Heltonville is an unincorporated community, located about 58 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana and about 18 miles southeast of Bloomington, Indiana. The population of Heltonville in 2024 is approximately 1,541 people.
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of southern Indiana by camping in or near Heltonville, an area rich with natural landscapes and outdoor adventures.
The Hardin Ridge Recreation Area offers a splendid mix of recreational activities with its access to Lake Monroe’s expansive waters. Here, both RV and tent campers find their haven amidst lush forests and clear waters, perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing.
For a more secluded experience, venture into the heart of the Charles C. Deam Wilderness to the Blackwell Horsecamp. This unique site caters primarily to campers and their horses, providing a rare opportunity to explore miles of picturesque trails directly from primitive campsites. Without the hum of electricity, the wilderness’s authentic sounds and sights come alive, offering a profound connection to nature.
Whether you seek the comfort of a well-equipped campsite at Hardin Ridge or the rustic charm of camping with your equine companion, the area around Heltonville is a vibrant outdoor community, inviting adventurers to explore its diverse and captivating landscapes.
CLICK HERE for the location of Heltonville
or CLICK the map image below.
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CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area and campground photos.
PLEASE NOTE: The listings below were accurate from an earlier time, but likely do not reflect all the amenities offered at this campground. Many campground facilities add or remove campsites and amenities over time. We strongly recommend you visit the USDA website at the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area for all information, complete details and much more.
| RV Camping |
 x72 Electric Sitesx14 Electric and Water Sitesx30 & 50 Amp Servicex71 Non-Electric SitesxDump StationxCampground Hosts |
| Tent Camping |
| x36 Primitive SitesxxTent Pads |
| Other |
| xAmphitheaterxxBeach BathhousexBoat Launch RampxxFire RingsxGrillsxxHiking TrailsxOpen Play FieldsxxPets WelcomexPicnic AreasxxPicnic Shelters*xPicnic TablesxxPit ToiletsxRestrooms and ShowersxSwimming BeachxMountain Bike Trail |
| Rentals |
| xCabins |
| Things To Do |
| xBeach SwimmingxxBicyclingxBoatingxxCanoeingxChildren’s PlaygroundsxxFishing**xHikingxxKayakingxMountain BikingxPicnickingxVarious Water Activities |
| Special Info |
| * – Some picnic shelters can be reserved, and others are on a first come basis. Call 1-877-444-6777 for more information or CLICK HERE to make online reservations. |
| ** – Fishing – Requires State License. |
 of the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. |
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WATCH VIDEO of the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area. |
The Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is located within a section of the Hoosier National Forest. Much of the area is located on or near the shores of Monroe Reservoir, and is managed by the CFAIA, better known as the Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association.
CLICK HERE to make reservations for the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area.
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CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of the Blackwell Horsecamp and campground photos.
CLICK WEATHER IMAGE for Extended 7-day
Weather Forecast In Heltonville. 
Nearby Eats & Other Fixins’
| The Cabin Restaurant & Lounge |
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| Grecco’s Pizza | |
| Salt Creek Brewery | |
| Scenic View Restaurant | |
Nearby Attractions
| AMC CLASSIC Bloomington 11 |
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| Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve |
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| Starlite Drive-In Theatre | |
| The Cedars Preserve | |
Also, we list 4 additional campgrounds within a 15-mile radius of Heltonville. All mileage numbers shown below are approximate.
The campgrounds are as follows:
Free Spirit Campground
– 4 miles
Bedford, Indiana
Charles C. Deam Wilderness**
– 11 miles
Bloomington, Indiana
**This wilderness area is preserved for those looking to escape from the modern world and it’s offerings. It is strictly primitive in nature and relished by those who enjoy tent camping and seclusion. All wheeled transportation is prohibited in this area, including bicycles.
Jellystone Park at Lake Monroe
– 14 miles
Bloomington, Indiana
Paynetown Campground – Monroe Lake
– 15 miles
Bloomington, Indiana