Indiana's Gay Campgrounds
Me? A devotee of gay camping? Who could've predicted??
Indeed, your beloved, cocktail-sipping, king-sized-bed-sleeping, beach-sunbathing, disco-dancing persona harbors a fondness for gay camping…
Well, truth be told (if we're being candid), I (Stefan) had never spent a night outdoors in my life until I encountered Seby, who had spent his youth's summers doing just that within the French countryside. I'd sworn to myself I'd never partake. Except, nature-enthralled Scenic Seby had other concepts…
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Admittedly, since we've been together, it has gained my affection. Certainly, it can be rough, dirty, and downright uncomfortable, yet there's no finer experience than snoozing underneath the celestial bodies, reveling in a singsong around a fire, or taking a wander through the wilderness. Besides, it also signifies we can enact our Brokeback Mountain fantasy (minus the heartbreaking end)!
We adore a gay camping weekend. It's a chance to get away and connect with the natural world while at the same moment forming a considerable number of fresh squirrel companions.
Whereas some individuals may not be eager to go all in (and by that, we mean, slumber outside in a tent), most campsites further furnish cabins or bunkhouses to rest in. So, having mentioned all that, here are five of the most exceptional gay campgrounds to explore all over the United States in 2025.
01
Roseland Resort & Campground
Proctor, West Virginia
In a nutshell
- Twenty-two acres of forested hills and meadows with hiking trails
- Camping sites, RV spots, rooms, and cabins are accessible
- Heated swimming pool, hot tubs, steam room, and massage treatments
- On-site restaurant and pizza outlet
Roseland Resort & Campground couldn't be more off the beaten track if it tried. The winding hillside path that leads to the gay camping area can be slightly scary, thus we urge checking out Google Maps and adhering to interstate highways as much as is manageable.
Nevertheless, once we arrived, the exertion to reach here was COMPLETELY worth it! We were overwhelmed by the rugged mountain terrain that encompassed the 222 acres of this gay campsite. It offers a heated swimming pool, several hot tubs, and steam rooms for socializing.
During the day, we roamed the eleven miles of hiking trails that border the site. By night, we either stuffed ourselves in the pizzeria or reveled in a boogie at the bar. They also had campfire gatherings, where we flaunted our (ahem!) vocal talents with a classic sing-along with fellow guests.
The all-male, all-gay camping location is particularly well-liked by the bear community, which is absolutely fitting given West Virginia's state animal is a bear! The campsite holds an Annual Bear Fair, a fantastic celebration of all things massive, gay, and hairy. Other enjoyable annual functions incorporate all-nude New Year's Eve parties. Now that's undoubtedly one way to usher in the fresh year, eh?!
Concerning lodging, guests can select to rest under the stars on the tent sites strewn across the grounds or park their RV. If you'd rather have a bed, there's a range of cabin and room choices for you to select from within converted farm edifices.
Costs at Roseland Resort & Campground begin from twenty-five dollars per night:
Check prices now
02
Sawmill Camping Resort
Dade City, Florida
In a nutshell
- One hundred twenty acres with a poolside bar and a nightclub
- Camping sites, RV spots, and cabins are offered
- Clothing-optional heated pool
- Close to prominent attractions such as Disney World and Universal Studios + LOTS of on-site occasions!
Drive an hour outside of Orlando and you will get to the Sawmill gay Camping Resort. It's a universe apart from Universal Studios and Disney, though a universe absolutely worth exploring!
Whether you're sleeping in the open air at the tent site, renting a cabin or RV, or only visiting for a couple of hours (via a day pass), this LGBTQ campground holds everything you might wish for. From the clothing-optional pool to the acres of land to stroll around, you'll feel immersed in the spirit of natural living.
Country and disco enthusiasts clash, with a choice between a fantastic nightclub (aptly named Woody's!) or a country-style hoedown in the courtyard. The gay campground regularly puts on happenings like drag queen bingo or karaoke nights, which sparks certain rather amusing shenanigans… We've undeniably embarrassed ourselves by taking a stab at the mic, but isn't that the point?
In terms of accommodation, Sawmill owns some pretty appealing cabins, even if they're rustic. You can further opt to dwell in an RV or on the tenting site, depending on how hardcore your fondness for gay camping truly is.
03
Highlands Resort
Guerneville, California
In a nutshell
- Three acres of Redwood groves and spectacular gardens
- Camping sites, rooms, suites, and cabins available
- Glorious swimming pool
- Pet-friendly rooms also available (restricted availability)
Highlands Resort calls itself 'straight-friendly' - precisely like us! They're so gay that they even have their very own coming-out narrative. Having been established since the 1930s, they welcomed guests for approximately fifty years before announcing themselves as a gay campground in the 1980s.
Today, it's run by an awesome team that relishes nothing more than having a ball and spreading affection. This beams through the staff's wonderful, upbeat attitude, who handle everything with a smile.
They own a glorious swimming pool and magnificent gardens to become lost in. They lack much of a party atmosphere, thus it's the impeccable spot if you're seeking a tranquil gay getaway.
The gay campsite itself is filled with quaint cabins, each showcasing a gorgeous vintage design. From chrome and Formica tables to the linoleum floors. A step through your room's doorway is like stepping into a different epoch!
Instead of camping, you can go "glamping", though this is accessible only during the summer months. With this, you'll gain admittance to the heated pool and enjoy a daily, free continental breakfast. The tent sites are spacious, each holding a table, parasol, four chairs, and two loungers.
04
Campit Outdoor Resort
Fennville, Michigan
In a nutshell
- Thirty-three acres filled with walking trails
- Camping sites, trailers, bunkhouses and cabins accessible
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- On-site naughty "toy store"
If you can camp-it, you can adore it!
Campit is wholly about welcoming every individual, regardless of orientation. Situated ten minutes distant from the tourist hotspots of Saugatuck and Douglas, Campit offers a secure haven to holiday for companions and allies of the LGBTQ community.
Across the thirty-three-acre gay-friendly property, you can anticipate finding a vast heated swimming pool, rec hall, game room, and miles of walking trails that immerse you within nature.
There's even a Campit's "Toy Store", though not the kind of toy store you'd assume. Here you can pick up an assortment of leather articles, novelties, and other cheeky accessories you may have failed to pack at your dwelling…
There are numerous lodging options - in case you're a tad allergic to the outdoors. These entail a five-bedroom bunkhouse B&B, twenty-two log cabins, or one of the vintage trailers. There are further outdoor choices, with a number of camping sites scattered over the compound. We've heard the "New Horseshoe" is especially well-liked because it's the biggest tenting area, providing a more private and rustic experience.
Most accommodation choices are also pet-friendly, therefore you can bring your pooch or puss alongside you!
05
Jones Pond Campground & RV Park
Angelica, New York
In a nutshell
- 100 acres with hiking trails
- Camping sites, RV sites, rooms in the guesthouse, bunkhouses, log cabins and pet-friendly cabins available
- Clothing-optional swimming pool
- On-site café/restaurant with yummy food
The name's Pond. Jones Pond!
Located in New York state, it's not quite the gleaming skyscrapers and mesmerizing Broadway performances NY is usually associated with. Far from it!
Jones Pond is an all-male gay campground for twenty-one+, with a clothing-optional policy around the pool area. It conveys a very understated and relaxed atmosphere, valuing calm and serenity above the party-fuelled chaos that you might uncover at other resorts.
There's a two-night minimum stay here with most of the lodging options. You can opt between dwelling on a massive tent site, which has a capacity for up to one hundred seventy-five tents, in rooms inside the guesthouse, bunkhouses, log cabins and pet-friendly cabins. There's also room for RVs or you can lease one if you do not possess your own. Whatever you opt for, you'll fit right into camp life in no time.
The culture around the grounds is laid-back and hospitable. Staff are perpetually available to assist you with anything and are more than pleased to join in the conversation.
The campground's café is incredibly popular, with locals and passing tourists alike stopping by to visit. It's an excellent spot to kick off your day with a cheese omelet, French toast, or pancakes. Later in the day, the café serves up mouth-watering burgers and Philly cheese-steaks. A hint of the authentic gay American dream!
06
The Woods Campground
Lehighton, Pennsylvania
In a nutshell
- One hundred sixty-one private acres with streams and a lake
- Camping sites, RV sites, cabins and tiny houses accessible
- Fully clothing optional + large outdoor pool
- Boisterous weekend-themed parties
Into The Woods we go to live out our gay pubescent Bel Ami-inspired fantasies…
The Woods in Lehighton, Pennsylvania is, in reality, one of the most acclaimed gay campgrounds in the United States. It's exclusively for members only, implying you have to enlist beforehand in order to book your stay… hence you KNOW it's going to be good!
They also have a strict over eighteen policy and embrace an older crowd, allowing for a welcome mix of everyone in our LGBTQ family.
Events are a big deal here. They host colossal party-themed weekends: from "Bears At The Woods", and "Leather Weekend" to one entire weekend simply for drag performances. All parties culminate around their extensive pool area - entirely clothing-optional of course!
The notion behind The Woods Community arose due to the negative consequence social media and gay dating apps were having on social queer establishments like bars/clubs - in that they have been declining in numbers! Here they encourage face-to-face interaction, away from Grindr and Instagram. This feeling of being part of a tight-knit community is what renders The Woods stand out.
It's also absolutely massive! The Woods possesses no less than one hundred sixty-one private acres with streams, a four-acre lake, and an abundance of camping sites - all of it set against the backdrop of the stunning Pocono Mountains. Space is your ally here…'Into The Woods' we joyfully go…
Happy travels are safe travels
We suggest you consistently obtain reputable travel insurance prior to your next vacation. What transpires if you suffer from illness, injury, theft, or a cancellation? Many gay travelers neglect it and regret it when something happens. It's better to pay a small amount and possess peace of mind and not stress.
07
Copper Cactus Ranch Men's Retreat
Queen Valley, Arizona
In a nutshell
- Forty acres of desert perspectives and hiking trails
- Camping sites, RV sites, bunkrooms and private rooms
- Swimming pool, hot tub and spa
- Delicious home-cooked meals
You realize a location is destined to be excellent when it's found in a place called Queen Valley! Copper Cactus Ranch is a male-only (over twenty-one) campground that serves all men - gay, bi, straight, and anything in between.
It's refreshing to see somewhere that aims to promote male bonding and camaraderie above anything else.
Along with the regular RV and tent camping sites, there are stunning ranch house rooms available as well. Selections range from either private rooms for a couple or bunkrooms with numerous queen beds, which are ideal if you're journeying with a company of friends.
Everything is extraordinarily private, thus you're at liberty to go au naturel everywhere - even hiking…we highly endorse trying out nude hiking if you haven't done so already! And with forty acres of trails, the views over the desert are simply breathtaking. Guests who are camping are also allowed to bring their canines on site.
Copper Cactus owns a swimming pool and a gigantic hot tub, which becomes the focal point for all evening socials. Look for owners Rich and Bobby who are talented musicians who often get all the guests involved to live out their Beyoncé fantasy in an evening karaoke session. They also serve up mouthwatering home-cooked meals, and you may even get to learn how to make local dishes like tamales.
08
New Milford, Pennsylvania
In a nutshell
- More than two hundred thirty secluded acres in the Pennsylvania hills
- Camping sites, RV sites and cabins available
- Clothing-optional space with a huge swimming pool, plus onsite cafe and store
- Loads of themed weekend parties throughout the season!
Hillside Campgrounds have been providing a fabulous and enjoyable camping experience for the gay male community for over thirty-seven years - and with no signals of slowing down!
Located in the Endless Mountain region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, this substantial and secluded campsite extends a relaxed, clothing-optional spot to reconnect with nature. One of their major mottos is 'attitude free' and every individual here is unequivocally free to have pleasure without judgment, however they prefer.
This campsite is accessible between May and September annually, with a jam-packed agenda of themed events for those who prefer their camping to arrive with a sizable side of FUN! From Fall-themed Bears in Flannel to hot Latin Carnivale, there's an event for every kind of individual, no matter their predilections. These events invariably feature excellent music, delectable cuisine, and outstanding company, sometimes with fabulous costumes and performances as well.
A genuine highlight is undoubtedly the poolside cocktail party, although any time you desire to visit, you can enjoy yourself beside or in the swimming pool. Naturally, this is camping, thus, if you'd like to spend your time hiking the nature trails and hanging out by a bonfire at night, you do you!
You can opt to stay on a site for your own tent or RV, or reserve a rustic cabin either with or without a private bathroom. Any necessities can be stocked up on at the MaN Store inside the grounds, plus there's Embers Cafe for your food and drink choices if you'd rather not sort that out yourself.
09
River Ridge Campground
Mount Olivet, Kentucky
In a nutshell
- Three hundred fifty feet frontage on the Licking River
- Camping sites, RV sites, bunkrooms, cabins, lodge suites and RV rental available
- Swimming pool and two water 'pods' plus riverfront access
- Fun events throughout the year and kayak/canoe rental available for enjoying on the river
Find out more
Located in the attractive rolling hills of Mount Olivet is River Ridge Campground. This is Kentucky's initial and only all-male, private, membership-based, clothing-optional gay campsite.
All men above the age of twenty-one are welcomed here once you've been accepted as a member! The most appealing part is that the entire campsite is fully clothing-optional…cue those Adam & Steve pics for the 'Gram…
Swimmers, pay attention - there are two freshwater communal tubs along with a brand spanking new swimming pool, and, the Licking River. This is the perfect place for those of us who aspire to engage in a bit of kayaking, canoeing, or even tubing while camping. If you've got your own kayak/canoe, then most certainly bring it with you; otherwise, you can hire them from the River Ridge fellows.
The key phrase here at River Ridge is 'rustic', even if that doesn't imply you're doing without any comfort. For those who do not desire to stay in a tent or RV, there are private suites in the main lodge and compact cabins, some of which accommodate up to four visitors. Pets are permitted for guests not dwelling in the principal lodge building.
Social butterflies will adore all the fun happenings here throughout the year, from big-screen movie nights to karaoke, dancing, contests, and drag queen bingo. Even if you're not staying on-site, you can obtain day passes to attend the events and socialize. For those who simply like to chill with a beer beside the campfire, you will also find your tribe.
10
Creek Ridge Campground
Stockbridge, Michigan
In a nutshell
- Sixty acres of wooded terrain with hiking trails, ponds, and a creek
- Camping sites, RV sites, bunkhouse, and cabins accessible
- Clothing-optional swimming pool
- Club area and exciting events EVERY weekend!
About an hour and a half's drive from Detroit is the ultimate 'get-back-to-nature' spot of Creek Ridge Campground. Situated among sixty acres of woodlands with fairly ponds and a charming creek, this is an outstanding selection if you aim to merge rustic nature with epic parties.
Seriously, the events at Creek Ridge are NEXT LEVEL, with epic themed parties occurring every weekend throughout the camping season (April - October). We're discussing "The Wizarding World of CRC" level events, with screenings of Harry Potter, games of Quidditch, and the most potent wand competition - we'll leave that part to your imagination!!
Owners Ron and Mike endeavor to render Creek Ridge a location 'where companions become family' as guests take pleasure in the simple things in life. There's space for camping or parking your RV, as well as small cabins for two or four individuals. During the day, you can relax in the clothing-optional swimming pool, go hiking or fishing in the woods, or merely unwind by your fire pit.
Club Solitude is where much of the weekend event activities take place, and there aren't numerous campgrounds with an actual nightclub for you to live out your dancing queen fantasies! If you need a place to really unplug and put aside your worries, we presume a weekend at Creek Ridge is just the ticket.
11
Rainbow Ranch
Groesbeck, Texas
In a nutshell
- Nearly 700 acres with hiking trails and a lake
- Camping sites, RV sites, cabins, an apartment and a house available to rent
- Swimming pool and fire pit
- Fabulous events every second weekend
They say everything is larger in Texas…and we can affirm that rule stretches to gay campgrounds.
The Rainbow Ranch is an all-gay campsite - spanning across 700 acres of ground. It's a tad bit secluded, with not a lot surrounding it apart from woodlands, but hey, what else do you anticipate when camping?
There were so many sleeping arrangements to choose from. I possess a lethal fear of creepy crawlies (Seby pokes fun at me for it, until I remind him of his rat-phobia!) so, we gravitate away from the more "primitive" tent sites. But hey, if that's your thing, then go for it. Otherwise, you can reserve yourself into a house, a cabin, or an RV.
For hanging out, you can't surpass the Ranch's swimming pool. It looks out at Lake Limestone and is a superb spot for making friends. Music gets played around the pool to maintain the good spirits. And since the gathering is almost exclusively LGBTQ, you are aware that the playlists are bustling with Britney, Gaga, and Ariana.
Events are held every other weekend, hence if you are yearning for a more tranquil time, check out the weekends that do not have anything scheduled. Otherwise, prepare for pool parties, drag bingo, cookouts, and Mardi Gras celebrations! The fourth of July and New Year's Eve are notably busy times, both with an enormous party and fireworks display.
We stumbled upon a few choices for food in the surrounding area beyond the grounds - we recommend visiting Los Pepes. It's a fantastic spot that serves up Mexican cuisine. You'll need a vehicle, though - as while it's only a fifteen-minute drive, you'll be trekking for hours if you go on foot.
12
Camp Buckwood
Brown County, Indiana
In a nutshell
- Forty-eight+ acres with a lake
- Camping sites, RV sites, cabins, and rooms in the 4 Seasons Lodge available
- Heated swimming pool and huge hot tub
- Grill restaurant and event space
The notion for Buckwood arose from the proprietor's fantasy about an all-gay, all-male camping site. A place where guys could unwind, concealed from the remainder of the world, associate with companions, and potentially discover somebody special.
They possessed an adorable tuck shop that vended everything you could require on a vacation - or, in other words, anything we overlooked packing!
Concerning dining, we couldn't fault their grill van - with a menu filled with burgers, chicken dishes, and veggies.
Guests linger around the swimming pool and hot tub area, capitalizing on the clothing-optional policy. Their hot tub is one of the most enormous we've ever witnessed - and we've observed a lot. There are an abundance of lounge chairs to recline on and absorb the warm sunlight. And if it commences to rain, you can escape to The Pavilion house.
You can opt to slumber beneath the stars on a tent site or go for the RV/cabin option - all contingent upon your budget/dedication to the authentic camping experience. Standard cabins are fairly affordable during weekday nights and off-peak times.
We admired the night-time entertainment, with drag performances one night and a foam party the next. Most events take place in the shack Rusty's - could it possess a more American-sounding name?
And if you're genuinely keen on trying something fresh - you can try your luck at fishing. Lake Shasta doesn't mandate a license to fish in, and it's overflowing with largemouth bass, catfishes, and bluegills. We approached catching a colossal catfish, but it unfortunately wasn't destined to be. Oh well, who desires to be catfished on a gay camping ground in any case?
13
Grizzly Pines
Navasota, Texas
In a nutshell
- Clothing-optional policy
- Camping sites, RV sites, cabins, and lodge rooms available
- Swimming pool and hot tub
- Delicious food at the house restaurant
When Seby went camping as a kid, his mother would habitually caution him to keep a lookout for bears… Luckily, she didn't indicate these types of bears!
Grizzly Pines is a haven for the "large-and-in-charge, chunky-yet-funky", hairy men of the gay community. Naturally, it isn't solely for bears - but most of their visitors tend to be.
It's a clothing-optional resort, though from what we noticed, the majority of individuals tend to retain their kit on, unless they're unwinding by the pool or hot tub areas. However, for obvious reasons, you will require underwear on around food gatherings!
We dined on-site every day at the house restaurant, which whipped up gargantuan portions and left us feeling super full.
Everyone we met there was incredibly sociable, captivated by our narratives and travel experiences, and divulged their own insane shenanigans. And the personnel were just as charming. They were attentive, furnished swift service, and had such a laid-back vibe that they merged with the guests.
For slumbering, you can rough it up Bear Grylls-style by sleeping in a tent (yes, yet another bear joke, we couldn't withstand!). Or you can select a more lavish choice and proceed with a cabin. Most selections are quite affordable - especially if you're visiting with a group, where we'd recommend The Solstice Lodge. It fits four individuals and possesses an abundance of living space.
The owners are fond of organizing events, having hosted pool parties, naked male bonding, and fetish weekends in the past. It assuredly shatters the ice for first-timers uncertain of how to fit in (i.e. us), but we formed sound friendships in no time.
14
The River's Edge
Dewy Rose, Georgia
In a nutshell
- One hundred nine campsites in the Georgian wilderness
- Camping sites, RV sites, and cabins available
- Salt water swimming pool and hot tub
- Games room, snack bar and store on-site
Deep within the Georgian state wilderness, is the fabulous The Rivers Edge. It's an all-gay camping grounds, owned by a gorgeous couple, who do their utmost best to make every individual feel welcome.
There are one hundred nine campsites for those bold enough to brave the outdoors. In each one, you'll have a picnic table, fire pit, and hot shower facilities. Though if you're a bit allergic to the wilderness (a bit like me), there are options for residing in an RV or in a cozy cabin.
The grounds own so many spots for encountering and conversing with fellow guests. Our favored spot was the games room - where we had snooker battles and board game face-offs with individuals.
The hot tub was the busiest spot. After all, who can resist a location where guys disrobe to soak in some warm, foamy water? They further own a heated swimming pool that utilizes saltwater (the more environmentally friendly option). I may have ingested a mouthful when diving in and commenced violently gagging - Seby had to procure me a juice to rinse it out. facepalm
The guests were a blend of young and old; twink and muscly; all harmonizing in perfect harmony. Who knew a cluster of catty gays could become so familial when you deposit them in the woods? Loads of the guys we conversed with had been there multiple times - constantly having a fabulous time and that the staff even recollected them by name. Now that's excellent service.
15
Circle J Guest Ranch
Dallas, Texas
In a nutshell
- 100+ acres of wilderness with springs and a pond
- Camping sites, RV sites, and suites available
- Swimming pool at main house
- Community campfires, hiking, canoeing and horse-riding activities
The Circle J Guest Ranch isn't an exclusively gay camping ground - but a place where all creative-minded, free-spirited, open-minded people can come and discover themselves.
It's a place to get lost (figuratively speaking) along nature trails, absorbing the tranquil wilderness of the East Texan woodlands.
Eat inside the Circle J café - where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are freshly prepared each day. Evening meals were so economical and left us feeling full and satisfied.
The majority of the individuals on this site were the outdoorsy type and content sleeping on the tenting grounds. Nevertheless, if that's excessive, you have options to rest in an RV or a luxury cabin/suite. This was where Seby tried his utmost to persuade me to sleep outside.
"Come on, everybody else is doing it"
"If everyone else is doing it, then that implies there's more space for me in the cabins!"
What can I articulate? He failed to convince me…
The pool is a tad bit smaller than in a few of the other camping grounds on this roster. However, it is every bit as cool, relaxing, and sociable. Guests often partake in a game of volleyball - which sparked our competitive streak. Fortunately, we were compelled to play on the same team, due to if one of us had triumphed over the other, it'd have produced difficulties for certain.
The community spirit extends into the night, with campfire singalongs and storytelling serving as a delightful alternate to camping sites that are more party-focused.
We had our initial experience of horseback riding as well - with fundamental lessons accessible. Trainers can assist you regardless of your absence of experience or acquaintance with horses. Merely don't do it bareback!
Read more travel adventures like this in our book!
We've published our very own gay travel book called, 'Out in the World'. It holds all of our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from a couple of our favorite destinations.
We trust it stimulates you to possess a fun and safe trip!