CERA Sports Park & Campground

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Welcome to CERA Sports Park & Campground, a dynamic and expansive recreational facility located in the heart of Indiana. For Hoosiers seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, active sports, and relaxing natural escapes, CERA stands out as a unique destination. More than just a campground, this extensive park offers a diverse array of activities and amenities designed to cater to all ages and interests, making it a versatile choice for your next local getaway.

Originating from the Cummins Employees Recreation Association (CERA) in 1963, CERA Sports Park & Campground has evolved into a public-access recreational hub. Its transformation reflects a commitment to providing high-quality outdoor and sporting opportunities for the broader Indiana community. This commitment is evident in the variety of features available, from extensive sports fields to aquatic fun and peaceful camping spots.

We understand that Indiana residents value accessible and engaging local options for their leisure time. This article aims to provide a clear, factual, and informative overview of CERA Sports Park & Campground, detailing its location, the services it offers, and its many highlights. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a youth sports tournament, or a serene camping trip by the lake, CERA offers a compelling proposition for your recreational needs right here in your home state.

While individual experiences can vary, and some past reviews mention specific areas for potential improvement, the overall sentiment highlights CERA's significant appeal as a comprehensive recreational facility. Many guests praise the diverse activities and the opportunity for family fun. By providing a detailed look at what CERA Sports Park & Campground has to offer, we hope to equip you with the information needed to plan a memorable and enjoyable visit to this Indiana gem.

CERA Sports Park & Campground is strategically located at 3989 S 525 E, Columbus, IN 47203, USA. This address places the park within easy reach for a significant portion of Indiana's population, particularly those residing in the central and southern regions of the state. Columbus, a city renowned for its modern architecture and design, serves as a welcoming gateway to this expansive recreational facility.

The accessibility of CERA Sports Park & Campground is a key advantage for Indiana locals. The park is conveniently situated near major transportation arteries, including Interstate 65, which provides a direct north-south corridor through Indiana. This means that visitors from Indianapolis, Louisville (KY), and other major metropolitan areas can reach the campground with relative ease and efficiency. The well-maintained road network leading to the park ensures a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers.

For those traveling within Bartholomew County or from neighboring counties, the drive to CERA is short and straightforward. The clear signage and well-established routes make navigating to the park simple, reducing travel stress and maximizing the time available for enjoyment. This ease of access encourages both day-trippers and overnight campers to consider CERA for their recreational needs without the burden of extensive travel.

Furthermore, the location in Columbus offers the added benefit of urban amenities within a short drive. While CERA itself provides a wide array of activities and a sense of being "away from it all," guests can easily access local dining, shopping, grocery stores, and medical facilities should the need arise. This blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience enhances the overall visitor experience, providing the best of both worlds for Indiana residents looking for a local escape. The beautiful views and a great lake mentioned in reviews contribute to the serene atmosphere, even with the extensive sports facilities nearby.

Services Offered:

• Various camping options: 326 campsites including full-service (water, 30 & 50 amp electric, sewer hookups), water/electric only, and primitive tent sites.
• Six camping cabins available for rent, providing an alternative to tent or RV camping.
• Three clean and well-maintained shower houses and restrooms throughout the park.
• Centrally located dump station (free for campers, fee for non-overnight use).
• On-site general store for essential camping supplies, snacks, and beverages.
• Restaurant and bar, "The Landing," offering food, drinks, and live music on select evenings.
• Friendly and helpful staff available to assist guests (with some noted exceptions regarding specific staff interactions).
• Security and park rules enforced for a safe and orderly environment.
• Daily and annual passes available for access to park attractions.
• Wi-Fi access in designated areas.

Features / Highlights:

• Expansive 345-acre sports park and campground with diverse recreational offerings.
• Extensive sports facilities: Baseball/softball complex, 18 pickleball courts, basketball courts, disc golf course, tennis courts, sand volleyball, cricket/soccer fields, horseshoe pits, rifle/archery ranges, trap & skeet ranges.
• Aquatic Center with various pools and water features for family fun.
• 18-hole miniature golf course.
• Whittington Go-Kart Track for an exciting experience.
• Driving Range for golf enthusiasts.
• Lake Lucille, an 11-acre stocked lake for fishing (swimming not permitted).
• Planned activities and special events, including holiday celebrations and live music at The Landing.
• Playgrounds for children.
• RV friendly sites, including big-rig friendly options with spacious, level camping.
• Well-maintained grounds and beautiful views, as noted by visitors.
• Offers a comprehensive experience with activities for all ages and interests.

Contact Information:

Address: 3989 S 525 E, Columbus, IN 47203, USA

Phone: (812) 377-5849

Mobile Phone: +1 812-377-5849

CERA Sports Park & Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Indiana locals, offering a multifaceted recreational experience that caters to a wide range of interests and needs. Its convenient location, diverse amenities, and commitment to providing a full spectrum of activities make it an attractive option for families, sports enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a natural escape without having to travel far from home.

For Indiana families, CERA presents an all-in-one solution for entertainment and relaxation. The sheer volume of activities, from the Aquatic Center and mini-golf to various sports fields and Lake Lucille for fishing, means that children and adults alike will find plenty to keep them engaged. While some reviewers noted that certain activities might incur additional costs (e.g., wristbands for pool/gym/mini-golf), the value of having so many options within one park is significant for planning a varied and exciting stay. The positive comments about the "pool area was good" and "Campgrounds looked good" underscore the appeal of the main facilities.

The accessibility of CERA, being located in Columbus and easily reachable from major Indiana highways, is a major benefit for local residents. This convenience allows for quick weekend trips or extended vacations without the added burden of long-distance travel, making it a practical and economical choice for many Hoosiers. The presence of ample RV sites, including full hookups, and cabins also provides flexible lodging solutions for different camping preferences.

While some past reviews have pointed out specific areas for improvement, such as the condition of baseball fields or the cleanliness of portalets during high-use periods, these specific observations should be weighed against the broader range of positive feedback. Many visitors consistently praise the "beautiful views and a Great Lake," and highlight that "most of the staff... was very helpful and friendly," and the "Restaurant was great!" This indicates a strong overall positive experience for many guests. The emphasis on well-maintained campgrounds, despite desires for more tree coverage, suggests a generally high standard of upkeep in the primary camping areas.

In conclusion, CERA Sports Park & Campground offers Indiana residents a unique opportunity to combine outdoor recreation, active sports, and family fun in a single, accessible location. Its comprehensive facilities, diverse activity options, and convenient setting make it an ideal choice for creating lasting memories right here in the heart of the Hoosier State. For locals seeking a dynamic and versatile recreational hub, CERA Sports Park & Campground remains a compelling and suitable option for their next adventure.

CERA Sports Park & Campground

3989 S 525 E, Columbus, IN 47203, USA