Cabins near Lowell, Indiana sit within an area characterized by gently rolling terrain typical of northern Indiana's glacial plain topography, with elevations ranging from 650-710 feet above sea level. The region features a continental climate with four distinct seasons, including warm summers reaching mid-80s (°F) and cold winters with average temperatures in the 20s. Most cabin rental properties remain open from mid-April through October, with limited winterized options available during the colder months.
What to do
Hiking at Sand Creek Campground: Located 27 miles from Lowell, this campground offers access to multiple trail systems through wooded areas. "We came in without a reservation and got a nice spot for a camper, showers were decent and hosts were nice!" notes Maya L. at Sand Creek Campground.
Water activities at Lakeshore Camp Resort: The resort provides swimming options with a pool and lake access about 40 minutes from Lowell. A camper reports, "We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars." Water toys are available for an additional fee.
Mountain biking at Camp Bullfrog Lake: The extensive trail system makes this location particularly appealing for cyclists. "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," writes Josh M. from Camp Bullfrog Lake. The campground also offers kayak rentals for $15 per hour including life vests.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Michigan City Campground: This gated campground maintains well-kept facilities throughout. "Bathrooms were really clean but small. The only complaint of the weekend was the garbage pickup at 11pm, very loud, and the fireworks being set off until after midnight," mentions Beth B. at Michigan City Campground.
Privacy between campsites: Several cabins offer more secluded options compared to standard campsites. At Kankakee River State Park, campers appreciate the layout: "Spacious sites with lush jungle-like greenery grown in between, which provides perfect privacy. Easy access to water pump. Have to drive to get to the toilet/shower station though."
Free firewood provisions: Oak Lake RV Resort provides complimentary firewood with stays. One camper describes their experience: "We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend. We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties book quickly during peak season (June-August). At Pioneer Family Campground, one camper notes: "It is a very nice campground. It could use some updates. More water and electric sites. Bathrooms are clean but small. The dump station was full and we couldn't dump our camper. The staff is very nice but not always at the camp store."
Noise levels: Train traffic affects several campgrounds in the region. At Camp Sullivan, a visitor reports: "The safety issues have me seriously concerned. They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning! I had to search for someone to let me out for my meeting."
Weather preparedness: Northern Indiana experiences significant weather variations between seasons. Some cabins offer heating but limited air conditioning. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, one camper warns: "There is NO shade during the day. None at all due to the trees within the campground being small."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment with varying quality. Pioneer Family Campground offers "a small playground, and a pond for swimming and fishing. This campground gets stars from me for the gorgeous and peaceful surroundings, as well as very friendly staff."
Swimming options: Look for properties with swimming facilities for children. One family at Oak Lake RV Resort shares: "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."
Safety features: Security measures vary between locations. At Michigan City Campground, a parent appreciated that it's a "gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many cabin and RV sites have limited space. One RVer at Lakeshore Camp Resort cautions: "Easy enough to find. Checkin was a breeze. The pool is the size of a backyard pool. My biggest complaint is the size of the sites. We are on top of each other. I have a 26 foot class c and the pad for the adjacent site is at my tailgate."
Access for larger rigs: Some properties can accommodate larger vehicles while others have restrictions. At Camp Sullivan, a camper advises: "When you are checking in with trailer make sure you don't turn left to the office. It will be hard to turn around. I recommend stopping when you get to the fork in the road as the RV sites are to the right."
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary substantially between sites. One RVer at Camp Bullfrog Lake notes: "Really nice campground. No water hookups. Water on site but, not ideal. Really nice views. Very quiet. Super friendly staff and neighbors."
