Campgrounds near Michigan City, Indiana sit in a transitional area where the woodlands of northern Indiana meet Lake Michigan's shoreline. Most sites are situated within 50 miles of Lake Michigan at elevations averaging 585 to 650 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs April through October with July average temperatures reaching 84°F and lows around 63°F. Winter camping options exist but are limited due to seasonal closures and snow accumulation from December through March.
What to do
Hiking trails and dunes exploration: At Dunewood Campground, you can access both woodland paths and sand dune trails within the national park. "There's trails and sand dunes to climb, clean beach, really clean camp ground with newer clean bathrooms," notes Manuel T. Sites are located approximately 1.5 miles from Lake Michigan beaches.
Beach swimming with lifeguards: Indiana Dunes State Park Campground maintains a staffed beach during summer months. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake. It had really nice bathroom facilities, and changing room facilities there," shares Kaley A.
Fishing opportunities: Clear Lake at Fuller's Resort and Campground provides waterfront fishing access about 35 minutes northeast of Michigan City. The lake has crystal clear water as its name suggests, though as Sarah K. notes: "No luck catching fish, and it didn't look like anyone else was either. The setting was great, and we would definitely stay here again without hesitation."
Biking excursions: The Dunes-Kankakee trail connects to several regional pathways. Jeffrey S. explains that Indiana Dunes State Park offers "the Dunes-Kankakee bike trail that leads from the park and ties to the Calumet trail that also connects to several other trails offering miles of bike trail options."
What campers like
Secure access systems: Enhanced security measures provide peace of mind. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," notes Beth B. about her stay at Michigan City Campground, appreciating the controlled entry that keeps non-campers out.
Shower facilities: Most campgrounds maintain shower buildings with varying levels of cleanliness. "It was also the nicest showers that I've been to to date," writes Kaley A. about facilities at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, while Katherine T. from Dunewood Campground confirms: "Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus."
Tent camping amenities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated tent areas with specific conveniences. At Bear Cave RV Campground, campers find "electric & water (including at tent sites)" according to Gay G., who adds that the campground features "a real bear cave you can tour in (free), a creek that meanders through it."
Chicago skyline views: On clear evenings, some lakefront campsites offer distant city views. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake," notes Anna G. about the vantage points from Indiana Dunes State Park.
What you should know
Train noise disruptions: Proximity to rail lines affects several campgrounds in the region. "Really great park! ... 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," warns Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park. Katherine T. confirms similar issues at Dunewood: "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service."
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes and biting flies can be problematic, especially in summer months. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," reports Katrin M. after camping at Dunewood Campground. Katie O. adds: "There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground."
Limited sewer hookups: Several campgrounds reserve full-hookup sites for seasonal campers. At Bear Cave RV Campground, Jack notes, "Most of the full hookups are taken first by the annuals. Sucks really but they do have an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around."
Weekend crowding: Expect significantly higher occupancy Friday through Sunday. Kirk B. from Indiana Dunes State Park mentions, "The beach, the trails, bike trails. There is everything to do here, it does not disappoint. Well the weekend traffic can be a bummer."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenient supervision. At Potato Creek State Park Campground, Frank M. recommends: "We recommend securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust."
Off-peak beach visits: Schedule water activities on weekdays for fewer crowds. "Go during the week if you prefer less crowds," advises Steve G. about Fuller's Resort and Campground, noting it offers "the perfect mix of primitive and RV camping. Nice store that serves food and drinks. Beautiful beach with crystal clear water."
Nature center programming: Park naturalist events provide educational opportunities. "They had one of the nicer programs that I have been to in the state," notes Kaley A. about the Indiana Dunes visitor center programs.
Family-friendly glamping options: For those seeking comfortable accommodations, Potato Creek State Park offers cabin options. "My wife and I come here every year since purchasing our travel trailer. With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes," says Frank M., highlighting amenities suited for family glamping close to Michigan City, Indiana.
Tips from RVers
Utility requirements: Prepare for varied hookup access. Frank M. at Potato Creek State Park warns: "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up." Jeffrey S. notes that at Indiana Dunes: "Only offered electric service. All pads seemed nice and level."
Dump station timing: Weekend departures create congestion at service points. Jeffrey S. observed at Indiana Dunes State Park: "Two dump stations made wait minimal" which helps during busy checkout periods.
Premium site selection: Look for concrete pads with extra amenities at certain campgrounds. Craig C. shares his experience: "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite."
Water tank preparation: Some campgrounds lack water connections. "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," suggests Greg S. about glamping at Indiana Dunes State Park near Michigan City, Indiana.
