Camping spots near Merrillville, Indiana cluster primarily in northwest Indiana where the terrain transitions from suburban areas to Lake Michigan shoreline. Overnight temperatures can drop below 60°F even in summer months due to the lake effect, requiring appropriate sleeping gear regardless of season. Road access from Merrillville to most campgrounds requires 30-45 minutes of driving time, with traffic increasing significantly on summer weekends.
What to do
Climb sand dunes and swim: Dunewood Campground offers access to challenging dune climbs and swimming areas. "Theres trails and sand dunes to climb clean beach really clean camp ground with newer clean bathrooms," notes Manuel T. about Dunewood Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park provides lake access with fishing opportunities. "There was a nice big field for the dog to run. Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly," reports Christopher G. about the Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
Rock climbing activities: Organized climbing activities are available at Camp Sullivan. "The bathsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. Lots of nature, chill vibe," according to Veronica S. who camped at Camp Sullivan.
Paddle sports: Several locations offer paddling options on inland lakes. "Very relaxing, and very quiet. Great shade from tall trees, and a large pond to Fisher paddle boat," mentions Maurice about Emerald Trails Campground.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Indiana Dunes State Park campground offers recently upgraded facilities. "The campground itself is pretty typical of a state park- decent spacing, level sites and well kept. It is electric only but that didn't really bother us," explains Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Proximity to Chicago skyline views: On clear days, campers can see Chicago across the lake. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," Anna G. reports about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Security features: Some campgrounds offer gated security for peace of mind. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," notes Shane M. about Michigan City Campground.
Convenient group camping areas: Certain campgrounds accommodate larger groups effectively. "Stayed here 2 nights in the group tent camping area. Plenty of space to spread out and good firepits. Love the secure entrance and key card access," reports Beth B. about Michigan City Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train noise affects many campgrounds in the region. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," mentions Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground.
Site selection strategy: Sand Creek offers varied site options for different preferences. "The tent sites were very private as we were the only ones there for the night. Plenty of space tucked among the trees," notes Danielle C. about Sand Creek Campground.
Gate closure policies: Some campgrounds lock gates overnight which impacts late arrivals or early departures. "They lock the gates (both of them!) to the campground with a PADLOCK at night until 7 in the morning," warns Lisa S. about Camp Sullivan.
Beach conditions: Sand quality varies between locations. "The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," shares Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly play areas. "There's a playground as well. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds including access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open," holly S. mentions about Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
Swimming safety awareness: Lake Michigan can present swimming hazards. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," cautions Anna G. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Urban camping option: Camp Shabbona Woods offers an introduction to camping close to urban amenities. "Camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping. The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing," explains Scott M. about urban Camp Shabbona Woods.
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures can be challenging for tent campers. "Loved the proximity of this campground to Lake Michigan! The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," shares Katie O. about Dunewood Campground.
Tips from RVers
Premium site options: Michigan City Campground offers upgraded RV sites. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," reports Erin B.
Hook-up availability: Electric services vary between campgrounds. "25$ a night no electric much but a park pass also for 25$," notes Hannah R. about Dunewood Campground.
Water tank management: Water hookups are limited at certain locations. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," advises Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Leveling conditions: Site conditions for RVs are generally favorable. "The sight was spacious with plenty of room in between sites. The sight had 50 amp electric hook ups but no water or sewer connections, and we knew that going in. We had a back in sight #69," describes Chris M. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
