Best Campgrounds near Hammond, IN

The northwestern corner of Indiana surrounding Hammond features camping options primarily centered around the Indiana Dunes ecosystem, where Lake Michigan shoreline meets diverse inland habitats. Indiana Dunes National Park's Dunewood Campground provides 66 wooded sites with modern facilities but no hookups, while the adjacent Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers 140 sites with electrical hookups. Private alternatives like Sand Creek Campground and Michigan City Campground provide full-service options with amenities ranging from basic tent sites to premium RV spots with 50-amp service. Most campgrounds in this region sit within 30 minutes of Hammond, creating convenient access to both Chicago urban attractions and natural lakefront recreation.

Advance reservations are essential throughout the region, particularly during summer months when beach access drives high demand. As one camper noted, "Dunewood is way less crowded compared to the state park campground, with tons of trails along the lakeshore." Seasonal considerations affect both availability and experience, with fall offering less crowded conditions but cooler temperatures. Highway and railroad noise impacts several campgrounds, particularly Dunewood where visitors report "trains rolling through late and early." Wildlife encounters, especially raccoons, require proper food storage. Water quality in Lake Michigan occasionally faces bacterial concerns, with swimming advisories possible during summer months. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though GPS directions to specific campgrounds can be confusing.

Proximity to Lake Michigan beaches represents the primary draw for most visitors, with trail systems connecting many campgrounds directly to shoreline access points. Several campers mention the contrast between crowded beaches and relatively empty hiking trails, particularly during weekdays. The Indiana Dunes area supports diverse recreational activities beyond swimming, including bird watching in marsh areas and cycling on dedicated bike routes. Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds, with Indiana Dunes State Park receiving praise for its "completely redone campsites and brand new bath houses," while some visitors to Dunewood report maintenance issues with shower facilities. Many campgrounds offer shuttle services during peak season to help visitors navigate beach parking limitations when lots fill quickly on summer weekends.

Best Camping Sites Near Hammond, Indiana (59)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "There’s tons of trails to do along the lakeshore and none are really far from one another. I grew up in NWI so I didn’t camp in Indiana often but I did here and loved it!"

    "General: Dunewood campground is located within Indiana Dunes National Park, established in 2019 (The national seashore was established in the 1960s)."

    2. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $30 / night

    "The most beautiful state park in Indiana IMO."

    "The campground although nearly full was relatively calm and quiet. Unlike the craziness of other Indiana state parks I have visited."

    3. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 762-7757

    $49 - $57 / night

    "A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."

    "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."

    4. Camp Bullfrog Lake

    29 Reviews
    Willow Springs, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-9785

    $20 - $138 / night

    "Great site, not far from Chicago, but feels well away from city life.

    Tent sites around rim of a lake. RV sites and cabins as well."

    "What’s great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite."

    5. Camp Sullivan

    14 Reviews
    Oak Forest, IL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-0041

    $35 - $250 / night

    "Located in a Cook County forest preserve this family camping option is a nice local getaway. The facilities are all newly built or remodeled. The bathrooms are modern."

    "There are several bathrooms around and they are clean. Staff is friendly and welcoming."

    6. Camp Shabbona Woods

    1 Review
    Calumet City, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (312) 636-0018

    $30 - $80 / night

    7. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-7482

    $30 - $90 / night

    "First time to Indiana with a quick trip to the Dunes. We were disappointed the state park was full but found this campground close by."

    "Privately-owned and just a short distance from Indiana Dunes. The owner was very nice and helpful at check-in."

    8. Michigan City Campground

    22 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 872-7600

    "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter."

    "It's easy access, clean spacious sites, and how quiet it was considering it proximity to S.R. 421 brought us back again this year. We visited Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park."

    9. Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park

    1 Review
    Portage, IN
    15 miles
    +1 (219) 762-6578

    10. Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Lowell, IN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 374-5941

    "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds I clouding access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open."

    "Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly."

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Recent Reviews near Hammond, IN

481 Reviews of 59 Hammond Campgrounds



Guide to Hammond

Camping near Hammond, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, 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 away from the beach. A reviewer 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 camper shared, "Fishing, kayaking on the lake," making it clear that water activities are a hit here.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground. One camper warned, "The mosquitoes are absolutely terrible due to the campground's proximity to the Tippacanoe River."
  • Noise Levels: If you're looking for peace and quiet, consider the noise at Warren Dunes State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night."
  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds, like Weko Beach Campground, have close sites. A reviewer said, "The sites are randomly laid out and on top of each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Potato Creek State Park Campground. One parent shared, "Great playground on the east side of the first loop. Kids seem to play there for hours."
  • Family Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer activities for kids. At Blackwell Family Campground, a reviewer noted, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."
  • Safety: Many campgrounds have friendly staff who keep an eye on things. A visitor at Michigan City Campground mentioned, "Very well kept safe supervision."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Size: Check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at Camp Bullfrog Lake said, "The spots are small and it’s very crowded."
  • Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park offers electric hookups, which many RVers appreciate.
  • Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with good dump stations. A camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Fresh water fill and dump stations were the best we’ve seen anywhere."

Camping around Hammond, Indiana, has something for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent, you'll find a spot that suits your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Hammond, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hammond, IN is Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 126 reviews.

What parks are near Hammond, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Hammond, IN that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.