RV camping near Leesburg, Indiana offers travelers access to the rural heartland where farmlands surround the small lakes region of northern Indiana. Located at approximately 840 feet above sea level, this area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers ideal for water recreation and colorful fall camping. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making most campgrounds in the region seasonal operations that close from November through April.
What to do
Explore Amish Country: Visit the Shipshewana area, located about 20 miles from Leesburg. "Close to Shipshewana with very kind Amish community folks," notes a visitor to Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney. The resort serves as a convenient base for experiencing local culture.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at campgrounds with private lakes or river access. "There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used" at Thousand Trails Bear Cave, where camping on the banks of the St. Joseph River provides good angling prospects according to reviewers.
Bike the Pumpkinvine Trail: This paved path connects several towns in the region. "We enjoyed our stay, two days of riding on the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail," says a camper who stayed at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park, noting its convenient access to this popular cycling route.
Visit the RV Museum: The RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart showcases the history of recreational vehicles. "Near Elkhart and the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum. Great place to visit, really interesting," shares a camper from Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney.
What campers like
Secluded natural settings: Campers appreciate sites that offer privacy and nature views. At Thousand Trails Bear Cave, a reviewer noted it's "a nice, family friendly campground" with "a creek that meanders through it" and riverfront access for boating and fishing.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," reports a visitor to Maple Ridge Campground, where recent renovations have impressed guests.
Family activities: Campgrounds with planned events for children stand out. "The owners are very nice & plan activities every weekend for the kids," notes a Maple Ridge Campground reviewer, while another mentions "Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears."
Shopping access: The proximity to Amish markets and flea markets ranks high with visitors. A camper at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park mentioned they enjoyed "Easy access to flea market" and appreciated how the campground positioned them for exploring local shopping.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Leesburg region close during winter months. According to reviews, Thousand Trails Bear Cave operates from "May 1 to October 31," which aligns with typical seasonal patterns in the area.
Limited cell service: Some rural campgrounds have connectivity challenges. At Thousand Trails Bear Cave, a camper reported "No internet, no cell service" though paid wifi options are available at some locations for around $5-6 daily.
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects some campgrounds. A review for Elkhart RV Resort warns: "There is an active railroad nearby this campground. 4 Trains woke us up during the night."
Early check-in fees: Some parks charge for arriving before official check-in times. A reviewer at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park mentioned "a $15 (plus tax) charge for 45 minutes early check-in" even when the park was mostly empty.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for summer visits. "Nice pool and playground. Campsites are setup for two pull through a side by side with shared yard in the middle," explains a Maple Ridge Campground visitor, making it convenient for families traveling together.
Kid-focused amenities: Look for parks with dedicated play areas and recreation. "There is a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall" at Thousand Trails Bear Cave, according to a recent visitor.
Game room access: Indoor recreation options provide entertainment during rainy days. Elkhart RV Resort offers "free ping pong, air hockey, foose ball, and all the classic camping games to check out," reports a camper who appreciated these amenities.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds feature unique opportunities to interact with animals. "There is a donkey to pet" at Elkhart RV Resort according to one family, while others mention opportunities to see horses and farm animals at campgrounds bordering Amish farmland.
Tips from RVers
Site arrangement considerations: RVers should note the setup at some parks creates unusual proximity to neighbors. At Shipshewana RV Park, "alternating pull-through sites which means you will be facing your neighbor's door not their street side of the camper" which "makes for great buddy sites" for travelers camping together.
Hookup variations: Electrical service types differ between parks and even within campgrounds. One reviewer at Twin Mills noted different amperage options available: "Most of the sites are full hook up, some have 30amp and some have 50amp."
Extension cord requirements: Some parks have unusual utility placement. At Wabash City RV Park, a camper noted "You will need a long (30-40'?) extension cord suited to your amperage to reach the pedestal" due to the layout of electrical connections.
Affordable alternatives: Budget-conscious RVers can find basic options with good value. "A quick stop with utilities for cheap" is how one visitor described Wabash City RV Park, noting "$16/night with electric and water it's worth at least three stars."
