Best Campgrounds near Elkhart, IN

Camping areas around Elkhart, Indiana, include several state parks within driving distance. Tippecanoe River State Park Campground has both basic sites and ones with more facilities, plus you can canoe or fish on the river right there. Van Buren State Park Campground sits close to Lake Michigan, with trails and beach access nearby. If you camp at Pokagon State Park, you'll find electric hookups and clean bathrooms in a wooded setting. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground works well for water-loving campers, as you can boat and fish on multiple connected lakes. You'll need reservations during busy times, especially summer weekends. Local fire rules change throughout the year, so check before you go. Most campers prefer spring and fall here since summers get humid and winters are cold. The roads to these campgrounds are in good shape, though a few remote spots might need a short walk or boat trip. Don't plan on gathering firewood - bring your own instead, as collecting is typically not allowed in these parks. These camping spots range from quiet to activity-filled, depending on what you want.

Best Camping Sites Near Elkhart, Indiana (120)

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Recent Reviews near Elkhart, IN

618 Reviews of 120 Elkhart Campgrounds



Guide to Elkhart

Camping near Elkhart, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Potato Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails."
  • Beach Access: Spend a day at the beach near Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. A camper shared, "It's only 20 minutes from our home, so we expect to come back many times."
  • Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing or kayaking at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Michigan City Campground. One visitor said, "Very well kept, safe supervision, quiet clean facilities."
  • Wooded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by the wooded sites at Fort Custer Recreation Area. A camper remarked, "Huge beautiful campground. Lots of privacy."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Pokagon State Park Campground. One review stated, "The camp host are very nice couple. Everyone was very friendly."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground. A visitor warned, "The mosquitoes are absolutely terrible due to the campground's proximity to the Tippacanoe River."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, particularly on weekends. A reviewer at Warren Dunes State Park Campground mentioned, "The place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful."
  • Limited Privacy: Some sites are close together, like at Van Buren State Park Campground. A camper noted, "Clean campground with large sites but no privacy between sites."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Van Buren State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Family-oriented campground with 2 playgrounds—thus very noisy during the day with kids."
  • Cabin Rentals: Consider renting a cabin at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground for a more comfortable stay. One family said, "The cabins are small but perfectly fine for our group."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to plan activities like hiking or fishing to keep kids engaged. A camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "This is a BIG park, the campgrounds are two miles from the front gate."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites, especially at Pokagon State Park Campground. A reviewer advised, "Some sites can accommodate larger rigs, most can't."
  • Dump Station Access: Be aware of dump station locations, as noted by a camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground. They mentioned, "The dump station needed a serious update."
  • Book Early: Popular campgrounds like Indiana Dunes State Park Campground fill up quickly, especially in summer. A visitor warned, "Very popular campground so you do have to book well in advance during regular season."

Camping around Elkhart, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Elkhart, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Elkhart, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 120 campgrounds and RV parks near Elkhart, IN and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Elkhart, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elkhart, IN is Potato Creek State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 48 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elkhart, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Elkhart, IN.

What parks are near Elkhart, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Elkhart, IN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.