Camping opportunities near Woodburn, Indiana include options on public lands and private properties throughout the region. Located in the St. Joseph River watershed at approximately 750 feet elevation, the area features mostly flat terrain with occasional small hills. Most campgrounds in northeastern Indiana remain open from April through October, though winter camping is available at select locations like Ouabache State Park where comfort stations are heated year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple trail options for varying skill levels. "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored. The facility is clean and very safe," shares one visitor to Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground.
Bison viewing: Ouabache State Park maintains a bison enclosure that families can visit. "The camp sites are mostly spaced out for room, but some can get very wet and flooded during a nice rain. The paved bike trail in the park starts near the campground, and connects with a bike trail along the Wabash River that goes into nearby Bluffton," notes a camper at Ouabache State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds provide lake or river access for fishing, boating, and swimming. "The beach and swimming area were very nice. Our boys loved the water slide anchored in the lake to play on," mentions a visitor at Woodbrige Campground in nearby Paulding, Ohio.
What campers like
Modern facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds in the area. "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky. Why you take a shower and while you go to the bathroom is well. It's a beautiful bathroom very well kept," reports one camper about Johnny Appleseed Campground.
Fire tower views: Ouabache State Park offers a 200-foot restored fire tower visitors can climb. "The last time we stayed I actually walked to the top of the restored fire tower to take in the view," shares a visitor. The tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest and farmland.
Accessibility to urban amenities: Indian Springs Campground in Garrett offers convenient shopping access while still providing outdoor recreation. "Absolutely love this peaceful, quiet campground. We stay here weeks at a time when visiting Cincinnati. It's no frills, but the view, the ducks and the serenity are well worth staying here," notes one camper.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Many campgrounds near Woodburn feature sites with limited privacy. "The campground is almost in the middle of Fort Wayne. Most of the sites are very close and no vegetation to allow any privacy. On the positive side, the bathrooms were very nice and clean. The staff was also very helpful," reports a visitor to Johnny Appleseed Campground.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds in the region have water issues to be aware of. "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter! But we did enjoy our weekend here," advises a camper at Ouabache State Park.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season affects availability and amenities. "Boat & kayak rentals are available, but closed after Labor Day," notes a Pokagon State Park Campground visitor who stayed in late September.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities, though some charge additional fees. "There is a Waterpark, pool, and hot tub at this campground you can access for an additional price," explains a visitor to Kimpels Hickory Acres.
Playground options: Many campgrounds include playground equipment for children. "Bathrooms are nice, and there is also a playground!" mentions a Johnny Appleseed Campground visitor. Some campgrounds also offer additional recreational facilities like jump pads.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for wildlife interactions, particularly at state parks. "The raccoons were pretty annoying though," warns an Ouabache State Park visitor. Store food securely to prevent attracting unwanted wildlife to your campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Some campgrounds have shorter sites that may not accommodate larger rigs. "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven. Bike trail, hiking trails, store, beach, inn, nature center," advises a Pokagon State Park camper.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are standard at most campgrounds near Woodburn, but full hookups are less common. "Only draw back is no water and sewer hook up at the campsite," notes an Ouabache State Park visitor. Many campgrounds offer dump stations instead of sewer hookups.
Campground layout: For RVers seeking specific site characteristics, research the campground layout in advance. "We were in the tent portion and it was very loud, the pit toilets did not have doors, and there were some mosquitoes. It was Memorial Day weekend which could explain the noise/busy-ness. The RV sites have better bathrooms I believe," explains a visitor to Chain O' Lakes State Park.
