Camping cabins near De Motte, Indiana provide easy access to the Kankakee River watershed, a region characterized by sandy soil and wetlands. Winter temperatures typically range from 15-30°F while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity. The area's flat topography makes for beginner-friendly hiking but requires proper mosquito protection during peak summer months.
What to do
Obstacle course swimming: Oak Lake RV Resort features a pond with inflatable obstacles that keeps families entertained. "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!" notes one visitor to Oak Lake RV Resort.
Hiking and firetower views: The firetower at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers panoramic views after a short hike. "The fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax," shares one camper. Another visitor notes, "There is a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short."
Commuter train day trips: For those wanting to mix outdoor experiences with city adventures, the South Shore commuter train provides transportation from Michigan City to Chicago. One visitor at Michigan City Campground appreciates this option: "You are close to Indiana Dunes and the downtown area of Michigan city. Good food, shops are close by."
What campers like
Private beach access: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park offers private lake amenities that visitors appreciate. "There was a nice big field for the dog to run. Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly," reports one guest of Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
Security features: Michigan City Campground provides gated entrance security that families value. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," notes one camper. Another visitor appreciates the "secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean."
Fishing opportunities: Many campsites offer direct water access for fishing. At Caboose Lake Campground, "Almost every spot has a waters edge. I plan coming back here in the middle of summer," reports a visitor. Another camper at Caboose Lake Campground describes it as a "Great spot to pull off the main road and let the kids out and burn off some energy. Beautiful lake!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities operate from April through October with limited off-season options. Potato Creek State Park Campground is among the few open year-round, though winter amenities may be limited. "Typical Indiana Campground with basic amenities, older comfort stations and spotty WIFI. I like unplugging but sometimes work demands I respond promptly," notes one visitor.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near wetland areas. "Mosquitoes 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," advises a Tippecanoe River camper. Another simply states, "Worst place for mosquitoes."
Water quality notices: Some lakes in the region may have seasonal algae issues. A visitor to Potato Creek notes, "Unfortunately, the lake was a little on the undesirable side...blue-green algae warnings made us not want to put more than our feet in the water. The beach area is nice, though."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas for convenience. At Pioneer Family Campground, "We tent camped with 8 small kiddos. One of the largest tent sites I've been on. There is a small playground, and a pond for swimming and fishing," reports a visitor who appreciated the layout.
Nearby attractions: Research local facilities outside the campgrounds. "Near the campground is an awesome playground (Lincoln Township Park), as well as an adorable family owned Ice Cream shop (Sycamore Drive-In)," mentions a Pioneer Family Campground visitor.
Rental equipment: Some campgrounds offer recreational equipment. "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," notes a visitor to Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup distance planning: Bring extended electrical cords for some state park sites. "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up," advises a Potato Creek visitor. "With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes."
Arrival assistance: Some campgrounds provide setup help for larger rigs. At Oak Lake RV Resort, "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."
Premium site options: For longer stays, consider upgraded sites with more amenities. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained," reports a Michigan City Campground visitor who appreciated the full-service options.
