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

    127 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

    $23 / 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

    30 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

    15 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

    2 Reviews
    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. The Vaudeville

    4 Reviews
    Chicago, IL
    20 miles
    +1 (312) 420-4204

    "There is easy access to public transportation. It was HOT and there are no plug ins or use of generators so plan accordingly"

    10. Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park

    1 Review
    Portage, IN
    15 miles
    +1 (219) 762-6578
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Recent Reviews near Hammond, IN

492 Reviews of 59 Hammond Campgrounds


  • Katrin M.
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Campground Indiana Dunes

    We camped here on our way to Minnesota. The campsite had the typical amenities like a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground was clean and it was quiet. The bathroom was a bit outdated, but clean. The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening. Overall, it was a nice campground with spacious sites. It was not a long car ride at all to Lake Michigan.

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Nice Campground But Spendy

    Nice campground with easy access to dunes and lake, but the nightly fee for a motorhome with electric only (no water) was $60 a night. Quite a bit higher than we would typically go for, but other campgrounds in the area were shut down for the season. The spaces are small but it wasn’t too crowded, bathrooms and showers were very clean.

  • Abhinay
    Oct. 7, 2025

    The Vaudeville

    Peaceful stay

    It’s was great nd peaceful place for staying on weekends for relaxation.

  • Ray S.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

    Great campground with everything you would need

    This was my first camping trip with family. After lots of research, I picked Kankakee river state park. This is a reasonablly priced campground with all facilities in great condition. And it is very spacious with woods separating your neighbors. The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quite time was not strictly enforced. It could be we are there on a Saturday night.

  • Emma H.
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

    Great for our 2 person campout!

    My fiancé and I stayed in the Hickory Loop spot 3. We are very new campers, so we just have a very basic tent setup. When we checked in with the host, there were bundles of firewood for $8 (either cash or cash app). The spots are not huge, and not super private (you have next door and across the street neighbors), but we didn’t mind that! There were two outlets available, and a small rectangular fire pit with a grate on top. There are a few water pumps and vault toilets within walking distance, but we were pretty close to the shower house, which had stalls for toilets and showers. The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!

    It rained a ton during our trip so we didn’t explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity.

  • Nadiehsda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    We came for a weekend… Stayed nearly 2 weeks! Oak Lake RV Resort is where family memories are made.

    6 people, 1 pup & a 44.4' Keystone Sprinter... Oak Lake RV Resort handled it all with ease & gave us the BEST camping trip ever! 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. Where else does that??

    We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend. We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more!!Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s’mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!

    Rebecca deserves a huge shoutout for going above & beyond! Tom & Marianne, the owners, are amazing hosts who clearly pour their hearts into making Oak Lake special. Even the coin operated laundry was a lifesaver & convinced us we need a washer/dryer in our camper for future impromptu stays 😂.

    We’re already talking about being put on the list for a seasonal site for next year bc we know we’ll be back again & again. Oak Lake RV Resort is Newton County’s hidden gem!!! If you’re searching for fun, hospitality & true family camping memories... THIS is the place!! Hands down, every time.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

  • Kevin B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Camp Sullivan

    Enjoyed the camping experience

    Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there


Guide to Hammond

Campers seeking outdoor accommodations near Hammond, Indiana find options concentrated around the Lake Michigan shoreline and inland forest preserves. Proximity to both Chicago metropolitan areas and natural landscapes creates a distinctive camping environment with seasonal considerations affecting both availability and experience. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F while spring and fall fluctuate between 40-70°F with increased precipitation.

What to do

Trail exploration at Indiana Dunes State Park: Located about 30 minutes from Hammond, the park features multiple hiking options beyond the popular beachfront. A visitor notes, "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot" (Indiana Dunes State Park Campground).

Explore mountain biking trails: Camp Bullfrog Lake, about 45 minutes west of Hammond, offers extensive trail systems. "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" (Camp Bullfrog Lake).

Kayaking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer water recreation options. At Bullfrog Lake, "The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around."

What campers like

Diverse camping setups: Michigan City Campground offers premium sites with extensive amenities. One camper mentioned, "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" (Michigan City Campground).

Security measures: For those concerned about safety at camping spots near Hammond, several campgrounds feature controlled access. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool."

Well-maintained facilities: Sand Creek Campground, about 25 minutes from Hammond, receives praise for cleanliness. "The tent sites were nice and located around the perimeter. Very clean and newly renovated. My boys did like that there was a very nice pool" (Sand Creek Campground).

What you should know

Train and traffic noise: Most camping areas near Hammond experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Dunewood Campground, campers note: "Could hear Trains throughout the night. Great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink. great shading from trees and very green!" (Dunewood Campground).

Gate operation hours: Several campgrounds implement night security measures with restricted gate access. At Camp Sullivan, "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting."

Insects can be intense: Mosquitoes are particularly prevalent in wooded areas. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly campgrounds: Several locations offer specialized family amenities. "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)" (Camp Sullivan).

Activity planning: Morning is best for beach trips to avoid crowds. "The beach and dunes are the star of this show, but the campground is a good supporting actor."

Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide a transition experience. Lakeshore Camp Resort offers "cute cottages you can rent" that provide shelter during inclement weather.

Tips from RVers

Hookup limitations: Many RV sites lack full hookups. "It was 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."

Site selection considerations: At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, "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" (Indiana Dunes State Park Campground).

Dump station availability: Michigan City Campground provides full-service options. "There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids. Most sites include sewer, water, electric (up to 50 amps) and wireless internet."

Frequently Asked Questions

What RV parks and rental options are available in Hammond, Indiana?

Lakeshore Camp Resort is a prominent RV option near Hammond with easy access to Indiana Dunes National Park. The resort features a small lake for swimming and fishing, multiple bathroom and shower facilities, and sites for both short-term and long-term stays. Many spaces accommodate permanent or monthly campers. For other options, Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park in nearby Portage offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water hookups, and big-rig-friendly spaces. For overnight parking, Cracker Barrel — Hammond provides a convenient option for RVers needing a quick stopover.

What amenities do Hammond campgrounds offer compared to other camping areas?

Campgrounds near Hammond offer diverse amenities. Michigan City Campground provides premium 90-foot pull-through sites with 50A service, water and sewer hookups, exceptional WiFi, and large cement patios. It's gated for security and beautifully maintained. Sand Creek Campground offers more secluded camping with private tent sites nestled among trees, newer clean bathrooms, and proximity to the Dunes. The Hammond area campgrounds generally provide good access to Lake Michigan's recreational opportunities while maintaining clean facilities, though amenities vary significantly between public and private operations.

Where are the best camping sites near Hammond, Indiana?

The best camping near Hammond includes Indiana Dunes National Park Campground and Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Both offer excellent access to Lake Michigan and extensive trail systems. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground features recently renovated sites and facilities, while Dunewood tends to be less crowded than other options in the area. The national park location provides numerous hiking opportunities along the lakeshore, with trails that are conveniently interconnected.