Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore spans 15,000 acres along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, where camping options range from secluded forested sites to locations with easy lake access. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Cell service remains strong throughout most of the region due to proximity to Chicago and surrounding urban areas.
What to do
Boat access fishing: At Bear Cave RV Campground, campers can fish along the St. Joseph River which borders the property. "The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan. There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used," notes one visitor. The campground provides shoreline access and boat launch facilities.
Beach swimming: Michigan City's shoreline offers sandy beaches within 5 miles of Michigan City Campground. "It is nestled on 40 acres just 5 miles from Lake Michigan, 10 miles from Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and only 50 miles east of Chicago," explains one camper. The campground provides convenient access to multiple beach areas.
Hiking trails: The park features distinctive dune landscapes with marked trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. "If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list," shares a visitor about the trails near Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secure gated facilities: Security features at several campgrounds provide peace of mind. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," mentions a camper about Michigan City Campground. Gates with code systems prevent unauthorized access.
Lake and pond swimming: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park offers lakefront access with additional recreational amenities. "You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," reports a camper. Many sites include swimming options beyond Lake Michigan.
Chicago skyline views: On clear evenings, campers can see Chicago's skyline across Lake Michigan from certain vantage points. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," notes one visitor about Indiana Dunes State Park, adding a unique element to sunset viewing.
What you should know
Limited off-season facilities: Winter camping options exist but with reduced services. "Michigan City Campground is open year round. They also have many monthly sites available with winter water, as well as seasonal and overnight spots," explains one reviewer, though most other campgrounds close between October and April.
Train noise disruptions: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby rail lines. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," warns a tent camper about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Light sleepers should bring earplugs.
Weekend reservation challenges: Summer weekends fill quickly, particularly at lakefront sites. "We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend," shares a visitor about Oak Lake RV Resort, demonstrating how flexibility with dates can sometimes work in campers' favor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Sites near playgrounds offer convenient supervision for parents with young children. "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp," reports a family staying at Oak Lake RV Resort.
Swimming safety awareness: Lake Michigan can present hazards including rip currents. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," cautions a visitor, emphasizing the importance of water safety, particularly with children.
Recreation facilities: Several campgrounds offer organized activities and facilities. "There is swimming pool and a game room, and a small store with the essentials, and propane," describes a camper at Michigan City Campground, highlighting amenities that keep children entertained during downtime.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: RV sites with adequate turning radius and hookups vary across facilities. "We were in a VERY small site (as advertised) and folks were packed in stacked," notes one RVer about Michigan City Campground, suggesting advance research for larger vehicles.
Premium sites for longer stays: Full-hookup premium sites provide comfort for extended visits. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained," reports an RVer at Michigan City Campground, highlighting the benefit of upgraded sites for those planning longer stays.
Easy interstate access: Love's RV Stop provides convenient overnight accommodations for travelers along I-65. "Easy on and off I 65 yet barely any traffic noise. It just opened and it is well designed. The check in online is very easy," shares a visitor. This option works well for those primarily seeking a convenient stopover rather than a destination campground.
