Best campsites around central Indiana for stargazing
Even on the campground, we still have to have our coffee. | Photo by INDYtoday team
Whether you’re looking for a great spot to view the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024 or you’re just trying to see some stars, sometimes it’s best to venture out and get away from the city lights.
We’re sharing some of the best campsites around central Indiana (in the direct path of the total solar eclipse) to get a good view of the sky. Keep in mind, if you’re looking specifically for the solar eclipse, some campsites may be booked.
Palafox Paradise, Indianapolis | RVs, tent | $150 per night
This two-acre property offers plentiful space for you to set up camp. It features a cozy fire pit and beautiful pergola, hammocks, and a patio table by the driveway. Plus, you’ll meet some friendly animals, see a growing garden, and have play areas for your enjoyment.
H.E.R. Living Campus, Beech Grove | Lodging, tents | $35 per night
The tent camping area is nestled and surrounded by young and mature trees, offering a sense of privacy. There is also a community fire pit for cooking, a large bonfire pit nearby, and showers. Fun fact: H.E.R. stands for Honor, Educate, and Restore.
There’s nothing like a sunset view in nature.
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Photo by INDYtoday team
Thirsty Acres, Shelbyville | RVs, tents | $200 per night
This picturesque 24-acre retreat is nestled along the banks of the Big Blue River with wooded surroundings, a tiki bar and grilling pavilion, plenty of seating and space for outdoor dining, access to water activities, and special activities for the solar eclipse.
Mud Creek Campgrounds, Noblesville | RVs, tents | $40 per night
This campground located 1.8 miles east of Ruoff Music Center offers woods, water flowing through the creek, the sounds of nature, and privacy. Bonus: There is a porta potty on the property.
The Rusted Plow, Carthage | RVs, tents | $50 per night
The property is located off a winding tree-lined road between Knightstown and Carthage with several options for you to tent camp or park large RVs. The 10 acres include a pasture of wildflowers, chickens, and several varieties of trees. Plus, the surrounding 100 acres are available for kayaking, hiking, bird watching, swimming, and relaxing.
Looking for more campsites in the path of the solar eclipse? Check out this map.
Events
Tuesday, March 26
xZOOberance Spring Festival | Tuesday, March 26-Thursday, April 11 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis | Zoo admission | Check out this annual spring festival at the zoo featuring 16 days of spring-centric activities.
Wednesday, March 27
Family Game Club | Wednesday, March 27 | 4:30-5:45 p.m. | Indianapolis Public Library, 5420 E. 38th St., Indianapolis | Free | Enjoy playing a board game or a video game with family and friends — all games are provided.
Thursday, March 28
Pride Skate | Thursday, March 28 | 6-9 p.m. | Fun Factory, 175 Southern Plaza Dr., Indianapolis | Donation | Get your roll on at this event celebrating love, diversity, and all things LGBTQ+ on wheels.
Friday, March 29
Indiana Pacers vs. Los Angeles Lakers | Friday, March 29 | 7 p.m. | Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 S. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis | $102+ | The Pacers fell to the Lakers by five points on Sunday — can they come back and beat them at home?
Saturday, March 30
Indy Winter Farmers Market | Saturday, March 30-Saturday, April 27 | 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | The AMP at 16 Tech, 1220 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis | Free | Shop from 60+ vendors, including local farmers, food producers, and artisans.
Sunday, March 31
The Indy Reads Book Club | Sunday, March 31 | Times vary | Indy Reads, 1066 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis | Free | Pick up a book at Indy Reads for 15% off and then join on the last Sunday of each month to discuss it.
Demolition is underway at the old Pan Am Plaza to make way for the new 38-story, 800-room convention center hotel and ballroom — which will be the fourth tallest building in the state when completed. South Georgia Street will be temporarily closed around 11 a.m. every day as the next section of the building comes down. (WISH)
Sports
The Colts franchise has been granted marketing rights for Germany and Austria as part of the NFL’s effort to grow in international markets. It’s the first international expansion for Indianapolis since the league began its Global Markets Program in 2022. (IBJ)
Pets
IndyHumane is hosting a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party with music, food + drinks, and vendor booths so you can watch the upcoming solar spectacle with your furry friends. It will take place from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 8 at 7929 N. Michigan Rd. in IndyHumane’s outdoor space and dog park. Get tickets.
Community
Indy Pride is looking for submissions from bands, singers, drag performers, dancers, variety acts, and more to perform during the Indy Pride Festival on Saturday, June 8 at Military Park at White River State Park. The submission form is due by Sunday, March 31.
Eat
Indy Monthly is bringing back its luxury dining experience “Savor Indianapolis” April 16-19 at the Ritz Charles in Carmel. It features one-night-only custom multi-course menus developed by chef duos paired from different local restaurants to benefit local causes each night. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
Cause
Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis are hosting its annual Adult Recessfundraiser on Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m. at the Lilly Boys & Girls Club (801 S. State Ave.) to provide summer camp membership assistance for future Club members. There will be games, wine and canvas or karaoke, a selection of bites, and tunes by a local DJ. Get tickets.
Sports
The Indiana Pacers defense shined in a win vs. Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors before dipping in a loss against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. What led to the change? Locked On host Tony East breaks it all down.
Plan Ahead
Psst — Taxes are almost due. Use E-file for quick, online filing. Plus, file your federal taxes for free with their basic software plan.*
Drink
🍸 Sip to the solar eclipse
Solar eclipse-themed cocktails to try in Indy
Which eclipse-themed drink are you most excited to try? | Photo by St. Elmo Steak House via Visit Indy
Cheers to the solar eclipse in Indy.
Ten local bars and restaurants are celebrating the once-in-a-lifetime event with a special cocktail that blends exotic ingredients and mesmerizing colors, giving you the chance to toast to the eclipse in style.
Ash & Elm Cider Co. | Solar Obscura: The Obscura blackberry cider wih pandan leaf simple syrup and black pepper coconut cream whip.
There’s so much happening for the total solar eclipse in Indy that it’s hard to decide which event to attend on Monday, April 8. Right now for me, it’s between the Indy Humane event or viewing the eclipse at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
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