Camping options near De Motte, Indiana range from basic tent sites to luxury outdoor accommodations within a 40-mile radius. The area sits on glacial till plain with elevations averaging 670 feet above sea level, creating a mix of wetland and forest camping environments. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Lake activities for all ages: At Caboose Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and water recreation on a clean, well-maintained lake. "Great spot to pull off the main road and let the kids out and burn off some energy. Beautiful lake! Just what we needed on a long road trip," writes Tommy S., who appreciated the convenient location.
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: Indiana Dunes State Park offers multiple trail options from easy walks to more challenging terrain. "The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," notes Christy Y. The park's trail system includes routes through dunes, wetlands and forested areas.
Mountain biking opportunities: Potato Creek State Park features beginner-friendly mountain bike trails alongside paved paths for casual riders. Frank M. mentions, "With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes." The park maintains separate trail systems for hikers and cyclists.
Beach swimming access: At Dunewood Campground, campers can reach Lake Michigan beaches with a short drive. As Katie O. explains, "Loved the proximity of this campground to Lake Michigan! The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful." Access points typically include parking areas and bathhouse facilities during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary by site: Michigan City Campground offers secure camping with controlled entry. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," shares Beth B., who stayed in the group tent camping area and appreciated the spacious sites.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at campgrounds throughout the region. Preston H. noted at Oak Lake RV Resort, "Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom." Many established campgrounds in the area provide modern restroom facilities with hot water.
Shaded camping areas: Several campgrounds offer tree coverage for summer heat relief. At Tippecanoe River State Park, Susan C. appreciated the "Large sites with lots of trees," making it comfortable even during warmer months. Mature forest canopy at established campgrounds provides natural cooling during peak summer temperatures.
Seasonal events and activities: Organized campground activities enhance the camping experience, especially during summer holidays. At Sun Aura, Jerry L. mentions, "The events were great for Labor Day weekend," noting how the structured activities improved their first-time visit to an adults-only resort.
What you should know
Train noise affects some locations: Campgrounds near railway lines experience intermittent noise disruptions. Kaley A. shares about Indiana Dunes State Park: "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." Consider bringing earplugs if staying at locations near rail corridors.
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Most campgrounds near De Motte require advance booking during peak summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Off-season camping offers greater flexibility with same-day availability common at state parks and wildlife areas.
Tent camping restrictions at some sites: Some private campgrounds have shifted away from accommodating tent campers. Susan C. noted this change at Oak Lake RV Resort: "This campground was bought out by Zeeman and just announced that tents and pop up campers are NOT allowed. This is ridiculous seeing how I have camped here 35+ years."
Mosquito preparedness essential: The wetland geography around De Motte creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions. At Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area, primitive camping provides a basic experience with some natural challenges. Adam M. explains, "It's $12 a night. Pretty clean campground run by the DNR, lots of acreage to explore. No real trails but if you don't mind roughing it plenty to explore."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: When selecting a site at Oak Lake RV Resort, consider locations near play areas. Sadie H. shares, "Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp." Request sites with direct playground access when making reservations.
Swimming options vary by location: Caboose Lake Campground offers structured water activities beyond basic swimming. Riley J. notes, "Super clean water and beach area with inflatables- so fun! They do require wristbands which cost $10 a day but that includes bumper boats and unlimited paddle boat rentals."
Bring bikes for additional recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated cycling paths appropriate for children. At Potato Creek State Park, biking trails complement other family activities, with Jason S. stating, "Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, what more could you ask for. We love it here."
Check beach conditions before swimming: Indiana Dunes' beaches occasionally have safety advisories. Veronica S. at Dunewood Campground appreciated that "Management was very attentive to making sure the campground was quiet and calm," creating a family-friendly atmosphere, while Anna G. cautions, "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies widely: While glamping near De Motte, Indiana offers numerous full-hookup options, state park campgrounds typically provide electric-only connections. At Potato Creek State Park, Sue B. notes, "Nice campground and spacious campsites," but RVers should arrive with fresh water tanks filled.
Extra-long power cords needed at some parks: Frank M. advises about Potato Creek State Park: "Be ready with backup cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up." Measure your standard power cord and pack extensions if needed.
Premium sites offer concrete pads: For longer stays, Michigan City Campground provides upgraded site options. Craig C. describes, "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit."
Ease of access considerations: Entrance roads and site configurations vary significantly between campgrounds. Ken P. notes that Oak Lake RV Resort is "Gated for security and plenty of shade," while Jeffrey S. appreciated that "Two dump stations made wait minimal" at Indiana Dunes State Park.
