Glamping options near Garrett, Indiana span across multiple counties in the northeastern corner of the state. The region sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level and experiences four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters. Fall camping offers colorful foliage displays while spring brings abundant wildflowers throughout the region's lake-dotted landscape.
What to do
Lake recreation access: Chain O'Lakes State Park offers diverse water activities on its connected lakes. "Great camping level site," reports a camper who stayed at this Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite. The park maintains boat rentals and launch points across multiple connected waterways.
Trail exploration: Pokagon State Park maintains an extensive trail system connecting to nearby nature preserves. "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," notes a reviewer of Pokagon State Park Campground. The network features varying difficulty levels with trail markers throughout.
Cultural experiences: Visit Amish communities within 30 minutes of camping areas. "Nice place to stay for all your Shipshewana needs," writes a camper from Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park. The area hosts craft markets, furniture makers, and authentic Amish food establishments throughout the region.
What campers like
Urban-adjacent camping: Johnny Appleseed Campground provides access to city amenities while maintaining natural surroundings. "This is a small campground in the middle of the city. It's directly across the road from the Saint Joe River, very near a dam," explains a reviewer of Johnny Appleseed Campground. The campground connects to the River Greenway path for extended walking and cycling.
Modern facilities: Many glamping sites maintain exceptional bathroom facilities. "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky while you take a shower," notes a Johnny Appleseed camper about their facilities. Most campgrounds feature clean, maintained shower buildings with hot water.
Privacy options: Bixler Lake Park offers secluded camping experiences. "This is by far the place to just relax. It does have its moments...holidays and special events. Even then campers here live by the lights out code," shares a visitor to Bixler Lake Park & Campground. The park enforces quiet hours consistently for peaceful overnight stays.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping operations run from April through October, with limited winter options. "We spent this past week at Hogback Lake KOA. It is late in the season so much of the park was closed for the season, but we had a great year round site," explains a visitor to Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday. Book accommodations early for peak summer and fall dates.
Site differences: Campgrounds often have distinct sections with varying amenities and privacy. "The sites are well spaced and provide privacy if you want it plus room for extra tents or shelters," notes a Pokagon State Park visitor about their experience. Research specific site numbers when booking.
Highway proximity: Some camping areas sit near major roads with potential noise. "Sites were nice and secluded where we were, but you could hear a few late night partiers nearby," reports a Pokagon camper. Request interior sites away from highways when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Seek campgrounds with swimming and splash areas for children. "A lake to cool off in that's not too far from the south loop sites," mentions a visitor to Harrison Lake State Park Campground. Multiple parks maintain designated swimming beaches with varying amenities.
Kid-specific programming: Many sites run scheduled activities for younger campers. "Tons of things to do (playgrounds, lake, beach, hiking, horseback and pony rides etc). The lodge is a nice structure but the food we sampled was mediocre," reports a Pokagon State Park visitor. Check event calendars when planning visits.
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with multiple play areas. "There are 3 playgrounds and boat area on the lake," notes an Angola/Hogback Lake KOA visitor. Most family-oriented sites maintain playgrounds near camping loops.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Research specific site lengths and widths before booking. "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," warns a Pokagon State Park visitor. Measure your rig's requirements against available spaces.
Utility connections: Verify hookup locations and amperage before arrival. "We had a wonderful experience! Our site was backed up to a horse pasture," shares a camper from Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park. Most sites provide 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at individual sites. "No bathhouse just pit toilets," notes a Kil-So-Quah visitor about their facilities. Plan tank usage accordingly for longer stays without full hookups.
