Chain O' Lakes State Park near Fort Wayne, Indiana offers varied camping experiences spanning nine connected lakes. Located in Albion, about 45 minutes from Fort Wayne at 2,355 East 75 South, the park combines water-based recreation with forested campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping provides cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to do
Kayaking on connected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park features a system of nine interconnected lakes perfect for paddling. Boat rentals are available directly from the park. "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored. The facility is clean and very safe," notes Amanda J. from Chain O' Lakes.
Hiking across varied terrain: Trails at Ouabache State Park offer different ecosystem experiences. "Love all the trails here, lots of options for how long of a hike you want to take! There's a surprising variation between more deciduous and coniferous environments depending on the trail you choose," says Bethany S.
Horseback riding and trails: Limited equestrian camping near Fort Wayne includes Salamonie River State Forest with primitive camping facilities. "Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty," explains Whitley K. The forest allows horses on designated trails with basic accommodations for overnight horse camping.
Bison viewing: "The bison enclosure is always fun to check out, and the last time we stayed I actually walked to the top of the restored fire tower to take in the view," shares Jacob A. about Ouabache State Park, which maintains a small bison herd that visitors can observe from designated viewing areas.
What campers like
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for cooling off during summer months. "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," reports Jeremy C. from Chain O' Lakes State Park, which maintains a designated swimming beach with changing facilities.
Variety of site options: From primitive to electric, campgrounds near Fort Wayne offer multiple setup choices. At Pokagon State Park, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions; would be a great spot for a family reunion," describes Amy K.
Lake views: Premium sites at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area offer scenic vistas. "Sites 221-243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access. Sites 228 & 232 have sites with good access to the lake," explains Cynthia K., noting the distinction between viewing and accessing the water.
Winter facilities: "Love this place for winter camping. The campground comfort stations are heated all winter long," shares Lisa N. about Ouabache State Park, making it one of the few horse-friendly campgrounds near Fort Wayne with winterized facilities.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "We camped in our teardrop on the primitive tent loop. Sites were nice and secluded where we were, but you could hear a few late night partiers nearby," reports Anand from Pokagon State Park.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have water concerns. "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter! But we did enjoy our weekend here," warns emily P. about Ouabache State Park.
Limited equestrian amenities: For horse camping near Fort Wayne, Salamonie River State Forest provides basic facilities. "Cheap, $13 self pay. No electric or showers but do have bathroom. Very secluded luv it here," says amber P. Horse owners should bring water containers and portable corrals as dedicated facilities are minimal.
Beach crowds: "The beach is often overcrowded with local partiers, drinking and smoking, and leaving trash everywhere. After peak hours these people clear out and usually aren't actually camping there," explains Whitley K. about Chain O' Lakes State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, choose sites near play areas. "There were three playgrounds," notes J C. about Lost Bridge West, providing options for different age groups.
Nature programs: "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," shares Julie B. from Chain O' Lakes. Many parks offer ranger-led programs specifically for children during summer months.
Tent location considerations: "We were in the tent portion and it was very loud, the pit toilets did not have doors, and there were some mosquitoes," cautions Truly W. about Chain O' Lakes, suggesting families with young children might prefer sites in the RV section with better bathrooms.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," warns J C. about Pokagon State Park. Measure your rig before booking to ensure proper fit.
Dump station access: "Double dump station. Stay away from campsites 101 & 102 - these are right by the dump station," advises Cynthia K. about Lost Bridge West, highlighting the importance of site selection for RV campers concerned about odors or traffic.
Electric service details: "Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service. Fill up on water at the water filling station before going to your site," recommends Cynthia K. about Lost Bridge West, noting the lack of water hookups at individual sites despite electrical availability.
