Camping near Lake Village, Indiana offers primitive and developed site options within northwest Indiana's glacially-formed landscape. The region features sandy soils that drain well after rainstorms, allowing for comfortable camping conditions even following wet weather. Visitors can access multiple small lakes and the Kankakee River system for water recreation, with many campgrounds maintaining seasonal operations from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails: Explore Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area's extensive acreage with minimal development. "Not much to do but fish. No hook ups but they do have a dump station. Use to have a shower house but it was closed when we were there," notes Debbie B., highlighting the primitive nature of the experience. The area features sandy soil that drains well after rain.
Mountain biking: Access miles of singletrack trails at Camp Bullfrog Lake in nearby Illinois. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and miles of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains Josh M. The campground is particularly popular among serious cyclists, with one camper noting "we saw several vehicles carrying top of the line bikes in and out all day."
Fishing: Cast for largemouth bass at Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area's lake. "There are monster bass in this lake, I have got a 19-inch largemouth in 2017," shares Xiaojian J. The fishing opportunities extend across several small lakes throughout the region, with electric motor boats permitted on some waterways.
What campers like
Lake swimming: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers beach access with lifeguarded swimming areas during summer months. "The beach and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype," shares Greg S. The park maintains proper facilities for swimmers including changing rooms and bathhouse areas.
Quiet camping experience: Tippecanoe River State Park Campground provides a more secluded glamping option near Lake Village. "This is the place to go for a quiet simple camping trip. There is no pool or camp store and cell service is limited so it is a great place to get away from it all," writes Dawn K. The campground maintains electric hookups for comfort while preserving a natural setting.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at campgrounds in the region. At Indiana Dunes State Park, Jon S. notes, "All pads seemed nice and level. Only offered electric service. Beach access is close by." The campground layout provides adequate separation between sites while maintaining accessibility to common areas.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Lake Village area experiences significant seasonal changes affecting camping comfort. "We camped here in 2020 we had no problems the staff were great the place was clean. Things changed for me I had surgery and couldn't sit up the camper so we decided to find a camp site close to home this year," writes Andy at Oak Lake RV Resort. Weather patterns can shift quickly near Lake Michigan.
Noise factors: Train tracks near multiple campgrounds cause periodic disruptions. Regarding Dunewood Campground, Veronica S. mentions, "Management was very attentive to making sure the campground was quiet and calm." However, other reviewers note train noise at various properties throughout the night.
Water quality: Potable water varies between campgrounds, with some offering limited access. "Do remember to bring power source for your phone such as a power bank and water to drink, the water there taste funny," advises Xiaojian J. about Willow Slough. Water hookups are not available at all sites, so filling tanks before arrival is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Caboose Lake Campground provides structured recreation for children. "If you have kids or teens this is your spot. 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," reports Riley J. The campground maintains scheduled activities throughout peak season.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. At Tippecanoe River State Park, Cynthia K. advises, "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground& you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site."
Site selection: When glamping near Lake Village with children, choose locations with appropriate amenities. "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," shares Sadie H. about Oak Lake Family Campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Plan for sanitation needs as many campgrounds have limited facilities. "There's 2 sides at the dump station. In the campground there's 2 comfort stations," notes Cynthia K. regarding Tippecanoe River State Park. Some sites offer full hookups while others require self-contained operation.
Site dimensions: Dunewood Campground provides adequately sized spaces for most rigs. Katherine T. observes, "The sites are decently private with good tent pads. Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus." Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables.
Leveling requirements: At Tippecanoe River, Cynthia K. notes, "There's gravel for your camper pad. Not dirt." At Willow Slough, Scott B. warns, "some sites are not level so you have to pay attention." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most regional campgrounds.
