Camping options within 30 miles of Bluffton, Indiana range from electric RV sites to primitive tent areas. The region sits at approximately 830 feet elevation in the eastern Indiana flatlands, where seasonal flooding can affect campground conditions during spring. Water recreation dominates the camping scene, with several reservoir and lake options where summer water temperatures typically reach 75-80°F.
What to do
Kayak connected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers unique paddling through its system of interconnected waterways. "Chain is perfect for kayaking and canoeing with 9 connected lakes and 11 total. A couple lakes are perfect for boat fishing as long as you have an electric motor only," notes one visitor. Located 30 miles northeast of Bluffton, the park maintains rental boats for those without their own equipment.
Climb a restored fire tower: At Ouabache State Park Campground, visitors can experience elevated views from the park's restored fire tower. "The bison enclosure is always fun to check out, and the last time we stayed I actually walked to the top of the restored fire tower to take in the view," shares a camper. This vantage point provides a rare elevated perspective in the otherwise flat Indiana terrain.
Winter camping options: Several parks in the area accommodate cold-weather camping. "Love this place for winter camping. The campground comfort stations are heated all winter long," mentions a camper at Ouabache State Park. Winter camping provides solitude and different wildlife viewing opportunities when seasonal crowds have departed.
What campers like
Heated facilities in cold months: Year-round camping is available at several parks with winter-appropriate facilities. At Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake, campers appreciate the seasonal adaptations. "Regular campground with pit toilets. Electric and primitive sites available. Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles," shares a visitor who gave the campground five stars.
Budget-friendly camping: For campers seeking affordable options, Kilsoquah Camp offers low-cost sites. "It's super cheap, the sites are well taken care of, plenty of play spots for kids, electric and primitive, the sites come with picnic tables and fire rings with cooktops," explains one reviewer. Sites typically range from $12-20 per night depending on hookups.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Birdwatching is particularly productive in the area's campgrounds. "The park has great trails for hiking and biking. The bison exhibit and ranger programs are great too," mentions a visitor at Ouabache State Park, highlighting the diverse wildlife experiences available beyond just birds.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Bring filtration for drinking water at some campgrounds. "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter! But we did enjoy our weekend here," advises a camper at Ouabache State Park. This issue appears more common during high water periods or after heavy rains.
Flooding risks: Campsite selection should consider elevation, especially in spring. "We have stayed at this park several times. The camp sites are mostly spaced out for room, but some can get very wet and flooded during a nice rain," reports a visitor.
Noise considerations: Johnny Appleseed Campground offers urban camping with corresponding urban sounds. "This is a small campground in the middle of the city. It's directly across the road from the Saint Joe River, very near a dam. You can hear the alarms when the dam is opened or closed," notes one camper. The campground never gets fully dark due to city lighting.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Wildwood Outdoor Escape, families can enjoy "a basketball net, volleyball court, small playground and fishing ponds," according to a reviewer. The campground also offers a small swimming pool, though with restrictions: "We found out the hard way toddlers who are not potty trained are not allowed in the pool even with swimmy diapers on."
Kid-friendly wildlife viewing: Ouabache State Park's bison exhibit appeals to children. "The kids loved the Bison. 200 ft fire tower you can climb. Beach is nice," reports a family camper. The predictable wildlife sightings make this park particularly suitable for young children.
Bathroom quality assessment: Facility cleanliness varies widely between parks. Johnny Appleseed Campground receives praise for "the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky. Why you take a shower and while you go to the bathroom is well. It's a beautiful bathroom very well kept."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup availability: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area offers various electrical options. "Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service. Fill up on water at the water filling station before going to your site," advises one RVer. The campground does not have water hookups at individual sites despite having electrical connections.
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary significantly in quality and views. "Sites 221- 243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access," clarifies a reviewer at Lost Bridge West. Many sites have significant slopes that can complicate leveling larger rigs.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: KOA Campground Bluffton has a mix of travelers and long-term residents. "Lots of residents here for work. Quiet," notes one camper, which can affect the atmosphere for overnight guests. The campground maintains "laundry facilities on site and surprisingly good WiFi and were even in the back!"
