RV camping near Merrillville, Indiana provides access to both wooded natural settings and convenient highway-accessible options. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 85°F and cold winters that can drop below 20°F, making April through October the primary camping season. Most campsites sit on relatively flat terrain at elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level, with some locations near water features.
What to do
Beach activities at Lake Michigan: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers access to swimming and sunset viewing opportunities at Lake Michigan. "The lake and dunes are spectacular and live up to the hype. The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," shared Greg S.
Fishing access: Lake Alexander RV Park provides fishing opportunities on the Kankakee River. "Lake Alexander RV Park is a quiet, spacious, family owned and operated campground located near Momence, Illinois, within a 1-hour drive of Chicago. The camp is 120 acres of natural beauty on the banks of the Kankakee River," notes Iris A.
Nature trails: Cedar Lake offers walking paths through wooded areas. "There was a nice big field for the dog to run. Nature trails and of course Cedar Lake. People seemed friendly," reported Christopher G. about his stay at Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park.
What campers like
Security features: Love's RV Stop-Demotte provides gated access for increased security. Steven C. mentioned, "Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids."
Cell service reliability: Reception is strongest near major highways and deteriorates in rural locations. "We decided to go here because we wanted to go camping with a friend in IN and meet halfway. Our friend ended up not being able to meet us but we still went, and I'm glad we did!" shared Maaya Y. about Lake Alexander RV Park.
Water activities: Oak Lake RV Resort features a swimming pond with recreational options. One camper, Nadiehsda B., described their experience: "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential for most parks in the region, particularly on weekends. "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!" noted a visitor at Oak Lake RV Resort.
Site surface variations: Different parks offer various site surfaces from concrete to dirt. According to Alan I. at Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park, "This place is more of a trailer park for more long term residents. They don't provide any showers toilets or wifi. As well every spot has cemented runners which is a nice touch but you must back into them."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby rail lines. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long. If you're a heavy sleeper and can deal with that, you'll be just fine," warned Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational facilities: Campgrounds with play areas keep children entertained. Holly S. shared about Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park: "We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. Theres a playground as well."
Water recreation options: Swimming areas provide summer cooling opportunities. Sadie H. noted about Oak Lake RV Resort, "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."
Proximity to attractions: Some campgrounds offer access to local attractions within walking distance. "The beach, the trails, bike trails. There is everything to do here, it does not disappoint. Well the weekend traffic can be a bummer," mentioned Kirk B. about Indiana Dunes State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort offers easy access for larger rigs. TK n E. commented, "Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues. Partial hookups (sewer just outside of park behind hotel). $46/night (+fees) for a pull-through spot."
Seasonal water availability: Some parks shut off water during colder months. David N. warns about Hollywood Casino RV Resort: "No water before 4/15. Not a bad spot. Average and relatively inexpensive."
Electric service reliability: Check for electrical issues at campsites. Steven C. noted at Love's RV Stop, "The only complaint I had is the site we were at showed a ground fault on the 50amp Circuit so I had to use the 30 amp circuit but it's Nov so no need to run dual ACs minor issue but still make sure your using your EPM devices."
