Top Tent Camping near Gary, IN

Looking for the best Gary tent camping? Find the best information on tent camping near Gary, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Gary campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Gary, IN (8)

    • No image available

      1. Camp Shabbona Woods

      1 Review
      37 Saves
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $30 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

      2. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

      1 Review
      10 Photos
      24 Saves

      Overview

      Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

      Recreation

      There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

      Facilities

      There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

      Natural Features

      Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.____ The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.__ For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

      Nearby Attractions

      Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan is located nearby, less than 5,000 feet (1524 m) from the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

      Charges & Cancellations

      A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (camping reservations cancelled the day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus a forfeiture of the first night's use fee.__ For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies.__

      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Toilets

      $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      3. Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      2 Reviews
      2 Photos
      12 Saves

      Davis Creek Campground is available by reservation for chaperoned youth and church groups. All areas require camping permits, available at the park office or from park personnel in state vehicles. Groups of 25 or more are required to obtain a free activity permit from the park office.

      • Reservable
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing

      4. Mac Finn's Landing

      1 Review
      16 Photos
      24 Saves

      Tent camping fishmermen's retreat.

      Parking Available for guests.

      Boat friendly. (Kayak rental Available.)

      Season ending December 1st, 2022.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $35 - $50 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove
      Camper-submitted photo from McKinley Woods:  Frederick's Grove

      5. McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove

      3 Reviews
      17 Photos
      39 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents

      $15 - $30 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Channahon State Park

      6. Channahon State Park

      1 Review
      7 Photos
      29 Saves

      Channahon State Park is the official trailhead for the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Channahon is an Indian word meaning "the meeting of the waters" and signifies the joining of the DuPage, Des Plaines and Kankakee rivers. Today, Channahon State Park is under the management of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and provides park visitors a look back at a historic waterway that transformed a state. Locks 6 & 7 and the original locktenders house at Lock 6 located at the Channahon State Park enable visitors to daydream of a time when one of the loudest noises heard came from a blacksmith pounding out a new set of horse shoes. Only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked to the campsite. Fire rings, picnic tables, and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance from the camping area. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table
      • No image available

        7. Illinois and Michigan Canal

        Be the first to review!
        4 Saves

        Backpack carry-in is allowed at designated sites along the 61 mile trail. Tent and youth group camping are also available at Channahon and Gebhard Woods. Open fires are permitted in camp stoves and fire pits provided at the sites. Permits must be obtained from the park offices prior to camping.

        Call the park office for location of these sites. Class D sites are for tent camping or primitive sites (walk-in or backpack) with no vehicular access.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents

        $6 / night

        • No image available

          8. Hammel Woods

          Be the first to review!
          • Reservable
          • Tents
          • Group

          $20 - $40 / night


        Recent Tent Reviews In Gary

        462 Reviews of 8 Gary Campgrounds


        • PThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Oak Lake RV Resort
          Oct. 28, 2024

          Oak Lake RV Resort

          Quiet, nice place.

          Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom.

        • A
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Oct. 22, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Great for short stay

          I’m very familiar with Warren Dunes but this was my first time camping here. Great walks and hikes and the short drive to the beach is a plus. The sites aren’t too private and can fill up quickly. The bathrooms were clean and stocked. I read lots of reviews about the noise from the road and nearby highway and I didn’t think it would bother me, but I was wrong. I wish I had some ear plugs because I had difficulty falling asleep. Overall great place, especially for beginner campers as there is a small onsite store for camp basics. Three stars due to noise and not much privacy.

        • TThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
          Oct. 21, 2024

          Camp Sullivan

          Urban Camping near Chicago

          Camp Sullivan offers a charming and well-maintained space for campers of all kinds, from tent enthusiasts to RV travelers like us. All the RV sites here are back in, and while they are tight, they are certainly manageable. We brought our 36-foot RV, the Badger, and although it barely fit, we were able to position it close enough to the power box by choosing not to extend the slide. This turned out to be a smart decision, considering the timbers that line the gravel surface of the site. These timbers add a bit of a challenge when maneuvering a larger rig, and in our case, (note to staff) removing the timber closest to the road would have made things much easier. 

          Each RV site is equipped with 15, 30, and 50-amp electrical connections, though it’s worth noting that there’s no water or sewer available at individual sites. As a result, water conservation becomes essential. The bathrooms here, however, are clean and well-kept, which is always appreciated, especially after a few days without on-site water. There is also a stainless steel sink for use in front of the RV area's bathroom where you can do dishes.

          Security at Camp Sullivan feels solid, and while there is some noise, it wasn’t disruptive. We stayed over a weekend, and though there was a lively group in the group campsite Saturday night, they respectfully wrapped up their activities by quiet hours, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. 

          The roads throughout the campground are in good condition, and the trees aren’t a concern for your RV clearance. In addition to RV sites, Camp Sullivan offers a range of accommodations for all kinds of campers. There are small rental cabins, large bunkhouses for group camping, and plenty of tent sites spread across the grounds. We didn’t have the chance to check out the"Barn" yet, but it’s a major feature here, housing a climbing wall and concessions. 

          We also noticed staff busy cleaning the bunkhouse areas and taking care of trash removal, even on a quiet Sunday. Everyone we encountered was friendly and added to the overall positive vibe of the place. Camp Sullivan is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, (up to six days allowed) with plenty of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where we feel comfortable and cared for, with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

        • Iryna R.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Resort
          Oct. 6, 2024

          Leisure Lake Resort

          Good resort very bad water

          We booked a month stay but weren’t able to stay over 2 weeks because water is so horrible. Our cat got diarrhea, clothes got ruined, you can’t even make tea with that water. But everything else was good. Nice helpful staff, clean, quiet rv park.

        • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
          Oct. 5, 2024

          Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

          Safe and comfortable campground

          Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.

        • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
          Sep. 15, 2024

          Camp Bullfrog Lake

          Pretty great!

          I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

        • Jim L.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Martin’s Camping Ground
          Sep. 8, 2024

          Martin’s Camping Ground

          Parking lot

          Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper.No picnic table, no firing, bathroom and showers were clean. Thought it strange that you needed a combination to get in the bathroom.Seems like most people live there. With a few sites for People passing through. If you’re looking for a place to park for the night and take a shower this is all I would recommend this place for

        • M
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Jul. 23, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Great place to stay for a few days!

          Stayed for 3 days/2 nights. Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful. Most spots were fairly out in the open, but we had a nice spot with a few trees hiding us on 3 sides and not too far from water or bathroom trail. Bathrooms were decent and we liked the private showers, warm water!

          Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!

          The only major downfall was the price of everything at the little store. $6 for an ice cream sandwich!?! No thanks! However, be sure to visit The Beach Bucket for your ice cream cravings on those hot days!! They also have firewood which burned so much better than what the camp store offered.

        • Rebekah J.
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Jul. 11, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Lots of road noise and LOTS of mosquitoes

          Stayed at site 201 at the Hildebrandt campground. Sites are smallish. Most sites have some shade, but little privacy in between. The scenery wasnt that great, mostly vine like trees you'd see in a flood plain. The water pump was out during our stay and needed to go to the station near the modern campground.

          We were scheduled to stay for 3d/2n but plans changed due to weather from hurricane beryl. It started to rain in the first evening and we had a mini creek running through our site. With the amount of rain projected to be on its way we could only imagine it being completely flooded.

          Mosquitoes were awful even before the rain. Vault toilets were well taken care of.

          If you want quite or the sound of nature, this campground is not for you. You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night. The general store near the campground entrance is a nice convenience if you forgot something or need ice/fire wood.

          It is wonderful though how close the Campground are to Lake Michigan/warren dunes, which is why we stayed.

        • D G.
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Jun. 24, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Better for a Day Trip

          Went with my in laws who have a camper (I typically camp rustic). The site we were at was smaller and narrow. There was also a lot of noise from the I-94 freeway nearby while trying to sleep.

          While the hiking was good and the beach beautiful, they don’t allow alcohol which is my favorite post hike/beach activity.

          Overall I’d do a day trip for the hiking and beach, but stay elsewhere.

        • JThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Jun. 13, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Excellent park

          While, this state park seems relatively small. The spaces are very big. They have a great little general store. The beach is just down the drive. Mood is mellow and relaxing place. Small con-a little bit of flooding. Despite other reviews online no radiation from the nuclear power plant.

        • BThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Weko Beach Campground
          Jun. 12, 2024

          Weko Beach Campground

          Campground review

          The sites are randomly laid out and on top of each other. The bathhouse looked bad. You could hike the wooden walkway trails over the dunes easily. Pay to park public beach was very close.the beach area was very nice. Campground was not.

        • BThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Jun. 12, 2024

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Near the dunes and a nice public beach

          This campground is a place to stay while you visit the huge dunes. Developed sites are very small and close together. Sand/grass pads that are not defined. Undeveloped or tent area was almost empty and bigger but no electric. Cabin area has best sites. Cabins are small. Limited toilets. Public beach was nice...quite a few people. Separate area for dogs to play on the beach. Hike the dunes for a great workout

        • Linda N.
          Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Family Campground
          Jun. 11, 2024

          Blackwell Family Campground

          Great little getaway

          This was our first time camping tryout and we had a blast. It is deep enough in the forest preserve to feel like camping but is not far from our home, which allows for a quick getaway. The campsite was very clean and the staff/ranger nice and knowledgeable. The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around.

          The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn't use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean. 

          As other reviewers said, since it is in the forest preserve, the gates close an hour after sunset and reopen at sunrise. The ranger did cruise through the sites to make a formal announcement so that visitors could leave. It is also close to a main road and you could easily hear cars passing by throughout the night. We will definitely be revisiting as a quick getaway spot.

        • k
          Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake
          Jun. 1, 2024

          Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake

          AWFUL!

          We just went there last night and woke up came home immediately! There was nothing to do at all! A run down park, lake and sites. There was boards with nails just laying all around the park. Not to mention the park was falling apart. It was more of a trailer park than a camping site. The garbage can was overflowing all over the ground. We payed for 2 nights and owner never got back to me to get our money back for tonight! Would not recommend one bit.

        • CThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Membership Resort
          Apr. 5, 2024

          Leisure Lake Membership Resort

          "Easter Week at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park"

          "Our family had an incredible stay at Leisure Lake Resort RV Park over Easter week. The location was perfect for a peaceful retreat, and the amenities provided everything we needed for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The kids had a blast with the available activities, and it was the ideal setting for our family to come together and create lasting memories. The staff was exceptionally friendly and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was pleasant. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a family-friendly getaway!"

        • Katie A.
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Nov. 29, 2023

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Nice spot for hiking

          Small campsites, but great hiking trails. Found lots of pawpaw fruit and loved playing on the beach after a nice hike. Lots of road noise at night and the sites aren’t very private.

        • Brad J.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
          Oct. 10, 2023

          Warren Dunes State Park

          Very busy and overall facilities are a bit tired

          Dunes are gorgeous but honestly I'd rather have gone for a day trip and camped elsewhere for the price. Breakers and outlet on the power pole in the site were falling into the box, showers and bathrooms are a bit worn out etc. Campsites are side by side and it was more packed than a Walmart parking lot. Make sure you bring supplies or treats, the "camp store" was charging $9 for a bag of Doritos...

        • Katherine T.
          Camper-submitted photo from Chippewa Campground at Kankakee River State Park Campground
          Sep. 26, 2023

          Chippewa Campground at Kankakee River State Park Campground

          Ok for an overnight

          The sites here are pretty close together and not particularly private. The good thing is it wasn't particularly booked up the night I stayed there. No showers and the pit toilets exist. (I've seen worse, I've seen better, clean but doors are a bit hard to shut the door, no handwashing readily available). I'd recommend this for folks bringing a camper more so than planning to pitch a tent if you want to stay more than one night.  It's a good spot for a quick overnight just outside Chicago.

        • DThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
          Sep. 16, 2023

          Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

          Nice and private.

          The spot was clean. It’s far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long. Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail. You have to walk all the way down and take a left before you find sites 5, 4, 3, and 2 in that order.



        Guide to Gary

        Camping near Gary, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

        What to do

        • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails," highlighting the great biking options available.
        • Beach Access: The Warren Dunes State Park Campground is just a short drive from the beach. A camper noted, "The beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!"
        • Fishing and Kayaking: At Potato Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. One reviewer shared, "Fishing, kayaking on the lake," making it clear that water activities are a hit here.

        What campers like

        • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms. A visitor at Dunewood Campground said, "The bathrooms were clean with individual locking showers."
        • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground noted, "The friendly park security directed us to the campground."
        • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the space between sites. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground remarked, "Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails."

        What you should know

        • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Warren Dunes State Park Campground warned, "Mosquitoes were awful even before the rain."
        • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground mentioned, "The mosquitoes are prolific and abundant! We left early."
        • Crowded Areas: Certain campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Michigan City Campground said, "The sites are close together and the fire rings are small."

        Tips for camping with families

        • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. One camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground noted, "Great playground on the east side of the first loop."
        • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer activities for kids. A visitor at Blackwell Family Campground mentioned, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."
        • Safety: Ensure the campground has good supervision. A camper at Michigan City Campground said, "Very well kept safe supervision quiet clean facilities."

        Tips from RVers

        • Big Rig Friendly: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Dunewood Campground mentioned, "Big rig friendly."
        • Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has electric hookups. A camper at Warren Dunes State Park Campground appreciated the availability of "electric hookups."
        • Dump Stations: Check for dump stations before you arrive. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground highlighted, "Fresh water fill and dump stations were the best we’ve seen anywhere."

        Camping near Gary, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to prepare for the bugs and noise, and you’ll have a great time!

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gary, IN?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gary, IN is Camp Shabbona Woods with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Gary, IN?

          TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Gary, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.