Camping near Lagro, Indiana centers on multiple reservoir recreation areas with terrain consisting of wooded highlands and accessible lake shores. The region sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level with average summer temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F. Fall camping season typically extends through late October with periodic frost after mid-September.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Short trails at Salamonie River State Forest provide access to small waterfalls. "Fun trails, small waterfalls, good fishing. As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty," notes a visitor.
Boating access: Water activities dominate recreation options at Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake where boat ramps remain open throughout the camping season. One visitor mentions, "Took a ride on the Harley Tuesday(late March 2021) and didn't know where I was. 75 miles from home and passed this place on my way to get fuel but wanted to come back and take a look. The view was amazing even with the lake drained."
Disc golf: Several courses exist within the recreation areas, with equipment rentals available at camp stores during peak season. "Disc golf, trails, store near the beach, cabin rentals," notes one camper about Mississinewa Lake facilities.
Bird watching: The reservoir edges provide habitat for eagles and migratory birds. "Nice place, there is gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though. Regular campground with pit toilets. Electric and primitive sites available. Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles," reports a visitor to Kil-So-Quah.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area Campgrounds receives positive feedback for its upkeep. "They have a awesome Mariana ppl are friendly clean showers bathrooms access to lake," writes one camper. Another notes, "This is one of the best parks we have been to in Indiana. We Volunteer all over our the USA at State Parks and National Forest. So we know what to look for. Friendly people to answer questions plenty to do. And affordable."
Budget-friendly options: Primitive camping areas offer low rates without reservation requirements. At Salamonie River State Forest, a camper mentions: "Primitive sites cost $13. No reservations, but sites seem readily available, even on weekends in the summer. Spacious sites. Fairly wooded. Firewood only available Mon - Friday 8-3."
Site selection: Certain site numbers receive specific praise for location advantages. For Mississinewa Lake Campground, a visitor notes: "Has a nice camp sites picnic area is large and shaded... also the camp store has ice wood... and long lanes for the great ice cream cones."
Buddy camping: Some campgrounds feature paired sites ideal for group camping. "Site 191 and 196 share grassy areas," mentions a camper at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Reservoir levels fluctuate significantly, affecting boat launches and swimming areas. "A lot of the campsites were closed due to flooding but we managed to have a site that was untouched. During a walk, we stumbled down to the reservoir. The view was incredible and eye opening to my daughter who has never seen the effects of flooding," reports a Lost Bridge West visitor.
Winter camping limitations: Camp Timber Lake remains open year-round with reduced services during cold months. "Winter camping so no showers/bathrooms. Great area, lots of wildlife. They have wifi (by the water tower) nice lake, some trails. Gravel lot, pretty level. Not sure what summer is like but winter camping was great," notes a Mississinewa Lake camper.
Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads with inconsistent grading. "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible. Some campsite s looked amazing and others looked to be in major need of some TLC. Most of the campsites were in need of a fresh layer of gravel for their parking pads," reports a Lost Bridge West camper.
Weekend management: Enforcement of quiet hours varies by location. "One thing we didn't like was the lack of DNR presence. Occasionally, during the day they drove by. They didn't prevent people from parking anywhere they wanted. We had a bad camping neighbor on Sat night who had a party until 4am. No one broke it up," notes a Lost Bridge West visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Wabash City RV Park offers affordable overnight rates with proximity to swimming areas. "Clean sites, definitely seemed geared towards rv/campers but we fit in with our tent. Amazing spot for stargazing. Local trails are abundant and vary in difficulty. The lake was gorgeous and easy to get to within the park," mentions a Mississinewa Lake visitor.
Playground locations: Multiple play areas exist throughout recreation areas. "Very nice campground. There are some spots with full hookups. Most are electric only. There are pit toilets, electric and non-electric sites. There are many sites which are pretty large. Some sites around the back are more private than others. There are not trails to hike but some space to bike," explains a Kilsoquah Camp visitor.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Some campgrounds maintain stricter noise control. "We really enjoy Mississinewa. The beach is always nice and clean and the campsites are large and accommodating for any type of camper. We've stayed twice over different holiday weekends and it's been quiet and no rowdy partying which is a plus for us since we have small children," shares a Mississinewa camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground provides full-service sites with varying proximity to bathhouses. "Typical state run campground. Some sites are very close together, while some offer a little more room. Sites 221-243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access. Sites 228 & 232 have sites with good access to the lake. Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service. Fill up on water at the water filling station before going to your site."
Dump station timing: High-use periods can create long waits for dumping facilities. "Down side is if you don't haul with water you better fill up at the full station when you see it cuz it gets busy. And when you are leaving there are 3 dump stations and it can get really really busy and long waits," warns a Mississinewa Lake camper.
Winter electrical access: Certain campgrounds maintain power throughout colder months. "Our electrical pedestal had no 30amp receptacle. If you have a 30amp plug, bring a 50amp adapter. There are two 20amp outlets available. The pedestals are between sites, which aren't really close. You will need a long (30-40'?) extension cord suited to your amperage to reach the pedestal," advises a Wabash City RV Park visitor.
