Camping options near La Porte, Indiana range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks within 30 miles of the city. The terrain features a mix of woodland, prairie, and lake access with elevations averaging 700-800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions between 50-70°F.
What to do
Beach access at Warren Dunes State Park: Located about 25 miles from La Porte, Warren Dunes offers miles of dog-friendly beach access. "Huge, beautiful dunes on the beach. Alas, the beach showed heavy use with sand that was just a bit grittier than shores we visited in the northern mitten," notes Richard E. about Warren Dunes State Park Campground.
Climb sand formations: Tackle the Three Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park. "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," shares Greg S. from Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lake access within walking distance of campsites. "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," explains Erin B. about Michigan City Campground's amenities.
Mountain biking at Potato Creek: The state park features dedicated trails for riders of various skill levels. "Bike trails, hiking trails, fishing, beach fun for the whole family. The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," reports Jason S. who stayed at Potato Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer sites with natural privacy barriers. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. Lots of nature, chill vibe. Great experience!" shares Veronica S. about Dunewood Campground.
Clean shower facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses receive positive mentions from campers. "The bathhouse was a little outdated, but clean. It was actually one of the nicer showers that I've been to to date," notes Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Security features: Gated entrances provide added peace of mind for campers with valuables. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," reports Shane M. who stayed at Michigan City Campground.
Lake Michigan sunsets: Beach access campgrounds offer spectacular evening views. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," mentions Anna G. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Multiple campgrounds near La Porte sit close to active 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. If you're a heavy sleeper and you can deal with that, you'll be just fine," warns Kaley A.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campgrounds in the region offer differing levels of separation between camping spots. "Very close quarters camping. Friendly," notes Amritasri F. about Michigan City Campground, while Sand Creek offers "the tent sites were very private as we were the only ones there for the night."
Seasonal operations: Opening dates and availability differ across campgrounds. "Michigan City Campground is open year round. They also have many monthly sites available with winter water," explains Jennifer T.
Beach parking fees: Some lakefront campgrounds charge additional fees for beach access beyond camping costs. "The beach parking lot costs $15 but completely worth it!" reports Lee D. about Weko Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is a nice mixture of grassy, tree lined tent spots and more secluded wooded spots in the woods by the creek. The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and there was a pool, basketball court, volleyball court," explains Stefanie Z. about Sand Creek Campground.
Swimming options: Campgrounds with pools provide alternatives when beach conditions are unfavorable. "The kids had fun at the park and fishing. Everyone was super nice and inviting," reports Steve D. from Mini Mountain Campground.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds organize scheduled events for visitors. "One highlight, especially for kids is the Saturday night golf cart parade. After dark the campers with golf carts do a parade around the campground and toss candy," shares Ron L. about Last Resort Campground.
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes and other insects are common throughout the area. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," notes Katrin M. about Dunewood Campground, so pack appropriate repellent for summer camping.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The only challenge is that most of the camp spots are not level so bring your levelers!" advises Lee D. about Weko Beach Campground.
Hookup limitations: Water and electricity availability varies across campgrounds. "It is 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," explains Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Premium site advantages: Some campgrounds offer upgraded sites with full hookups. "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," shares Craig C.
Dump station wait times: Popular campgrounds may have lines during peak checkout periods. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," notes Jeffrey S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
