Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market

For Hoosiers looking for a unique blend of outdoor adventure, community spirit, and a treasure hunt, Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market in Friendship, Indiana, offers an experience unlike any other. This destination seamlessly combines the rustic charm of traditional camping with the lively atmosphere of a bustling flea market, creating a vibrant hub that attracts visitors from across the state and beyond. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Hudsons Old Mill, detailing its location, services, distinct features, and why it has become a cherished spot for generations of Indiana residents.

Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a dynamic destination that caters to a diverse range of interests. At its heart, it's a campground that welcomes campers looking for a serene outdoor escape. However, what truly sets it apart is its dual identity as a significant flea market venue. This combination creates a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature alongside the excitement of Browse unique crafts, antiques, and various goods. The campground holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly those who frequent the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA) shoot events, as it serves as a long-standing base for attendees and vendors alike. Generations have made memories here, highlighting its enduring appeal and sense of tradition. While some aspects like waste management and restroom availability are areas that new ownership is actively working to optimize, the overall dedication of the management to improving the experience is clearly noted by loyal patrons. The positive aspects, including the vibrant community, the engaging flea market, and the overall spirit of the place, consistently outweigh any minor operational adjustments. It provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a traditional camping experience while also being part of a larger, active community event. Whether you’re a seasoned camper, a flea market enthusiast, or someone just looking for a unique weekend getaway in Indiana, Hudsons Old Mill offers a blend of activities and atmosphere that truly stands out. It’s a place where old friends gather, new connections are made, and countless stories are shared, all within the scenic backdrop of rural Indiana.

Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market is conveniently located at 7249 1st St, Friendship, IN 47021, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of rural Southeastern Indiana, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of more urban areas. Friendship, while a small community, is well-known for its role in hosting large outdoor events, particularly the NMLRA national championships, which draws significant crowds and activity to the area.

Accessibility to Hudsons Old Mill is generally straightforward, with well-traveled state roads leading into the Friendship area. For those traveling from major Indiana cities like Indianapolis, Cincinnati (Ohio), or Louisville (Kentucky), the drive is manageable, making it a viable destination for weekend trips or longer stays. While the immediate surroundings are rural, the established nature of the NMLRA events means the local infrastructure is accustomed to handling visitor traffic during peak times. This ensures that visitors can find their way to the campground and flea market with relative ease. The charm of the location lies in its ability to transport visitors to a simpler, more connected outdoor experience, away from the typical commercial sprawl, yet still within reach of essential services in nearby larger towns if needed. The quaintness of Friendship itself adds to the overall appeal, providing a genuine small-town Indiana experience for all who visit.

Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market provides a range of services designed to accommodate both campers and flea market vendors and visitors, ensuring a functional and enjoyable experience for all who frequent this unique destination.

• Campsites (RV and Tent): The campground offers various sites suitable for both recreational vehicles (RVs) and traditional tent camping. While specific hookup details for RVs are not always extensively advertised, the campground is known to accommodate a packed house, suggesting a good number of available spots.

• Flea Market Vendor Spaces: A core service is the provision of vendor spaces for the flea market, allowing individuals and businesses to set up booths to sell a wide array of goods, from tie-dyes and leather goods to handmade jewelry and typical flea market items.

• Restroom Facilities (Bath House and Port-a-Pots): The campground provides access to a main bath house with facilities for campers. Additionally, port-a-pots are strategically placed throughout the campground for convenience, though their maintenance schedule is an area the new owners are reportedly improving.

• Trash Receptacles: Designated areas for trash disposal are available to help maintain the cleanliness of the grounds, with management actively working to ensure timely emptying during busy periods.

• Food Vendors/Trailers: During flea market and event days, the area hosts various food trailers, offering convenient dining options for visitors and campers alike.

• General Campground Management: The new owners are actively managing the campground, addressing operational kinks, and striving to improve the overall guest experience, indicating a commitment to the site's future.

Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market boasts several distinctive features and highlights that set it apart and contribute to its unique appeal, especially for those familiar with or interested in the NMLRA events.

• Unique Campground-Flea Market Combination: The most significant highlight is its dual identity as both a functional campground and a lively flea market venue. This creates a vibrant atmosphere and provides multiple activities in one location.

• Proximity to NMLRA Shoot Events: The campground is a long-standing and beloved hub for attendees and vendors of the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association (NMLRA) shoot events. This connection creates a unique, community-rich atmosphere during these times.

• Diverse Vendor Offerings: The flea market features a wide array of typical items, alongside unique handmade crafts like tie-dyes, leather goods, and Native American jewelry, offering a distinct shopping experience.

• Long-Standing History and Tradition: With visitors having attended for 30+ years and through multiple owners, the campground carries a rich history and tradition, fostering a strong sense of community and loyalty among its patrons.

• Clean Flea Market Area: Customer reviews specifically note that the flea market area is kept clean, enhancing the Browse and shopping experience.

• Community Atmosphere: Especially during large events, the campground fosters a strong sense of community, with visitors returning year after year to connect with "favorite people" and enjoy shared experiences.

• Scenic Rural Setting: Located in Friendship, Indiana, the campground offers a peaceful rural backdrop, providing a natural escape while still being a hub of activity during market days.

While Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market is a unique destination, specific, publicly advertised "promotions" in the traditional sense might vary. Given its nature as a long-standing venue for events like the NMLRA shoot and a regular flea market, its value often lies in its consistent availability, community appeal, and affordable access.

However, visitors and vendors should always consider the following for potential special offers or benefits:

• Event-Specific Rates: During major events like the NMLRA shoot, it's possible that multi-day camping packages or vendor rates might be offered. It is advisable to inquire about any special pricing associated with these larger gatherings.

• Early Bird Reservations: For popular events, booking campsites or vendor spaces well in advance might secure preferred spots or, on rare occasions, slightly better rates, though this is primarily for securing availability.

• Vendor Loyalty Programs: Frequent vendors at the flea market might inquire if there are any loyalty incentives or discounts for recurring bookings of spaces.

• Off-Peak Season Camping: If the campground operates outside of major event periods, there might be reduced rates for camping during less busy times of the year, offering a more serene experience at a potentially lower cost.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any specific pricing, promotions, or booking details, it is highly recommended to contact Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market directly using the provided phone numbers.

To inquire about camping reservations, flea market vendor opportunities, or general information regarding Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market, please use the following contact details:

Address: 7249 1st St, Friendship, IN 47021, USA

Phone: (812) 667-5322

Mobile Phone: +1 812-667-5322

It is always advisable to call ahead, especially if you are planning to visit during major event periods like the NMLRA shoot, as the campground can get very busy and packed. Speaking directly with the owners or management will provide the most current information regarding availability, rates, and any specific needs you may have for your visit or vendor setup.

For Hoosiers seeking a truly unique and engaging outdoor experience right here in Indiana, Hudsons Old Mill Campground and Flea Market in Friendship offers an exceptional blend of recreation and community. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors that resonate with the spirit of Indiana living.

Firstly, its established presence and long-standing tradition make it a familiar and cherished destination for many families and groups who have been returning for decades. This creates a powerful sense of community and belonging, where generations have forged memories and reconnected with friends. For those who enjoy the camaraderie of fellow campers and the unique atmosphere of a well-loved local spot, Hudsons Old Mill delivers.

Secondly, the dual nature of the campground and flea market provides diverse entertainment and activity options. Locals can enjoy a traditional camping experience, whether in an RV or a tent, while also having immediate access to a bustling flea market filled with unique finds, handmade goods, and delicious food trailers. This means there's always something interesting to do, whether you're camping for relaxation or actively participating in the market's vibrant energy. The direct connection to events like the NMLRA shoot further solidifies its status as a significant local and regional hub for specific interests.

Finally, its accessible location in Friendship, Indiana, ensures that it’s within a manageable driving distance for many across the state, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer stays without extensive travel. Despite any minor operational adjustments as noted by long-term patrons, the dedication of the new ownership to improving the visitor experience reinforces its commitment to being a cherished local resource. Hudsons Old Mill offers more than just a place to stay; it offers an authentic Indiana experience, rich in tradition, community, and discovery, making it an ideal choice for your next local adventure.