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 (90)

    1. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

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

    $12 - $80 / 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

    14 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

    $40 / 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 - $89 / night

    10. Hidden Diamonds Park

    2 Reviews
    Albion, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 636-2246

    "Couldn’t believe this location hasn’t gotten more attention. See pics for the many amenities in this park!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 90 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Columbia City, IN

390 Reviews of 90 Columbia City Campgrounds



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 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbia City, IN and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

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 is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Columbia City, IN.