RV sites near Bristol, Indiana provide camping options within Indiana's northern border region, where elevation ranges between 790-850 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and snowy winters, making spring through fall the primary camping season. Proximity to Amish country creates unique cultural opportunities for campers within easy driving distance of several lake recreation areas.
What to do
Explore Amish country: Located just minutes from Elkhart RV Resort, where visitors can experience authentic cultural interactions. "About 10 minutes drive to Shipshewana with very kind Amish community folks," notes Lisa D. This cultural immersion provides educational opportunities beyond typical camping recreation.
Visit RV manufacturers: The region serves as the birthplace of most recreational vehicles in America. "This clean, well kept campground is really close to grand design. We stayed here to go tour the manufacturers process," explains Robert P. about his stay at Elkhart RV Resort.
Enjoy water recreation: Many campgrounds feature lake access or swimming facilities. At Twin Mills Camping Resort, "There are cabins and tent sites and a large lake access point with a beach area," according to Laura H. This provides options for fishing, swimming, and water sports during summer months.
What campers like
Security features: Campers appreciate controlled access at many facilities. "The park has a gate entrance for security," mentions Laura H. about Twin Mills Camping Resort. Similarly, at Bear Cave RV Campground, "There is a gate that campers need a code to get into so it keeps out unwanteds," notes Gay G.
River access: Water features rank highly in reviews. "Bear Cave is a nice campground. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan. There is also a waterfall right next to the cave," writes Jerry S. These natural features provide scenic camping backdrops.
Recreation buildings: Indoor options for rainy days receive positive mentions. "There is a large pool area and basketball court," says Laura H. about Twin Mills, while Gay G. mentions Bear Cave has a "game room" among its amenities, providing weather alternatives.
What you should know
Wi-Fi availability varies significantly: Most campgrounds offer internet access, but quality and cost differ. At Bear Cave, "Internet is through a paid campground service and was $5/day but was actually very good. Not too sure how service would be during peak season," reports Barbara P. Plan accordingly if you need reliable connectivity.
Site layout considerations: At Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park, "The Park offers mainly alternating pull-through sites which means you will be facing your neighbor's door not their street side of the camper. This makes for great buddy sites," explains Andrew M. This arrangement works well for group camping but may feel less private for solo travelers.
Off-season limitations: Many facilities reduce services outside peak months. "We stopped for one night a week prior to their closing for the season... No amenities were available," notes Barbara P. about Twin Mills. Confirm available services when booking during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds offer varying recreation options. At Maple Ridge Campground, "Owner operator campground where the family knows how to cater to the kids. Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears," writes Tony G.
Swimming options: Pool quality and access vary between campgrounds. "The pool is well kept," reports Dusti H. about Elkhart Co Middlebury KOA, providing summer cooling options. However, not all pools are equal as one visitor to Bear Cave noted its "pool needs repaired."
Playground accessibility: Consider site proximity to play areas. "Nice area to bike around as well," mentions Lisa D. about Shipshewana Campground South, while Kelly L. says of Twin Mills, "really fun for families, nice pool and bathrooms, putt putt, bring your bikes."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies across campgrounds. At Elkhart Campground, one camper noted, "Site needed leveling, had no shade at all and was close to major hwy." Bring appropriate leveling equipment regardless of campground claims.
Site spacing considerations: RVers frequently comment on proximity to neighbors. "We had a nice spot not too close to anyone. There are other areas of the park where the sites are really close together," explains Jacqueline F. about Elkhart Campground, highlighting the importance of specific site requests.
Early arrival fees: Some campgrounds charge for arriving before official check-in. Gary B. experienced "a $15 (plus tax) charge for 45 minutes early check-in" at Shipshewana Campground South, noting "Given the park was 2/3 empty that seemed unnecessary." Factor these potential costs into travel planning.
