Tent camping near Hobart, Indiana offers both proximity to Lake Michigan's sandy shoreline and access to inland forest preserves. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 84°F and winter lows reaching 17°F. Most tent camping options are concentrated north and east of Hobart, with several walk-in sites requiring campers to carry gear up to 100 yards from parking areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Mac Finn's Landing, campers can access prime fishing spots along the Kankakee River. "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River... Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers," reports one visitor who appreciated the kayak-friendly launch areas.
Trail exploration: The tent camping areas at Davis Creek Campground connect to extensive trail systems suitable for hiking and running. A regular visitor notes, "I have been here several times in high school and in my adult years. Lots of what I did was participate in cross country practice here... it's very well kept, and there is good access to water."
Beach activities: The Central Avenue Walk-in Sites provide tent campers with convenient beach access along Lake Michigan. Site selection impacts beach walk times, with sites 2-5 located further along the trail than site 1.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Central Avenue Walk-in Sites offer secluded tent camping with strategic site placement. According to one camper, "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."
Small campground experience: Intimate camping settings like Mac Finn's Landing maintain a quieter atmosphere with limited site numbers. The campground offers just 4 total sites, preventing overcrowding even during peak season.
Urban-adjacent options: Some campers appreciate the accessibility of Camp Shabbona Woods, despite urban sounds. A recent visitor noted, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok."
What you should know
Site access restrictions: Several campgrounds have specific entrance policies. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm," according to a recent camper, which can impact late arrivals or those planning evening activities away from camp.
Limited facilities: While some sites offer basic amenities, Illinois and Michigan Canal backpack camping provides a more primitive experience with no toilets, trash service, or drinking water. Campers must pack in all water and pack out all waste.
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary significantly between locations. Camp Shabbona Woods permits campfires while Central Avenue Walk-in Sites prohibits them entirely. Campers should verify current fire regulations before arrival, especially during dry summer months.
Vehicle proximity: At several locations, vehicles cannot be parked directly at campsites. One camper at Camp Shabbona Woods pointed out, "can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite," which affects gear transport and site selection strategy.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Campside Michigan provides amenities that support first-time tent campers, including toilets, showers, and picnic tables at each site. The campground's small size (4 sites) reduces noise and traffic concerns for families with young children.
Bathroom access: When camping with children, bathroom facilities become especially important. Camp Shabbona Woods offers maintained restroom facilities, as one camper mentioned: "The bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly."
Shade considerations: Young children often need protection from direct sun. At Camp Shabbona Woods, one visitor observed that "The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing," requiring families to bring additional sun protection during summer months.
Wildlife education: Kankakee River State Park provides interpretive signage and ranger programs during summer months, offering educational opportunities for children to learn about local ecosystems while camping at Davis Creek.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most tent camping locations near Hobart have few or no accommodations for RVs. Mac Finn's Landing technically permits RVs but lacks hookups and has limited space for larger vehicles.
Alternatives nearby: RVers seeking full hookups should consider commercial campgrounds in Michigan City or the Indiana Dunes State Park campground, which offers electric hookups approximately 20 miles northeast of Hobart.
Boondocking considerations: For self-contained units, Mac Finn's Landing offers a primitive camping experience with river access. An experienced visitor recommends, "Kayak launch friendly!" access points that work well for RVers who bring portable watercraft.
