Camping options near De Motte, Indiana range from small family campgrounds to larger state park facilities within driving distance. The region features generally flat terrain with sandy soil in some areas, particularly near water features. Seasonal variations affect campsite availability, with most campgrounds operating from April through October, though some like Love's RV Stop remain open year-round.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: At Oak Lake RV Resort, campers enjoy the swimming lake with an obstacle course. "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories," reports one visitor who extended their stay through Labor Day weekend.
Hiking trails: Nearby Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers multiple trails accessible from the campground. "There's some trails that can be accessed from the campground- Trails 1,3,4&5," notes a camper. Another visitor mentions, "There is a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide fishing access. Pioneer Family Campground has a pond for fishing, and one visitor to Last Resort Campground mentioned they "had a great site that allowed us to fish and be right across the street from the site!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers prioritize well-maintained bathrooms. At Pioneer Family Campground, one reviewer noted, "Bathrooms are clean but small." Another camper at Oak Lake RV Resort mentioned, "Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom."
Spacious sites: Site size varies significantly between campgrounds. Pioneer Family Campground receives praise for its "large sites" with one camper noting, "One if the largest tent sites I've been on." Another mentioned, "Beautiful, tranquil, serene" with "large sites, tents, RVs, groups, Pavilion available for rent."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Last Resort Campground stands out for its activities. "They had laser tag, candy parade, crafts etc..." reported one visitor. Another mentioned, "One highlight, especially for kids is the Saturday night golf cart parade. After dark the campers with golf carts do a parade around the campground and toss candy."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near De Motte require reservations, especially during peak summer months. At Love's RV Stop, "We reserved and checked in online," noted one camper, adding that it's "new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court."
Site privacy variations: Privacy between sites varies significantly. At Last Resort Campground, one camper mentioned, "Spaces are TIGHT on the full hook up side. We have a 21' and hardly got in. We were super close to fellow campers." They added that "on the other side of the grounds around the pond (electric only) sites were much bigger and secluded."
Seasonal policy changes: Management changes can affect camping policies. A reviewer at Oak Lake RV Resort pointed out, "This campground was bought out by Zeeman and just announced that tents and pop up campers are NOT allowed." Always check current policies before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, sites near playgrounds offer convenience. At Tippecanoe River State Park, "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."
Beach alternatives: When Lake Michigan beaches get crowded, consider smaller water features at campgrounds. At Oak Lake RV Resort, one camper noted their site "was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential, particularly in warmer months. At Tippecanoe River State Park, one camper warned, "Worst place for mosquitoes," while another advised, "The mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May & they were just getting going. Spring & late fall would be a good time to visit."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Water and electric access varies between campgrounds. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, a camper noted, "sites are full hookup," and they appreciated "a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering."
Site leveling considerations: Terrain affects how easy it is to level RVs. At Love's RV Stop, one camper mentioned their "pull thru site was pretty level," while at Cedar Lake Ministries, sites are described as "well kept."
Large rig accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. Last Resort Campground presents challenges as one camper noted, "We have a 21' and hardly got in," while Love's RV Stop is designed for easy access with a camper reporting it offers "Easy in and out with all the basics plus a nice convenient store and fuel."
