7 Best Campsites at Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area

Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area in Rockville, Indiana, offers one of the most scenic camping experiences in the Midwest.

Spanning over 2,000 acres of water and surrounded by lush forests, it’s a playground for boaters, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Picking the right campsite can make or break a trip, influencing how close you are to:

  • Trails
  • Water
  • Amenities

If you want a nearby day hike between campfire sessions, check out our guide to Shades State Park for rugged ravine trails and Sugar Creek paddling.

With a mix of lakefront spots, shaded retreats, and family-friendly areas, Raccoon Lake State Park offers something for every camping style.

Let us take a look at the best spots you can find at Raccoon Lake State Park.

Site Location Best For Potential Drawbacks
Site 140 White Tail Loop Campers who enjoy scenery, light social interaction, and easy trail access Occasional trail foot traffic passing nearby
Site 130 Far end of White Tail Loop Solo campers or families seeking peace and shade Distant from restrooms and central amenities
Site 93 Lakeview Loop (Non-electric area) Campers who enjoy non-electric, simple, and quiet experiences Limited lake visibility due to tree coverage
Site 102 Non-electric shoreline area Outdoor purists and water activity enthusiasts Minimal amenities, requires preparation
Site 136 Central campground area Families and first-time campers valuing comfort Moderate privacy due to central location
Site 145 White Tail Loop Small groups or families wanting space and comfort Slight incline may require RV leveling gear
Site 8 Songbird Loop Families and accessibility-focused campers Limited privacy due to proximity to amenities

1. Site 140

Located in White Tail Loop, Site 140 at Raccoon Lake State Park offers a peaceful and visually pleasant camping environment.

The site provides a partial yet rewarding view of the lake, which glimmers through the trees during sunrise and sunset.

Direct access to nearby trails adds to its practicality, making it ideal for hikers and nature observers who enjoy spontaneous walks without having to drive elsewhere.

The proximity to the water lets you hear gentle waves lapping the shore, creating a soothing background for evenings by the fire.

Foot traffic can occasionally pass through as other campers use the trail, but the sense of community and casual interaction can make the stay more engaging.

Those who prefer both scenery and social presence often find Site 140 to be the perfect balance between relaxation and accessibility.

 

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Here are some reasons many campers prefer Site 140:

  • Partial but scenic view of the lake
  • Direct access to walking trails
  • Moderate foot traffic adds a social element
  • Suitable for campers who enjoy both privacy and interaction

2. Site 130

An RV parked at campsite #130 in Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, surrounded by trees with a picnic table nearby and a view of the calm lake through the forest
Campsite #130 at Raccoon Lake offers direct lake access, shaded surroundings, and proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots — making it one of the park’s most popular RV sites

Situated at the far end of White Tail Loop, Site 130 provides one of the most secluded spots in Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area.

The canopy overhead gives a generous amount of shade, offering a cool retreat during summer months. Those seeking to disconnect and enjoy quiet evenings away from busier areas will appreciate its positioning.

The open space makes setup for tents and small RVs simple, with plenty of room for picnic arrangements or a hammock setup.

Its distance from restrooms and playgrounds is often seen as a benefit for travelers looking for undisturbed rest.

Morning fog rolling off the lake and the distant sounds of birds enhance the sense of peace.

Families who value privacy or solo campers searching for reflection time often praise this site for its tranquility.

Key features to consider before booking Site 130 include:

  • Excellent privacy and seclusion
  • Dense tree cover for natural shade
  • Level terrain suitable for tents or small RVs
  • Distance from central amenities ensures peace and quiet

3. Site 93

A tent set up at campsite #93 in the Lakeview area of Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, overlooking calm water at sunrise surrounded by trees and soft morning light
Lakeview campsite #93 is one of Raccoon Lake’s most scenic tent-only lakefront sites, offering unobstructed sunrise views and peaceful seclusion along the shoreline

Located within the non-electric Lakeview area, Site 93 remains one of the most favored spots for campers who love simplicity and stillness.

It has a generous space for tent setups or compact campers, and the surrounding trees offer protection against strong sun and light rain.

The trail leading toward the lake is easily accessible, inviting guests to spend mornings or afternoons walking along the water’s edge.

Though tree coverage occasionally limits visibility, small openings in the canopy reveal glimmers of Raccoon Lake State’s calm surface.

The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the absence of electrical noise, encourages campers to unwind and enjoy a more traditional outdoor experience.

Campers frequently note the following aspects about Site 93:

  • Located in the Lakeview Loop non-electric area
  • Partial but pleasant lake view through trees
  • Convenient access to hiking trails
  • Shaded and quiet surroundings are perfect for rest

4. Site 102

A lakeside campsite at Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area with a wooden picnic table shaded by trees overlooking calm blue water and a distant wooded shoreline
Site #102 at Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area is one of the premium waterfront sites, offering direct access to the lake and plenty of natural shade for a peaceful stay

Among non-electric campsites, Site 102 is often praised for its unmatched closeness to Raccoon Lake State’s shoreline.

The location lets visitors step directly into the water, which makes it an excellent choice for canoeists and kayakers who prefer quick access.

Without modern utilities, the site captures the essence of primitive camping, appealing to outdoor purists who value self-sufficiency and minimalism.

Campers often mention the serenity that comes with being slightly off the main loops, where quiet evenings are filled with natural sounds and moonlit reflections on the lake’s surface.

Preparation is important here, as amenities are minimal, but the reward is complete immersion in nature.

Before reserving Site 102, take note of its main qualities:

  • Direct access to Raccoon Lake State’s shoreline
  • Ideal for canoe and kayak enthusiasts
  • Best suited for tents and primitive setups
  • Peaceful location perfect for solitude and reflection

5. Site 136

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Site 136 serves as one of the more convenient camping options for visitors who value comfort and accessibility.

Located close to campground roads, restrooms, and water hookups, it’s ideal for small RVs or campers.

The paved and level pad minimizes setup time and helps travelers focus more on leisure.

Its central position allows easy access to all major facilities, which makes it especially suitable for families with children or those who prefer short walks to amenities.

Although privacy is moderate, the easy access to facilities balances that out, making it a top pick among first-time visitors.

Families often mention how straightforward it is to set up here, allowing for more time to enjoy Raccoon Lake State’s outdoor offerings.

Essential details that make Site 136 stand out include:

  • Flat and paved pad ideal for RVs and campers
  • Located near restrooms, water, and electricity
  • Quick and simple setup for families
  • Great for those prioritizing convenience over isolation

6. Site 145

A forest campsite at Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area with a blue and gray tent, campfire ring, wooden benches, and picnic table surrounded by tall trees and morning light filtering through the woods
White Tail Loop’s Site #145 is known for its privacy and shade, making it a favorite for tent campers who enjoy a quiet, wooded experience away from the main campground bustle

Found in the White Tail Loop, Site 145 is appreciated for its combination of space and moderate privacy.

The layout provides enough room for multiple tents or a small RV setup, making it suitable for small gatherings or family camping trips.

The shade offered by surrounding trees keeps the site cool during hot afternoons, while its slight incline may require leveling gear for RV users.

Even with a bit of elevation, campers often enjoy the sense of openness and airflow.

In the evenings, breezes move through the trees, creating a soothing environment perfect for campfire gatherings or quiet reading time.

Details worth knowing before choosing Site 145:

  • Large and semi-private with spacious setup options
  • Shaded environment for comfort
  • Gentle incline requires leveling gear for RVs
  • Suitable for small families or camping groups

7. Site 8 (Songbird Loop)

A small vintage camper trailer parked at campsite #8 on Songbird Loop at Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, surrounded by tall green trees with a picnic table and rustic log seats nearby
Songbird Loop’s Site #8 is known for its deep forest canopy and bird activity, offering one of the most private and shaded camping spots in the park — ideal for nature lovers and early risers who enjoy morning bird calls

Site 8, located in Songbird Loop, is a great option for visitors prioritizing comfort, accessibility, and proximity to essential facilities.

Its flat surface makes setup easy, allowing campers to focus on relaxation instead of adjusting equipment.

Bathrooms and water sources are just a short walk away, making it particularly appealing for families and visitors with mobility needs.

Though not the most private, it compensates with convenience and practical comfort.

Campers seeking a stress-free, family-oriented experience often return to this site on future visits.

Important characteristics that make Site 8 popular include:

  • Level ground is ideal for quick setup
  • Close proximity to restrooms and water
  • Perfect for families and accessibility needs
  • Peaceful mornings filled with birdsong

Final Thoughts

Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area offers a broad range of campsites to suit every preference, from lakeside relaxation to forest solitude.

Visitors can choose sites that cater to adventure, convenience, or peaceful retreat.

It doesn’t matter your setup, tent, camper, or RV, the park provides an experience that perfectly balances outdoor recreation and natural serenity.