RV parks near Gary, Indiana typically operate in a region characterized by a mix of industrial landscapes and natural lakefront settings. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and cold winters. Cell service quality generally improves closer to urban centers than at more remote lakefront locations, with AT&T and Verizon providing the most reliable coverage throughout the region.
What to do
Beach access at Lake Michigan: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers a nature trail leading directly to Lake Michigan beaches where visitors can experience lake swimming and sunset views. "The beach and dunes are the star of this show, but the campground is a good supporting actor," notes one camper who particularly enjoyed the soft sand trails.
Three Dune Challenge: Tackle the hiking trails at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground for a moderate workout climbing the park's highest dunes. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," mentions a visitor who completed the popular trail system.
Water recreation on Cedar Lake: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides access to a private beach on Cedar Lake where visitors can use provided canoes and kayaks with life jackets. According to a recent visitor, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alexander RV Park offers fishing access on its 120-acre property along the Kankakee River. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago. The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River," notes a camper who enjoyed the water access.
What campers like
Secure gated facilities: Love's RV Stop provides security features appreciated by overnight travelers. "Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids," reports a satisfied camper who appreciated the secure environment.
Well-maintained bathhouses: Many campgrounds maintain clean shower facilities that receive positive reviews. At Oak Lake RV Resort, visitors note the cleanliness of facilities. "Clean shower and bathroom," mentions a recent guest who appreciated the maintenance standards.
Quiet camping environments: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds maintain peaceful atmospheres. At Lakeside RV Resort, "This campground has a private lake which is surrounded by farmland. Lots of primitive sites right next to the lake," according to a camper who appreciated the secluded setting.
Staff assistance with setup: Oak Lake RV Resort provides exceptional arrival services. "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," reports a guest traveling with a 44-foot RV.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise that might affect light sleepers, particularly at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," warns a tent camper who had sleep disruptions.
Reservation requirements: Most RV parks near Gary, Indiana require advance booking during summer months, with weekend slots filling months ahead. At Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort, which operates year-round, visitors can find availability even during peak seasons.
Varying amenity levels: While some parks offer full amenities, others provide only basic services. At Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park, "This place is more of a trailer park for more long term residents. They don't provide any showers toilets or wifi. As well every spot has cemented runners which is a nice touch but you must back into them," reports a visitor who noticed the limited facilities.
Water quality issues: Water quality varies considerably between campgrounds. At Enchanted Shores RV Park & Campground, campers have noted water quality concerns. "The stinkest water we've ever smelled, horrible!!! Our sewer connection was nearly buried," reported one camper who recommended using bottled water.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Oak Lake RV Resort, families appreciate the convenient play areas. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," notes a parent who found the setup particularly convenient.
Recreation facilities: Love's RV Stop includes sports courts that provide activity options for children. "Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids," mentions a visitor who appreciated the recreation options.
Swimming safety awareness: Families should note that Lake Michigan can develop dangerous currents. At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," warns a visitor who observed the water conditions.
Evening activities: Several campgrounds organize family-friendly evening events during summer months. Oak Lake RV Resort offers "movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories," according to a family that extended their stay to participate in these activities.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides electric service without water or sewer connections. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," advises an RV camper who planned accordingly.
Campsite selection strategy: At Indiana Dunes State Park, "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," recommends a camper who researched site options.
Dump station availability: Most campgrounds maintain dump stations, though waiting times vary during peak checkout periods. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides "Two dump stations made wait minimal," according to a camper who appreciated the efficient setup.
Electrical service reliability: Some RV sites experience electrical issues during peak usage periods. At Love's RV Stop, one camper noted, "The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue but still make sure your using your EPM devices."
