Tent camping near Griffith, Indiana provides options within a 45-mile radius, with several campgrounds accessible via walk-in trails. The region features a mix of prairie and woodland terrain along waterways like the Kankakee River and Lake Michigan's southern shore. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during summer months when thunderstorms often develop in the late afternoon.
What to do
Fishing access points: Mac Finn's Landing offers direct water access for fishing enthusiasts. According to one visitor, it has "one of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River" with "lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers."
Cycling opportunities: The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail provides excellent biking routes connected to camping areas. Art S. notes that Channahon State Park Campground is "perfect for cyclists along the canal trail" and "a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
Canoeing routes: Multiple waterways near McKinley Woods allow for paddling adventures. A camper reports: "We canoed 3 miles up to the state park before we could cross over to the DuPage (a lovely river) and then back on the Des Plaines." Water conditions vary seasonally, with algae accumulation during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites in Indiana Dunes National Park are arranged for maximum seclusion. As Don W. explains, "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy... 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."
Accessible features: McKinley Woods features ADA-compliant camping options. Brian O. notes the sites have "enormous banquet sized picnic tables with cut-out in the bench for wheelchairs" and "two of the four sites are paved as well." The park includes accessible paths despite being a walk-in campground.
Shaded spots: While some campgrounds lack mature trees, Davis Creek Campground at Kankakee River State Park offers established shade cover. Andrea F. shares that "This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water."
What you should know
Gate closures: Some campgrounds implement strict entrance policies. At Camp Shabbona Woods, a camper reported that "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite."
Noise considerations: Urban sounds are noticeable at campgrounds closer to Griffith. Jeffrey L. mentions experiencing "the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background" during their stay.
Flooding potential: Be prepared for rapid weather changes affecting ground conditions. One camper at McKinley Woods described: "Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: New campers should consider Camp Shabbona Woods for their first outings. Scott M. explains the campground "is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping," though he cautions "campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing."
Water safety planning: Families camping near waterways should prepare for varying conditions. At McKinley Woods, one visitor noted "The canal is navigable, but swampy with algae and some downed trees" and water access points may have unexpected elevation changes.
