Glamping accommodations near Lowell, Indiana offer camping experiences throughout northwestern Indiana's primarily flat terrain, with elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, making May through September the prime camping season. Winter camping options are limited, with only select campgrounds like Michigan City Campground remaining open year-round.
What to do
Hike the dunes challenge: Indiana Dunes State Park features the popular 3-dune challenge trail that tests hikers of all abilities. Camper Kaley A. notes, "Really great park! It had a lot of really nice trails that were fairly easy to follow for being sand," while mentioning the beach is "well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours."
Fishing opportunities: Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area offers productive fishing spots on its lake. Andy M. explains, "It's $12 a night. Pretty clean campground run by the DNR, lots of acreage to explore... We bring our kayaks." The electric-motor-only lake policy keeps the waters peaceful.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake offers exceptional mountain biking access. Josh M. highlights, "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." The trail network attracts serious riders with top-end equipment throughout the season.
Beach swimming: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground provides direct access to Lake Michigan beaches. Jackie H. recommends, "There is a nice nature trail to the beach. If you are able, do the 3 dune challenge. It wasn't easy for this old body, but I was glad to have marked it off my list." On clear evenings, visitors can see Chicago's skyline across the lake.
What campers like
Clean bathhouses: Dunewood Campground receives high marks for its facilities. Katherine T. shares, "Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus. The hosts were friendly." The camp's dishwashing station distinguishes it from other area campgrounds.
Family activities: Michigan City Campground offers structured recreation for families. Beth B. appreciates the "secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean," making it particularly suitable for families with young children needing controlled environments.
Fall foliage viewing: Seasonal color changes create spectacular camping backdrops in autumn. Robert B. from Indiana Dunes State Park notes, "We arrived on a fall night, after the sun had set and we were thrilled to wake up to such an amazing display of Northern Indiana fall foliage. Campsites, facilities and trails were all super well maintained."
Site assistance: Oak Lake RV Resort provides exceptional setup help. Preston H. reports, "Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom." This additional support benefits first-time RVers or those with limited mobility.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Several campgrounds near transportation corridors experience significant noise. Truly W. from Dunewood Campground warns, "Could hear Trains throughout the night," while acknowledging the "great facility with showers, water fountains, and a camp sink."
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense at exposed campsites. Katie O. from Dunewood shares, "Loved the proximity of this campground to Lake Michigan! The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful... Would come back in the future!" She titled her review "Brutally hot but otherwise nice."
Security features: Lakeshore Camp Resort employs security measures at its entrance. Ken P. appreciates that it's a "Great park just off interstate. Gated for security and plenty of shade. Great family setting and staff." The gated entry restricts public access.
Site spacing variations: Campgrounds in the region vary significantly in site density. Camper Rino S. at Lakeshore Camp Resort notes candidly, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Camp Sullivan offers family-friendly play areas. Sadie H. from Oak Lake Family Campgrounds 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."
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation spots cater to different preferences. Dane S. from Camp Sullivan notes, "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods). Highly recommend."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning activities for children. Jackie H. mentions at Indiana Dunes, "The nature center is right next to the campground," making it convenient for families to participate in organized programs without lengthy travel between activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across campgrounds. Scott B. from Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area advises, "Some sites are not level so you have to pay attention. It's $12 a nite and it's all primitive so you can have a generator."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with all utilities are limited. Craig C. from Michigan City Campground recommends their "premium sites which were 90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit."
Generator policies: Noise regulations affect power generation options. Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area allows generator use, which Scott B. confirms noting "it's all primitive so you can have a generator," but cautions "some people use noisy ones," affecting the camping experience of nearby sites.
