Best Tent Camping near Columbia City, IN
Tent campsites near Columbia City, Indiana include several established options within driving distance. River Camp Fort Wayne, located approximately 20 miles southwest of Columbia City, offers reservable tent sites with drive-in and walk-in access. Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Howe provides more primitive tent camping experiences with multiple access options including boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in sites.
Most tent campgrounds in the Columbia City region offer basic amenities with varying levels of services. Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area includes toilet facilities and permits campfires, making it suitable for campers seeking a more rustic experience without complete isolation. Alcohol is permitted at this location, unlike several other area campgrounds. Many sites lack standard amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, picnic tables, and showers. Campers should plan to bring all necessary water and supplies as most locations do not provide trash collection services.
Areas farther from Columbia City typically offer greater seclusion and natural settings for tent camping. Pigeon River provides opportunities for kayaking through winding rivers and lakes, with shuttle services available for paddling trips. The campground itself receives moderate reviews, with one visitor noting that "the kayaking offers a great time on the water with friends or family" despite not having exceptional views. Circle B RV Park near Angola, though primarily designed for RVs, maintains well-kept grounds approximately 40 miles northeast of Columbia City. Sites throughout the region generally provide access to local outdoor recreation while maintaining a primitive camping experience that tent campers specifically seek.