Camping sites near Ligonier, Indiana range from primitive tent areas to full-service RV parks situated across northern Indiana's glacier-carved terrain. The region sits at approximately 850-950 feet above sea level, creating rolling landscapes with numerous lakes and wetlands. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, with summer highs averaging in the 80s.
What to do
Kayaking connected waterways: Chain O'Lakes State Park offers nine connected lakes ideal for paddling enthusiasts. "Chain is perfect for kayaking and canoeing with 9 connected lakes and 11 total. A couple lakes are perfect for boat fishing as long as you have an electric motor only," notes a visitor at Chain O'Lakes State Park Campground.
Biking the Pumpkinvine Trail: Access this popular paved trail from campgrounds in the Shipshewana area. "This campground was very convenient to the town of Shipshewanna, Amish Country and the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail. We enjoyed our stay, two days of riding on the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail," explains one camper at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park.
Fishing local lakes: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing access with varying regulations. "Friendly people and good fishing," reports a visitor at Atwood Lake Campground, which maintains a stocked fishing pond for campers.
What campers like
Amish country experiences: The region offers authentic interaction with Amish communities. "Our site was backed up to a horse pasture (in the evening, the horses came over for a quick visit!) Easy access to the Shipshewana Flea Market and E&S Sales (greatest bulk food shopping EVER!)" notes a camper at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park.
Family-oriented activities: Ebys Pines provides extensive recreational options beyond camping. "Tons of stuff to do for campers of all ages. Roller skating, mini bowling, laser tag, and an arcade at the fun center. There was a corn hole tournament, a golf cart parade, a wagon ride, and a live band," shares one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Very nice campground with level sites and air conditioned bathrooms! That is amazing in the summer. They have trails that are a nice walk for the dogs and a pond to catch and release fish," reports a visitor at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney.
What you should know
Train noise affects several campgrounds: Multiple sites near Ligonier have active railroad tracks nearby. "The campground is clean and well kept. The trains are kinda annoying. It's easy to get around to all the great area and explore," notes one camper at Elkhart County Fairgrounds.
Site spacing varies dramatically: Some campgrounds have tight quarters while others offer more privacy. "RV Sites are stacked on each other. We chose 306 and it was ok by the pond. No misquitos. Our friends had 310 and there was barely room to put their awning out," explains a camper at Ebys Pines.
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds close between October and April. "We were only here for 1 night. Wish we were able to stay longer. Will definitely be returning," notes a visitor, highlighting the importance of checking operational dates.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for summer cooling: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," one camper at Chain O'Lakes notes about their experience.
Activity scheduling matters: Check event calendars before booking. "There was a corn hole tournament, a golf cart parade, a wagon ride, and a live band," reports an Ebys Pines visitor, demonstrating the scheduled activities available.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Hidden Diamonds Park offers nature observation areas. "Such a gem! Tiny municipal campground, but part of a much larger recreation area. Everything seems new or at least well maintained," notes a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations essential: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "We were given a nice welcome packet at check-in with visitor guides for the area," mentions a camper, highlighting the organized reservation system at many campgrounds.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Sites are all very nice and pool was really clean. The dog park was a nice added bonus," notes a visitor at Ebys Pines, but others mention terrain variations.
Electrical capacity awareness: While many sites advertise hookups, amperage varies by campground. "We stayed on the deluxe patio sites a couple of times when they were available. They have patio table & chairs on extra wide concrete pad, gas grill, fire pit & seating area in back," explains a visitor describing premium options available.
