Hardy Lake Marine

This is one of my favorite campgrounds in Indiana. It’s always quiet, never crowded (I’ve been back in the early, high and late season.) We recently returned from our last trip of the season and, as usual, we were one of the only campers there (one other site was booked in the primitive loop, and far away from us that we couldn’t even hear them.)
Our most recent trip occurred in the off season, so comfort stations in the electric sites were locked, and you had to self-​register using an envelope with cash. The local convenience store was out of firewood, so you have to go to the main office to find any. There isn’t anyone manning the gates in November, so there is no entrance fee to the park. Otherwise, it’s $ 5 for residents, $ 7 for non residents, per car.
In the primitive sites, there are gorgeous spots right up near the lake side. We actually prefer sites 166 – 167, which are great to share with a larger group, and are close to the pit toilets (but not too close ;)) The sites are gravel and are demarcated with railroad ties to keep you in the designated area. Most of the fire rings can be moved, so there’s some flexibility on where you set up your tents/​canopies. This is a plus, as the sites are uneven in a few spots. If you aren’t careful, you could be sleeping at a steep angle.
The trails aren’t a huge attraction at Hardy Lake, for me. I mostly enjoy the quiet seclusion you don’t get when you go to a place with awesome trails like Turkey Run or Clifty Falls. In the primitive sites, there’s a playground and an open field, and just across a short trail behind the primitive sites, you’ll find the full hookup sites, with a bigger playground and electric site comfort stations. During the summer, the water is turned on and these are unlocked, and you can shower and use flush toilets. Lastly, in the summer, there is a Birds of Prey exhibit near the main office. This is usually open from May-​October.
If you’re looking for a spot to fish, or a secluded area to camp without the bells and whistles of more popular campgrounds, you’ll love Hardy Lake.

I love Hardy Lake. We went the past two weekends to fish and swim at the beach. It’s never too crowded and always have a wonderful time. I wish the bathrooms by the beach were a little cleaner, but at least they have bathrooms.