits that campers can consider. The camping fees for Deam Lake are publicly available and offer clear value for the extensive amenities and activities provided. For instance, family campsites with electric hookups typically have a set nightly rate, and equestrian sites with electric hookups and stalls have a slightly higher rate.

It is important for prospective campers to be aware that campsite and cabin reservations can be made up to six months in advance via the official Indiana DNR website (Camp.IN.gov) or by calling 1-866-6CAMPIN (1-866-622-6746). This advance booking system helps secure desired dates, especially during peak seasons like summer weekends and holidays, ensuring a spot for your getaway. While direct discounts or special offers beyond the standard rate for Indiana residents (if applicable, as some state parks offer this) are not commonly advertised, checking the Indiana DNR website or subscribing to their newsletters might provide information on any seasonal events or reduced amenity periods during the off-season (e.g., November to March, when some water and modern restroom facilities might be winterized, resulting in lower rates). Always consult the official Indiana DNR website for the most current pricing and reservation policies.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Deam Lake State Recreation Area and its campground facilities, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1217 Deam Lake Rd, Borden, IN 47106, USA

Phone: (812) 246-5421

Reservations for campsites, cabins, and shelters can be made online at

Camp.IN.gov

The property office at Deam Lake SRA is typically open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., with extended hours (7 days a week, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For specific questions about programs or events, you can also contact the Naturalist via email at deamlakesra@dnr.IN.gov.

Deam Lake Family Campground is an ideal destination for Indiana locals seeking an accessible, diverse, and enriching outdoor experience. Its strategic location in Borden means that residents from various parts of the state can enjoy a relatively short and convenient drive to their nature retreat, making it perfect for quick weekend escapes or longer family vacations without extensive travel. The value of having such a comprehensive recreational area within easy reach cannot be overstated for Hoosiers looking to maximize their leisure time.

The sheer variety of camping options, from electric sites for RVs to rustic cabins and dedicated equestrian sites, caters to virtually every type of camper. This ensures that whether you prefer the comforts of home on wheels, the simplicity of tent camping, or a unique experience with your horse, Deam Lake has a spot tailored to your needs. This inclusivity makes it a versatile choice for families, couples, and individual adventurers alike.

Beyond just camping, the abundance of activities available at Deam Lake State Recreation Area sets it apart. The 194-acre lake offers opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, and swimming, providing a refreshing escape during warmer months. The extensive network of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, including access to the renowned Knobstone Trail, invites active exploration and caters to different fitness levels. The presence of a Forest Education Center further enhances the experience, offering educational programs that connect visitors with Indiana's natural heritage.

For families, the playgrounds and various recreational programs create an engaging environment where children can thrive outdoors. The well-maintained facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, add to the comfort and convenience, making the camping experience enjoyable for all ages. In essence, Deam Lake Family Campground provides a comprehensive and high-quality outdoor experience right in Indiana's backyard, fostering a deeper connection with nature and creating cherished memories for local residents. It's truly a gem for Hoosiers seeking to embrace the beauty and tranquility of their home state.