Tent camping near Andrews, Indiana centers mainly around small, primitive camping areas within an hour's drive. The region features gentle terrain with elevations generally below 800 feet and experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Most camping options operate on a self-sufficient model with minimal amenities, requiring campers to prepare for backcountry-style conditions even at established sites.
What to do
Paddle access camping: Clovis Creek stands out as one of the few locations in the region offering boat-in access for tent campers. The 20 designated tent sites can be reached by water, creating options for paddlers looking to camp directly from kayaks or canoes.
Nature hiking: The surrounding area features several hiking opportunities within a reasonable drive of most tent camping locations. Trails range from easy walking paths to more moderate terrain, with most suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers seeking day excursions from camp.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting around Andrews provides relatively dark skies compared to more populated areas. Most camping locations offer unobstructed views for basic astronomy activities, particularly during new moon phases and clear conditions.
What campers like
Fire rings and site layout: The campground layout at River Camp Fort Wayne receives positive attention despite minimal amenities. The site arrangements offer practical spacing that balances privacy with accessibility.
Natural surfaces: Many campers appreciate that most tent sites in the region maintain natural ground surfaces rather than gravel or platforms. This allows for easier tent staking and more comfortable sleeping when using appropriate padding.
Pet accommodation: Several locations permit pets with standard leash restrictions. Campers traveling with dogs particularly note the pet-friendly policies that allow responsible owners to include their animals in camping trips.
What you should know
Bring all water needs: None of the camping areas near Andrews provide drinking water. Campers must transport all water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning from outside sources. A minimum of one gallon per person per day is recommended based on weather conditions.
Waste management requirements: With no trash removal services at Harper Lake Campground or other nearby sites, all visitors must adhere to strict pack-in, pack-out protocols. This includes food packaging, personal items, and all other waste generated during stays.
Limited cell coverage: Most camping areas experience spotty cellular reception. Signal strength varies by carrier and exact location, with higher elevations generally offering more reliable connections than low-lying areas near water features.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Families camping in the Andrews region should pack for temperature variations even during summer months. Nights can cool significantly compared to daytime highs, requiring appropriate clothing layers and sleeping gear rated for temperatures 10-15 degrees below forecast lows.
Wildlife awareness: While the area doesn't host large predators, families should maintain basic wildlife precautions including proper food storage to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums, and other small mammals common to Indiana woodlands.
Campfire alternatives: During seasonal fire restrictions or at locations prohibiting open flames, families should plan alternative evening activities and cooking methods. Battery-powered lanterns, card games, and propane cooking equipment serve as practical substitutions when campfires aren't permitted.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only considerations: Most established camping locations near Andrews specifically accommodate tent camping without RV hookups or facilities. This creates a more traditional camping environment but requires tent campers to be entirely self-sufficient with power needs.
Parking limitations: Access roads to many tent camping areas have width and clearance restrictions that limit vehicle size. Standard passenger vehicles generally navigate these roads without difficulty, but larger vehicles may encounter challenges on unpaved sections, particularly after rain events.
