Northwestern Indiana campgrounds near Griffith operate with varying seasonal schedules, typically from mid-April through mid-October, with a few facilities open year-round. The area sits along the southern shore of Lake Michigan at approximately 600 feet elevation, where summer temperatures average 80-85°F with high humidity. Train noise affects most campgrounds in the region due to the dense railway network connecting Chicago to eastern industrial centers.
What to do
Hiking dune trails: At Indiana Dunes National Park, the 3 Dune Challenge offers a moderately challenging hike with lake views. "Big dunes, lovely water. On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake. The state park has many well maintained hiking trails and cross country skiing trails in the winter," notes Anna G. from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to extensive single-track trails. "The mountain bike trails were awesome. If you're a trail rider, you must stay here. The lack of shade won't matter because you'll be riding all day. There are miles and miles of trails," explains Tim K. from Camp Bullfrog Lake.
Kayaking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer paddling access to small lakes with rental equipment available. "The kayaks are $15 an hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around," writes Layla P. about Camp Bullfrog Lake's water recreation options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of bathroom facilities. "The shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus. The hosts were friendly," writes Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground.
Swimming options: Access to Lake Michigan beaches ranks high among visitor priorities. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake. It had really nice bathroom facilities, and changing room facilities there," reports Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Security features: Some private campgrounds implement controlled access for added safety. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," notes Shane M. about Michigan City Campground, which uses a key card system at its entrance.
What you should know
Train noise: Railways running through the region affect nearly all campgrounds. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," explains Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground.
Insect management: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity, particularly in wooded areas. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," warns Katrin M. about Dunewood Campground.
Weekend crowds: Campgrounds near Lake Michigan fill quickly during summer weekends. "Indiana Dunes State park campground is one of our favorites. The beach, the trails, bike trails. There is everything to do here, it does not disappoint. Well the weekend traffic can be a bummer," notes Kirk B.
Tight spacing: Many private campgrounds have limited separation between sites. "Not my favorite place, but it did the job. Staff was great. Everything was run down. Bathroom was ok," reports Carol W. about Lakeshore Camp Resort, where site density is notably high.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity amenities: Select campgrounds with structured recreation options. "This was a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," shares Chad Y. about Lakeshore Camp Resort.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide a transitional experience. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," recommends Dane S. about Camp Sullivan.
Pack for weather variability: Lake effect conditions can create sudden temperature changes. "Loved the proximity of this campground to Lake Michigan! The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," advises Katie O. about Dunewood Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Several campgrounds offer only electric connections. "The sight had 50 amp electric hook ups but no water or sewer connections, and we knew that going in. We had a back in sight #69. There was plenty of space on all sides. We have a 37' motorhome and pulled a Jeep behind it," explains Chris M. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Premium sites worth considering: For longer RVs, reserve premium sites when available. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," recommends Erin B. about Michigan City Campground.
Water tank management: Plan ahead for campgrounds lacking water hookups. "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 Greg S. about camping at Indiana Dunes State Park.
