Camping options near Andrews, Indiana range from secluded forest sites to lakeside facilities with varying amenities. The region experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Water levels at reservoirs like Salamonie Lake can change by up to 15 feet between seasons, affecting campsite availability and water access points.
What to do
Hiking trails: Salamonie River State Forest offers multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty," notes one regular visitor.
Fishing: Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake provides fishing access with regular eagle sightings. "Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles. Nice place, there is gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though," mentions a camper who frequents the area.
Paddling: Several lakes offer kayak and canoe opportunities with rentals available at certain locations. "They have a awesome Mariana ppl are friendly clean showers bathrooms access to lake," reports a visitor to Lost Bridge West.
What campers like
Privacy in primitive areas: Salamonie River State Forest gets high marks for seclusion. "Cheap, $13 self pay. No electric or showers but do have bathroom. Very secluded luv it here," writes one reviewer who appreciates the quieter camping experience.
Lakefront sites: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area offers premium water view sites. "Sites 228& 232 have sites with good access to the lake. Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service," notes a camper who documented the best locations.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "They also have the nicest pit toilets I've ever seen ANYWHERE! They didn't even smell," reported a surprised visitor about the Lost Bridge facilities.
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Electric sites at popular locations fill quickly during peak season. At Mississinewa Lake Campground, "There are some spots with full hookups. Most are electric only. There are also quite a few spots that are full though so for bigger rigs that is really nice."
Bathhouse locations: Facility distribution varies between campgrounds. "Some spots are far away from the shower houses but you can drive to them," notes a reviewer at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area.
Seasonal changes: Winter camping offers different experiences. At Mississinewa, one camper observed, "Winter camping so no showers/bathrooms. Great area, lots of wildlife. They have wifi (by the water tower) nice lake, some trails."
Noise factors: Be prepared for sounds from neighboring recreation. "There is a shooting range across the lake so there is gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though," mentions a Kil-So-Quah visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Camp Timber Lake offers unique recreation options. "We loved the fact that fur babies are allowed in. However, they are not allowed in the water or near the beach. Next time we will have to try the zip-lines!"
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying amenities. "The beach was clean and fun. Not very busy when we were there, which was nice," reported a camper at Lost Bridge West.
Budget-friendly options: State forests offer affordable alternatives to more developed campgrounds. At Salamonie River State Forest, "Small campground. $13. No reservations, but sites seem readily available, even on weekends in the summer. Spacious sites."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Wabash City RV Park provides basic amenities at a budget price. "I give this three stars not because there's nothing really wrong about it. It's just a grassy parking lot with utilities and a corner grassy knoll with shade. $16/night with electric and water it's worth at least three stars."
Adaptors needed: Electrical pedestals vary between campgrounds. "Our electrical pedestal had no 30amp receptacle. If you have a 30amp plug, bring a 50amp adapter. There are two 20amp outlets available," advises a camper at Wabash City RV Park.
Dump station timing: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. "Double dump station. Stay away from campsites 101& 102- these are right by the dump station," warns a visitor about locations to avoid at Lost Bridge West.
Guide
