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Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground












Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground Overview
Rating
Phone (260) 782-0430
Address 5124 County Rd 100 S, Lagro, IN 46941, USA
Website https://stateparks.com/salamonie_river_state_forest_in_indiana.html
Hours
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground Location & Map
IndianaWabash CountyLagroCounty Road 100 South
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground
5124 County Rd 100 S
Salamonie River State Forest Horseman's Camp
5124 County Rd 100 S
CoCoJo's RV Campground
4115 S 700 E
Salamonie Lake Modern Campground
9214 Lost Bridge Rd W
Salamonie Lake Horsemen's Campground
Andrews
Apple Orchard Primitive Campground
New Holland Road
Antioch Mobile Home Park
200 Wabash Ave
Hillcrest Mobile Home Park
757 Evans St
Wabash City RV Park
270-298 Smith St
Dry Dock Campground & Storage
5762 S 700 W
- © Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground About
For Indiana locals seeking a genuine escape into nature, where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of daily life, Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground offers an ideal destination. This isn't your average commercial campground with endless amenities and paved roads; it's a rustic retreat designed for those who truly wish to "disconnect to reconnect" with the outdoors and themselves. Nestled within the vast and beautiful Salamonie River State Forest, this campground provides a raw, authentic camping experience without sacrificing essential comforts.
Many Hoosiers cherish the opportunity to immerse themselves in Indiana's natural landscapes, whether it's for a weekend of hiking, a peaceful fishing trip, or simply a quiet moment under the stars. Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground embraces this desire, offering a tranquil setting where the emphasis is on the natural surroundings and the simplicity of outdoor living. Despite its primitive nature, visitors consistently praise its upkeep and the quality of its facilities, making it a highly recommended spot for those who appreciate value and authenticity in their camping adventures.
This article will guide you through what makes Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground a beloved choice for Indiana's outdoor enthusiasts. We'll explore its secluded location, the practical services it provides, its unique highlights, and why it's considered a hidden gem for local users looking for an affordable and peaceful retreat in the heart of Indiana.
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground is situated at 5124 County Rd 100 S, Lagro, IN 46941, USA. This location places it firmly within the Salamonie River State Forest, a sprawling natural area managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Lagro is a small town in Wabash County, Indiana, contributing to the secluded and peaceful atmosphere that defines the campground.
Being part of a state forest, the campground benefits from being surrounded by extensive natural landscapes, including woodlands, ravines, and the Salamonie River itself. This provides a deep sense of immersion in nature, allowing visitors to truly disconnect from urban environments. While it offers this natural seclusion, the campground is still reasonably accessible for Indiana residents. It’s located in a region of the state that is well-connected by rural roads, meaning that while you'll feel far away from the hustle and bustle, it's not overly difficult to reach.
The primary appeal of this location is its integration into the wider Salamonie River State Forest, which encompasses 950 acres of land. This offers campers immediate access to a vast network of outdoor activities without having to travel far from their campsite. For those who appreciate the tranquility of a forest setting and the convenience of being able to step directly into natural trails and waterways, this location is ideal. The drive to the campground itself often signals the beginning of the "disconnect" experience, transitioning visitors from busy roads to quiet, natural surroundings.
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground focuses on providing essential services for a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. As a primitive campground, it prioritizes the natural setting while ensuring visitors have access to necessary facilities.
Primitive Campsites: The family campground offers 21 primitive campsites. These sites are designed for tent camping, and do not include electric or sewer hookups at the individual sites. This caters to campers who prefer a more traditional, back-to-nature experience. Sites are generally spaced "far enough apart for privacy," enhancing the quiet and secluded feel.
First-Come, First-Served Basis: The campsites are available on a "first-come, first-served" basis. This means reservations are not typically taken, allowing for spontaneous trips, though it's wise to plan accordingly, especially during peak seasons.
Well-Maintained Restrooms: Despite being a primitive campground, reviews consistently highlight that the bathrooms are "well maintained" and "decently clean." This is a significant comfort for campers, as access to clean restroom facilities is often a key factor in satisfaction for primitive sites. These usually include pit toilets and drinking water nearby.
Potable Water Access: Drinking water is available at central points within the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water for their needs.
Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table, essential amenities for outdoor cooking and dining.
Direct Access to State Forest Amenities: While not directly within the campground, being part of Salamonie River State Forest provides indirect access to a wider range of facilities offered by the DNR. This includes nearby fishing opportunities at Hominy Ridge Lake (electric trolling motors only) and the Salamonie River, as well as swimming at the beach on Salamonie Lake (located in the nearby State Recreation Area).
These services, though basic, are well-regarded for their upkeep and functionality, supporting a rewarding and peaceful camping trip for those looking to truly immerse themselves in the Indiana wilderness.
Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground shines through its unique blend of natural beauty, affordability, and a commitment to maintaining a serene environment. Here are its key features and highlights:
True Disconnection and Reconnection: This is arguably the top highlight. As one reviewer eloquently puts it, it's "Seriously my fave place to disconnect to reconnect." The primitive nature, combined with the forest setting, actively encourages visitors to unplug from technology and immerse themselves in nature, fostering a profound sense of peace and mental rejuvenation.
Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: The campground is consistently described as "peaceful and quiet." This is a major draw for campers seeking solitude and a break from noise. The individual campsites are spaced "far enough apart for privacy," ensuring that each group can enjoy their own tranquil space without feeling crowded.
Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite being a primitive campground, the "bathrooms are well maintained" and "decently clean." This attention to cleanliness in essential facilities significantly enhances the comfort level for campers, making the rustic experience more enjoyable.
Exceptional Value for Money: Visitors frequently praise the affordability. "For such a low price you reap great rewards!" and "$13 a night is a little steep, but otherwise, it's a great place to camp" (with the "steep" comment perhaps relative to other primitive sites, but still highly competitive for state forest camping) indicates excellent value. This makes quality outdoor experiences accessible to a wider range of Indiana locals.
Abundant Hiking Opportunities: The campground is integrated into the Salamonie River State Forest, which boasts an extensive network of trails. This includes 9 miles of fire trails for hiking and a unique 0.33-mile "Three Falls Trail" leading to waterfalls. These trails offer diverse topography, scenic views, and opportunities for wildlife observation, catering to hikers of all skill levels.
Access to Water Activities (Nearby): While the campground itself is nestled in the forest, its proximity to Hominy Ridge Lake and the Salamonie River provides excellent fishing opportunities. Additionally, swimming is available at the beach on Salamonie Lake in the nearby State Recreation Area. This allows for a mix of forest and water-based recreation.
These features collectively position Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground as a highly desirable destination for those seeking an authentic, peaceful, and affordable natural retreat in Indiana.
As a state forest campground, Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground operates under the pricing and access policies set by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Therefore, specific, limited-time "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically offered. However, its pricing structure and management provide inherent "offers" that make it an attractive option for Indiana locals.
Consistent and Affordable Primitive Rates: The primitive campsites are offered at a consistent, low nightly rate, around $13-$15. This consistent affordability is a significant benefit, as it makes quality camping accessible without fluctuating prices or complex booking systems. The "low price" is frequently highlighted by reviewers as a major advantage, making it a great value proposition.
First-Come, First-Served Access: While this can be a challenge during peak times, it also acts as a "promotion" for spontaneous adventurers. It means campers don't need to book months in advance and can simply arrive and claim an available site, offering flexibility that many private campgrounds do not.
Annual Entrance Permits: For frequent visitors to Indiana State Parks and Forests, the DNR offers Annual Entrance Permits (AEPs). An in-state AEP is $50, and an out-of-state AEP is $70. These permits provide unlimited entry to all Indiana State Parks and State Forest recreation areas for a full year, representing substantial savings for locals who enjoy regular outdoor activities across the state.
Golden Hoosier Permit: For Indiana residents 65 years or older, the Golden Hoosier Permit is available for $25. This provides the same annual entry benefits at a reduced rate, further promoting accessibility for senior citizens to enjoy the state's natural resources.
While you won't find discount codes, the campground's inherent affordability and the DNR's statewide permit system provide excellent value for Indiana residents looking to explore and camp frequently. It's always best to check the official Indiana DNR website for the most current rates and permit information.
For those planning a visit or seeking more specific information about Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground, here is the essential contact information:
Address: 5124 County Rd 100 S, Lagro, IN 46941, USA
Phone: (260) 782-0430
Mobile Phone: +1 260-782-0430
Since the campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, direct calls to the state forest office can be valuable for inquiring about current availability, especially during busy periods or holiday weekends. The staff can also provide details on forest conditions, trail information, or any specific regulations you might need to know for your visit. While reservations are not taken for the primitive family campground, speaking with the local office can offer peace of mind and helpful insights before your trip.
For Indiana locals, Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly rewarding destination for experiencing the state's natural beauty. It caters directly to the desires of Hoosiers seeking an authentic, peaceful, and affordable outdoor retreat, making it a true local gem.
The primary reason for its suitability is its emphasis on providing a genuine "disconnect to reconnect" experience. In an increasingly fast-paced world, the quiet, primitive nature of this campground offers a much-needed respite. Nestled within the vast Salamonie River State Forest, it provides an immersive natural environment where campers can truly unplug. The campsites are strategically spaced "far enough apart for privacy," ensuring a tranquil atmosphere that is hard to find in more commercialized settings. This allows locals to fully immerse themselves in the sounds of nature, whether it's birdsong, rustling leaves, or the gentle flow of the Salamonie River.
Furthermore, the campground offers incredible value. As one reviewer highlighted, "For such a low price you reap great rewards!" The affordable nightly rates make quality camping accessible to a wider range of budgets, allowing more Indiana families and individuals to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. This affordability, combined with the "well maintained" and "decently clean" bathrooms, ensures that while the experience is primitive, it's not lacking in essential comfort and hygiene.
The extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation immediately surrounding the campground are also a major draw. With miles of hiking trails, including unique features like the "Three Falls Trail" leading to waterfalls, there's ample scope for exploration and physical activity. The accessibility to fishing spots in Hominy Ridge Lake and the Salamonie River, along with swimming at the nearby Salamonie Lake beach, means that a variety of natural pursuits are literally on your doorstep. This makes it ideal for locals who appreciate diverse outdoor activities within a single, convenient location.
In essence, Salamonie River State Forest Family Campground embodies the spirit of Indiana's natural heritage. It's a place where you can simplify, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature and loved ones without a hefty price tag or overwhelming crowds. For any Indiana resident looking for a peaceful, rustic, and value-packed camping adventure, this state forest campground is undoubtedly a top recommendation.
Customer Reviews
Seriously my fave place to disconnect to reconnect. The campground is kept up and the bathrooms are well maintained. For such a low price you reap great rewards!
The campgrounds are pretty well kept, the individual campsites are far enough apart for privacy, and the restrooms were decently clean. $13 a night is a little steep, but otherwise, it's a great place to camp
BE CAREFUL!! The park is great. The primitive camping is great. Loved boating! What happened was not the fault of this awesome place or the staff but we want to warn others. While we were gone from our site, someone came into our campsite, stole our air mattress, all of our food and went through our kitchen box, stealing items. They even stole my dirty wet shoes. They trampled the inside of our tent and bedding with muddy boots. We think we ran into the guy and to say we were terrified was an understatement. It was our honeymoon and we had to come home early because we were wiped out and creeped out.
Awesome place to camping nice people and DNR staff are very nice people every time I go here
Never been but it seems nice
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