Campers visiting Crown Point, Indiana can experience a mix of woodland and lakeside camping opportunities within a one-hour drive radius. The area features several freshwater lakes with elevations averaging 700 feet above sea level, creating moderate humidity levels during summer camping season. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making most non-glamping facilities seasonal operations from April through October.
What to do
Water activities at Dunewood Campground: Located in Indiana Dunes National Park, the nearby Lake Michigan shoreline provides swimming access during summer months. "The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," notes Katie O., highlighting natural elements to prepare for.
Hiking the dune trails: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers multiple trail difficulties through sand dunes and wooded areas. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," explains Greg S., describing the tactile experience.
Mountain biking adventures: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides extensive trail systems for cyclists. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," writes Tim K., emphasizing the extensive riding options.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, with Tippecanoe River State Park featuring river fishing. "I've not camped here, just gone for hikes but the hikes are okay. They aren't really anything special and aren't really well marked either. There is a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short," says Kaley A.
What campers like
Site privacy and layout: Many campers appreciate the strategic positioning at certain campgrounds. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. Lots of nature, chill vibe," reports Veronica S. about Dunewood Campground, noting both the generous spacing and amenity quality.
Modern bathroom facilities: Michigan City Campground receives consistent praise for clean facilities. "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter. We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull thought with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite," shares Craig C.
Security features: Gated entries and attentive staff provide peace of mind at some locations. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," notes Shane M. about Michigan City Campground, highlighting the controlled access system.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Crown Point, Indiana, Oak Lake RV Resort offers circular canvas structures with solid flooring. "Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom," shares Preston H.
What you should know
Train noise challenges: Several campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. Great shading from trees and very green!" mentions Truly W. about Dunewood Campground, balancing the noise issue with positive facility comments.
Seasonal campground limitations: Most non-glamping campgrounds operate from April through October. Tippecanoe River State Park Campground is open year-round but with weather considerations. "Worst place for mosquitoes," cautions Rob H., indicating summer pest issues to prepare for.
Site variations and selection: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "The best sites are site 1- right on the main drag, but the most private site in the place. If you enjoy watching the rigs come in & leave, this is your site! Vegetation separates you from site 2. Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground," advises Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe River State Park.
Variable cell service: Coverage differs by location and carrier. "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service," reports Monica C. from Tippecanoe River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites with direct access to play areas. "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground& you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site & you can watch your children from your site," recommends Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe River State Park.
Swimming options: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers controlled swimming environments. "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," shares Layla P., noting the affordable water recreation.
Educational experiences: Several parks offer ranger programs. "We camped here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods). Highly recommend," writes Dane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Water access differs significantly between campgrounds. "We paid more than I wanted but they've got a sweet deal with their proximity to the solidly booked national park. We arrived on July 5th, and the pool had just been shocked (good) so we couldn't use it (bad), can't speak to that," notes Grant M. about Michigan City Campground.
Premium site benefits: Oak Lake RV Resort provides exceptional service for larger rigs. "We came for a weekend... Stayed nearly 2 weeks! From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless," shares Nadiehsda B., highlighting the exceptional RV accommodations.
Water tank management: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground requires planning for water needs. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," explains Greg S., offering practical water management advice.
