Best Campgrounds near Columbia City, IN

The northeastern Indiana landscape surrounding Columbia City features several lake-based camping destinations within a 30-minute drive. Chain O' Lakes State Park, located 15 miles north in Albion, stands out with its system of nine connected lakes ideal for paddling and fishing. Blue Lake Campground in nearby Churubusco offers both tent and RV accommodations with full hookup options. The region's camping options range from state park facilities with electric and non-electric sites to private campgrounds with cabin rentals and RV parks with full hookups. Most campgrounds in this area feature water access, with fishing opportunities being particularly notable at Chain O' Lakes, which includes a dedicated fish cleaning station.

Reservations are essential during the primary camping season from April through October, with many facilities closing entirely during winter months. Johnny Appleseed Campground in Fort Wayne operates from April 1 to October 31, while Chain O' Lakes remains open year-round with reduced services in winter. Summer weekends typically reach capacity, especially at waterfront sites. As one camper noted, "Chain O' Lakes 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." Most campgrounds charge both a nightly fee and a separate entrance fee, with Chain O' Lakes requiring a $20 day-use fee in addition to camping fees.

Water recreation dominates the camping experience in this region, with multiple lakes offering swimming beaches, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities. Campers consistently highlight the well-maintained facilities at Chain O' Lakes State Park, including clean bathrooms, showers, and a well-stocked camp store. Site privacy varies considerably across campgrounds, with some offering wooded, secluded spots while others feature more open layouts. According to visitor reviews, "If you're traveling with kids or enjoy the community of being near your fellow campers, this is a great option. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat, this may be a bit loud and busy." Wildlife sightings, particularly birds and raccoons, are commonly reported throughout the area's campgrounds, adding to the natural experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Columbia City, Indiana (92)

    1. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Albion, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 636-2654

    $12 - $90 / night

    "Wooded, grassy, all conveniences, friendly, huge playground for kids yet it offers peaceful enjoymentl so what more can you ask for while camping🐟🤩 Close to small town, Albion with a great brew pub,"

    "Met up with 18 other skoolies our first Indiana meet. Met great people had a fantastic time. Great park kids swam, showers are clean. Electric at sites but water isn’t but very close by."

    2. Johnny Appleseed Campground

    15 Reviews
    Fort Wayne, IN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 427-6720

    "Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping. The River Greenway path cuts right through the park, and there is also a boat launch for the river."

    "For $24, we got a day of drive in spot with electrical + water hook-ups and wifi. The campground is well-maintained and very clean."

    3. Blue Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Huntertown, IN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 693-2265

    $45 / night

    "Blue Lake Resort is a hidden gem for campers! The serene atmosphere and beautiful lake views make it a perfect getaway. The amenities are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and accommodating."

    "The lake is clean and has a decent beach. You can rent kayaks for cheap. Has a pretty decent grocery store on site. The bathrooms are huge and clean. Wifi is good at our lot."

    7. Camp Timber Lake

    4 Reviews
    Roanoke, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 672-3251

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Escaped to this little place on the outskirts of Fort Wayne, Indiana and it was absolutely worth it. Everyone was nice including the neighboring campers."

    "Campground is located on private property and all of the primitive spots are right on the lake or very close to it. "

    8. River City Campground

    1 Review
    Pierceton, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 723-4444

    "Staying close, but not too close, to route 30 provides easy access to Fort Wayne without all the road noise. Live music on the weekends adds to the charm of this family campground."

    9. Indian Springs Campground

    9 Reviews
    Garrett, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 357-5572

    $20 - $129 / night

    10. Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake

    11 Reviews
    Huntington, IN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 468-2165

    "It was very relaxing and I also enjoyed walking on different paths to enjoy nature as it was. I would highly recommend this campground to anyone. It is also family friended"

    "Kil-so-qauh, used to be a little hidden gem right outside of town but has turned into quite a popular place, but for good reason."

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Recent Reviews near Columbia City, IN

396 Reviews of 92 Columbia City Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake

    No Lake access from campground

    Forest settings, electricity for only $15/night. Lots of traffic in and out. A lot of older rigs.

  • Matthew H.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Art's Country Park

    Arts country Park

    Quiet,kid friendly, fur babies friendly (dogs),nice place, friendly and accommodating staff, fishing and swimming,hot showers and lots of activities in summer 👍

  • Shawna T.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    chainolakes

    Camp out

    I loved how neighborly and extremely kind our camping neighbors were. Even though we were close in proximity to eachother, everyone remained respectful of the noise and helped eachother as much as we could. Good little camping trip community. Had a great experience

  • L
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Johnny Appleseed Campground

    Great location, but no privacy

    The campground is almost in the middle of Fort Wayne. Most of the sites are very close and no vegetation to allow any privacy. On the positive side, the bathrooms were very nice and clean. The staff was also very helpful.

  • SkipperAllen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Shipshewana Campground South Park

    Nice stay

    Bathrooms clean Campground well maintained. Showers clean. Push button operation not temperature control little on the cold side for me.

  • Sarah and Philip H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Tippecanoe River Run

    Tippecanoe River Run

    Don’t think I’ve ever stayed anywhere so peaceful. Birds chirping, right on a nature spring, everyone is respectful but laid back,. Full hook ups and amazing stay.

  • J
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Mississinewa Lake Campground

    Great for families

    This is a popular spot for locals and I was lucky to get the last electric site with less than a days notice. Every other site seemed to have a large gathering of family or friends. The restrooms/ showers are quite dated and sparse. I only have one bar with Verizon.

  • Ray L.
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Bixler Lake Park & Campground

    Quiet.

    This is by far the place to just relax. It does have its moments..Holidays and special events. Even then campers here live by the lights out code. Been here nearly a month and definitely will be back.


Guide to Columbia City

Camping near Columbia City, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to bustling campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Potato Creek State Park Campground, have miles of trails. One visitor noted, “Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails.”
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground is perfect for water activities. A camper shared, “Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown.”
  • Fishing: Many parks, including Tippecanoe River State Park Campground, provide great fishing spots. One reviewer mentioned, “Fishing was poor according to my husband,” but others still enjoyed the experience.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A visitor at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground warned, “The mosquitoes are prolific and abundant!”
  • Site Variability: Campsite sizes and privacy can vary. A camper at Ouabache State Park Campground said, “The campsites are variable; size and privacy definitely depends on the site you book.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “Verizon signal essentially nonexistent.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake said, “The kids loved the activities and amenities.”
  • Safety First: Choose sites away from busy roads. A family at Johnny Appleseed Campground enjoyed the peaceful setting, stating, “It was nice and quiet even though it’s in the middle of town.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check for nearby markets. A camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s a well-stocked general store with fishing supplies.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pokagon State Park Campground advised, “Some sites can accommodate larger rigs, most can't.”
  • Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground appreciated, “Fresh water fill and dump stations were the best we’ve seen anywhere.”
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Check forecasts before your trip. A camper at Ebys Pines noted, “It was beautiful and very clean, but the grass was a bit long at our site.”

Camping near Columbia City, Indiana, offers a mix of fun, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Columbia City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Columbia City, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 92 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbia City, IN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Columbia City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Columbia City, IN is Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 52 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbia City, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Columbia City, IN.