Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the busiest of the year, and last weekend was no exception.
But entering the post-holiday weekend, which has traditionally been slower for camping, DNR campgrounds have even more reservations than for Memorial Day weekend. Most camping options at most state park properties are sold out.
“This weekend is a bit unusual,” said Ginger Murphy, deputy director of Indiana State Parks. “More often the first weekend after Memorial Day is a little quieter as people finish school, and have and go to graduation and open houses. But this year is obviously different, and we are off and camping in 2020.”
As far as camping at state parks, online reservations for camping can be made until 2 p.m. the day of camping. Walk-in registration for camping is also allowed on the day of arrival. Right now, O’Bannon Woods State Park is the only park property where there might be electric sites available tomorrow. Campsites for equestrian use are still available at Brown County, Tippecanoe River, and O’Bannon Woods state parks, and at Salamonie Lake and Deam Lake State Recreation Area (SRA).
But other prime DNR campground options remain available, while they last.
First-come, first-served primitive camping sites are available at Greene-Sullivan, Yellowwood and Morgan-Monroe state forests.
First-come, first-served camping is also available at Glendale Fish & Wildlife Area (FWA), as well as at J.E. Roush Lake and Willow Slough FWAs. If considering Glendale FWA, call 812-644-6107 for information on the campground and site availability before heading there. More information on FWA camping is at on.IN.gov/dfwproperties.
All those camping and considering camping are reminded to practice social distancing, and to choose a different weekend to visit if they are not feeling well or have been in contact with someone with COVID-19.
If going to a DNR property for only day use, keep in mind that access is managed based on parking availability to help ensure that guests have a positive experience. A good way to avoid waiting in line or being asked to visit elsewhere nearby instead is to keep up with DNR/State Parks on Twitter and follow DNR/State Parks and property pages on Facebook for near-real-time updates regarding access. In addition, Indiana Dunes State Park is a part of a regional beach parking information line, 219-395-1003, which you can call to hear the status of beaches along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Indiana.
State Park inns have plenty of rooms available in all seven locations and cabins at Brown County, Turkey Run and Pokagon state parks are also available for the weekend. Inn restaurants are open for dining with menu-based meals available. Make reservations at IndianaInns.com or 877-LODGES-1 (877-563-4371).
