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Best Campgrounds near Marion, IN

262 Reviews

Campgrounds near Marion, Indiana range from developed state park facilities to more rustic recreation areas, with several options situated around lakes and rivers. Mississinewa Lake Campground offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities about 15 miles north of Marion. Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area at Salamonie Lake, approximately 20 miles northeast of Marion, provides year-round camping with tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. The region includes both lakeside sites with water views and more wooded, secluded camping areas depending on the specific campground and location.

Access to most campgrounds requires driving on paved roads, with many sites offering electric hookups and water access. Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences, with most campgrounds operating year-round but offering different amenities depending on the season. Mississinewa Lake Campground and Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area both provide reservable sites, though availability may be limited during summer months and holidays. Facilities typically include drinking water, sanitary dump stations, and toilets, with many also offering showers. A visitor noted, "This is one of the best parks we have been to in Indiana. We Volunteer all over our the USA at State Parks and National Forest. So we know what to look for. Friendly people to answer questions plenty to do. And affordable."

Campers report high satisfaction with lakeside camping options in the region. Several campgrounds feature sites with views of Mississinewa Lake or Salamonie Lake, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and water recreation. Hidden Lake Campground and Wildwood Outdoor Escape offer additional options with cabin accommodations for those seeking more comfort. The campground layouts vary across the region, with some offering more privacy than others. According to one visitor at Mississinewa Lake, "If you want woodsy, private sites, don't come here. Most are grassy and sunny. There are many areas where the sites back up close to each other." Many campgrounds in the area maintain clean facilities with regular maintenance of restrooms and showers, though amenities vary by location. Wildlife encounters, particularly with raccoons, are mentioned in several reviews as part of the camping experience.

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Best Camping Sites Near Marion, Indiana (70)

    1. Mississinewa Lake Campground

    24 Reviews
    Somerset, IN
    20 miles
    +1 (765) 473-6528

    $19 - $55 / night

    "We went swimming in the lake. We also had fun trying to outsmart the raccoons that lived under the mini cabins. They were everywhere!"

    "I have been to 9 other Indiana State parks, this one is in the top half. Great sites and clean. Large clean lake with beach. Lots of trails and many views. Staff is very friendly."

    2. Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area Campgrounds — Salamonie Lake

    11 Reviews
    Andrews, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 468-2125

    $12 - $32 / night

    "This is one of the best parks we have been to in Indiana. We Volunteer all over our the USA at State Parks and National Forest. So we know what to look for."

    "Sites 221- 243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access. 

    Sites 228& 232 have sites with good access to the lake. Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service."

    3. Mar-Brook Camp Ground

    1 Review
    Upland, IN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 674-4383

    4. Wildwood Outdoor Escape

    3 Reviews
    Hartford City, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 348-2100

    "This was our second stay here…campground is surrounded by corn fields but park itself is quite picturesque with mature trees, a lake, and very well-manicured grounds."

    5. Lost Bridge West

    4 Reviews
    Andrews, IN
    16 miles
    Website

    "If you can get a lake view site enjoy. Some spot are far away from the shower houses but you can drive to them. Nice marina with a great store and boat rentals"

    "Nice level lots, beach, playgrounds, 15 miles of hiking/walking. Gorgeous lake sunrise/sunsets. Lots of eagle sightings! Plenty of deer. Leaves are beautiful in fall"

    6. Hidden Lake Campground

    1 Review
    Jonesboro, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 948-4862

    $25 - $36 / night

    7. Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake

    11 Reviews
    Huntington, IN
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 468-2165

    "It was very relaxing and I also enjoyed walking on different paths to enjoy nature as it was. I would highly recommend this campground to anyone. It is also family friended"

    "Kil-so-qauh, used to be a little hidden gem right outside of town but has turned into quite a popular place, but for good reason."

    8. Salamonie River State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Lagro, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 246-5421

    $13 - $15 / night

    "As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty."

    9. Mounds State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Anderson, IN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (765) 642-6627

    $20 - $32 / night

    "Nice state park in Indiana. Only offering electric hook up. Water locations could block traffic if camper does not park accurately. Store at Check in offered necessities. Hiking trails were nice."

    "This is a nice state park outside of Anderson In. It has nice walking trails and is on the White river. There is a gorgeous swimming pool. The bath house is clean, but not the best."

    10. Kilsoquah Camp

    7 Reviews
    Huntington, IN
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 468-2165

    $12 - $15 / night

    "Some sites around the back are more private than others. There are not trails to hike but some space to bike. Access to the lake is quite a distance from the actual campground."

    "We found a cozy camp site along the back ring near the river.

    We didn’t have a view but there was an area to go walk over to that had a very picturesque."

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Recent Camping Photos near Marion, IN

50 Photos of 70 Marion Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Marion, IN

262 Reviews of 70 Marion Campgrounds

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake

    No Lake access from campground

    Forest settings, electricity for only $15/night. Lots of traffic in and out. A lot of older rigs.

  • David C.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Mystic Waters Campground

    Great campground for RVs and cabins

    This is a great campground for RVs and cabins, but unfortunately not for tents as the highway 69 is too noisy. Also there are not a lot of trees.

  • Matthew H.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Art's Country Park

    Arts country Park

    Quiet,kid friendly, fur babies friendly (dogs),nice place, friendly and accommodating staff, fishing and swimming,hot showers and lots of activities in summer 👍

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Summit Lake State Park Campground

    Peaceful park and great hiking trails

    Although we only spent one night here during the week, the campground seemed very peaceful and quiet, even though there were quite a few campers. Sites 1 through 74 seem to be a lot more level and larger, but they were in a sort of an open area with very little shade. The rest of the sites were fairly unlevel, but were in shaded areas. I would think a rig more than 31 or 32 feet long would have difficulty maneuvering around the curve at the end of the second loop. We are a 30ft. Fifth wheel and it was pretty tight for us. Lots of trees. The showers were your typical camp showers not great but not horrible. There was a large lake that one could enjoy fishing on. Also some great hiking trails in the area.

  • L
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Johnny Appleseed Campground

    Great location, but no privacy

    The campground is almost in the middle of Fort Wayne. Most of the sites are very close and no vegetation to allow any privacy. On the positive side, the bathrooms were very nice and clean. The staff was also very helpful.

  • J
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Mississinewa Lake Campground

    Great for families

    This is a popular spot for locals and I was lucky to get the last electric site with less than a days notice. Every other site seemed to have a large gathering of family or friends. The restrooms/ showers are quite dated and sparse. I only have one bar with Verizon.

  • Don H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2025

    Wabash City RV Park

    A quick stop with utilities for cheap

    I give this three stars not because there's nothing really wrong about it. It's just a grassy parking lot with utilities and a corner grassy knoll with shade. $16/night with electric and water it's worth at least three stars.

    You may want to use GPS coordinates to the entrance.

    THE QUIRKS You MUST check in at the Water Treatment Plant by 4PM. You do not need to have picked a site, yet. Complete the typical paperwork and you'll be given keys to unlock the electrical box and a key to turn on the water. They keys work at any site.

    (See the pic showing the location of the RV park (red) and the Water Treatment Plant (blue).

    When you check out, leave the keys in the box at the exit.

    Our electrical pedestal had no 30amp receptacle. If you have a 30amp plug, bring a 50amp adapter. There are two 20amp outlets available.

    The pedestals are between sites, which aren't really close. You will need a long (30-40'?) extension cord suited to your amperage to reach the pedestal. The water is clear and tastes great.

    Trash and tank dump are available at the Water Treatment Plant. Be aware their hours are 7AM- 4PM Monday-Friday and 7AM- 3PM Saturday.

    Basic toilets are located just outside the "park" at the dead end of S. Carol. That's also where the walking path along the river is.

  • Stephanie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2025

    Summit Lake State Park Campground

    Good for hammocks

    I hammock camp so I'm always looking for places that have trees and are pretty. When I arrived I was a little worried because the first loop was flat, grassy and open with very few trees in the camp spots good for hammocks. The second loop had what I was looking for. Stayed in 76, beautiful spot with lots of tree cover. Campground hosts were very nice. Only downside is that sites are very close together and it's a popular campground (though I easily found a spot without a reservation on a Wednesday) so there isn't much privacy.

Guide to Marion

Camping near Marion, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to bustling campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the chance to kayak on the lakes. One visitor at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown." This park is perfect for those who love water activities.
  • Hiking Trails: If you’re into hiking, Mounds State Park Campground has great trails. A reviewer noted, "The trails are great for hiking and running," making it a solid choice for those who want to explore on foot.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Ouabache State Park Campground, you can check out the bison exhibit. One camper shared, "The bison enclosure is always fun to check out," adding a unique twist to your camping experience.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at White River Campground said, "Restrooms are very clean and comfortable," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites. A review for Summit Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Several campsites offer full shade and most are level," making it a comfortable spot for families.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Indianapolis KOA noted, "Just kind and warm place," which can make a big difference in your stay.

What you should know:

  • Crowded Beaches: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area remarked, "It was overly crowded," so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be aware that some areas have poor reception. A camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "No Verizon signal," but noted that T-Mobile worked fine.
  • Variable Campsite Quality: Not all sites are created equal. A review for Ouabache State Park Campground stated, "The campsites are variable, size and privacy definitely depends on the site you book," so check the specifics before reserving.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. The Indianapolis KOA has a water park and farm animals, making it a fun spot for families. One parent said, "The water park is so fun."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Summit Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Campground was crowded, but very quiet," which is great for families with young children.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. A camper at White River Campground appreciated the nearby market for convenience.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Ouabache State Park Campground noted, "Camp sites are tiny," which can be a problem for larger rigs.
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you want all the comforts, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at White River Campground mentioned, "We had full hookup site," which made their stay easier.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Indiana weather can be unpredictable. A visitor at Mounds State Park Campground advised, "Be alert to the weather," so keep an eye on forecasts before you head out.

Camping around Marion, Indiana, has its perks and quirks. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, there’s a spot for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Marion, Indiana?

Summit Lake State Park Campground is highly rated with two distinct camping loops - one open with level sites and another wooded loop with more private settings. The park features a lake with a beach area and educational programs. Mounds State Park Campground offers electric hookups and excellent hiking trails. For those seeking a quieter experience, Westwood Park provides a small, clean campground with access to one of the clearest lakes in central Indiana (no gas motors allowed). Other notable options include France Park for primitive camping with exploring opportunities, and Salamonie River State Forest, described as a "hidden gem" among Indiana parks with seasonal variety on its trails.

How much does camping near Marion, Indiana cost?

Camping costs near Marion, Indiana vary by location and amenities. Mississinewa Lake Campground typically charges around $25 per night plus a $7 park entry fee for sites with 30/50 amp electric hookups and water access. White River Campground is known for offering good value with free hot showers and WiFi included in their reasonable rates. For more budget-conscious options, consider the primitive campsites at France Park or the non-electric sites at state parks which generally cost less. State park campgrounds in the region usually range from $20-30 per night for electric sites, with additional entrance fees sometimes required. Reservations for state parks can be made online, often with a small reservation fee added to the base camping rate.

What amenities are available at Marion, Indiana campgrounds?

Camp Timber Lake on the outskirts of Fort Wayne offers clean facilities, pet-friendly policies (though pets aren't allowed in the water), and is known for its well-maintained grounds. Ouabache State Park Campground provides campsites with varied shade coverage, fire pits, and road access, though site layouts can sometimes place amenities close to roads. Many campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, water access points, clean shower houses, and restroom facilities. Some state parks like Mississinewa feature swimming beaches, hiking trails, and dump stations for RVs. Certain campgrounds provide special amenities like free WiFi (White River), educational programs, and proximity to local attractions. Most campgrounds in the region maintain clean facilities with varying levels of site privacy and shade depending on the specific loop or area.

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