Backpacking combines hiking and camping, two of the most popular outdoor recreation activities. Indiana has a few scenic trails for backpacking. Other states may have longer and more popular backpacking trails, but Indiana’s trails satisfy many backpackers’ need for adventure and solitude. These trails can be perfect for a beginner’s first trek, as preparation for a longer backpacking trip, or for providing seasoned veterans with a backcountry escape.
Know before you go
Hiking organizations and clubs
- American Discovery Trail
- American Hiking Society
- American Volkssport Association
- Bedford Hiking Club
- Central Indiana Wilderness Club
- Hoosier Chapter Sierra Club
- Hoosier Hikers Council
- Indianapolis Hiking Club
- Knobstone Hiking Trail Association, Inc.
Where to go
Trail listing
Below you will find a listing of trails in Indiana that are at least 10 miles long, have a natural surface, and have a least one camping option along or near the trail. Camping options may include backcountry camping, camping shelters, designated primitive camp sites, or access to a campground. Some of the trails are multi-use so hikers may encounter mountain bikers or horses. All the trails listed below are managed by either Indiana State Parks, Indiana Division of Forestry, or the Hoosier National Forest. Each agencies policies may differ, so be sure to research their rules and regulations before hitting the trail. Also please note that some properties in this listing have a gate and/or camping fees.
Hiking
Backcountry Camping
Horseback
Mountain Biking
Campground
Camping Shelter