Tent camping opportunities near Howe, Indiana extend beyond the immediate area into neighboring Michigan, with several campgrounds offering rustic sites within a 30-minute drive. The region features glacial lakes and gently rolling terrain, with elevations ranging from 800-950 feet above sea level. Weather conditions typically include warm summers with occasional thunderstorms and mild spring and fall seasons ideal for camping.
What to do
Seasonal swimming access: Shady Point Campground in Jones, Michigan provides lake swimming during summer months. A camper noted, "It sits on Bair Lake and was great for swimming. The bathroom and showers were well maintained."
Basketball and games: Shady Point Campground offers recreational facilities beyond natural attractions. According to Nicole P., "This is a campground that is mostly seasonal campers. It had playgrounds and basketball court and a small 'game' room."
Water sports equipment: Many campers bring their own watercraft, but some campgrounds offer rentals or access points. Whitley K. mentions about Pigeon River, "The shuttle service is convenient and not overly expensive. It doesn't offer the greatest views but offers a great time on the water with friends or family."
What campers like
Well-stocked camp store: Shady Point Campground maintains supplies for campers who forget essentials. A visitor commented, "There was also a well stocked store with very reasonable prices."
Friendly staff assistance: Circle B RV Park receives positive feedback for maintenance and atmosphere. Jeffrey Y. states, "Great campground, very well maintained, lots to do, great atmosphere."
Accommodating management: Lakeside Campground in Jones, Michigan works with travelers even during busy periods. Noel L. reports, "Owners were super nice and found room for us for one night layover."
What you should know
Seasonal camper population: Several campgrounds in the region primarily serve seasonal campers rather than short-term visitors. A Lakeside Campground reviewer noted, "Campground is all seasonal campers now."
Variable water access: While some campgrounds provide direct water access, others require driving to boat launches or recreation areas. Some sites at Circle B RV Park and Cabins offer activities but limited water access compared to lakefront properties.
Limited restroom facilities: Vault toilets are common at primitive sites, while developed campgrounds typically provide flush toilets and shower buildings. Pack accordingly for primitive locations, as drinking water access varies significantly between properties.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds typically include play structures for children. Nicole P. mentioned that Shady Point "had playgrounds and basketball court and a small 'game' room" which can keep children entertained during downtime.
Consider short-term stays: Four-night stays work well for families testing campgrounds. A family reported about Shady Point Campground, "Family spent 4 nights here and the staff was extremely accommodating."
Select calm environments: Some campgrounds maintain quieter atmospheres suitable for families with young children. Sharlyn O. observed at Shady Point, "Was in a pull behind. Everything was easy and calm. Kids loves it. No problems."
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: Many campgrounds near Howe have limited space for larger rigs, with few accommodating big RVs. Some sites at Goff Lake Campground can handle larger setups with full hookups including water, electric and sewer connections.
Hookup availability: Electric sites are available at several campgrounds for tent campers wanting basic power access. Water hookups require additional hose length at some locations due to spaced connections.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations for RVs, even if full sewer hookups aren't available at individual sites. This allows for longer stays without leaving to find dump facilities.
