Camping options near Angola, Indiana include both established campgrounds and dispersed sites within the surrounding lakes region. Angola sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation in the northeast corner of Indiana with over 100 lakes within a 10-mile radius. The area experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures averaging in the 80s Fahrenheit and cold winters with significant snowfall potential, making seasonal considerations important for campers.
What to Do
Water activities on Hogback Lake: At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday, campers can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing directly from the campground. "They have docks, pontoon rentals and an inflatable water obstacle course," notes a reviewer, with another mentioning "direct lake access" for various water sports.
Wildlife viewing at preserves: Within a short drive, campers can visit Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve to observe native buffalo. A visitor to Cade Lake County Park & Campground mentioned, "This place is a nice cozy campground with a large frisbee golf course, a fishing and kayak lake, and a nice store."
Biking on regional trails: The area offers extensive biking opportunities on dedicated trails. A visitor to Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park wrote, "Nice area to bike around as well," while another mentioned "two days of riding on the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail" during their stay.
What Campers Like
Family-friendly recreational facilities: Many campgrounds provide dedicated play areas and recreational amenities. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ at Barton Lake shared, "You might just step out of your camper and look straight at your neighbors... 5 pools! water slides cost extra. Food prices are reasonable."
Spacious, private sites: Campers appreciate well-designed sites with adequate space. A visitor to Pokagon State Park Campground noted, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc." This layout provides a balance of community and privacy.
Clean, modern facilities: Most campgrounds maintain high-quality facilities. A reviewer at Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite mentioned, "For more, you can get electric hookup sites galore that all include a fire ring picnic table and a pretty leveled out spot."
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Glamping close to Angola, Indiana can require advance planning during peak season. A Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park visitor advised, "Need to plan about 6 months to a 1 year ahead to get in," while another noted, "If you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand."
Weather considerations: The area experiences all four seasons distinctly. A Pokagon State Park visitor in early spring reported, "Visited April 4, more people than I thought, but found a spot to be by myself," suggesting that shoulder seasons offer a different experience than peak summer months.
Site characteristics: Some campgrounds have varying site quality and placement. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA, a camper observed, "Our patio site though had the pit far out from site and we loved it, the grill even had propane in it to use!" However, another cautioned about some sites where "a fire pit that would sit directly under an awning."
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning for different ages: When glamping close to Angola with children, choose campgrounds with age-appropriate activities. A Jellystone Park camper shared, "Love the water park was a huge hit to the kids... Love they have a smaller water park for the smaller kids too!"
Off-site exploration options: Many families combine camping with educational experiences. A Harrison Lake State Park visitor mentioned, "We rented a yurt as a local weekend escape. Our kids loved the yurt... we did not use it, but there is a dog beach as well."
Weather backup plans: Have indoor options ready during inclement weather. An Angola/Hogback Lake KOA camper noted, "We got rained out for most of the weekend but will be back during the summer," suggesting the need for alternate activities during unpredictable weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size compatibility: Check site specifications before booking. A camper at Pokagon State Park warned, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," while another mentioned the park is "good for a short weekend" due to limited hookups.
Utility considerations: Water and electrical connections vary between campgrounds. At Bixler Lake Park, a reviewer found "very nice and friendly atmosphere and very quiet place to relax and enjoy a long weekend" but noted limited full-hookup options.
Seasonal access restrictions: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Most facilities in the region are open from April through October, with a camper at Chain O'Lakes noting "the cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks" for tent sites, while "electric hookup sites galore" are available at higher rates throughout the open season.
