Best Tent Camping near Middlebury, IN
Several tent campgrounds provide camping options near Middlebury, Indiana within a reasonable driving distance. Shady Point Campground and Lakeside Campground in Jones, Michigan offer tent sites approximately 30 miles from Middlebury. Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Howe, Indiana provides more rustic tent camping about 15 miles from Middlebury with sites suitable for traditional tent setups.
Tent sites at most campgrounds in the region feature varying amenities. Shady Point Campground includes drinking water, electric hookups and shower facilities, making it suitable for campers seeking more developed tent sites. Lakeside Campground offers electric hookups, picnic tables, and water access, though without drinking water directly at the tent sites. Pigeon River offers more primitive tent camping with only basic toilet facilities, requiring campers to bring their own water supplies and pack out trash. Access to these tent campgrounds varies, with both drive-in and boat-in options available at several locations.
Tent camping in the Middlebury area provides varied experiences based on location. Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area offers walk-in tent sites with more seclusion, giving tent campers a quieter experience than developed campgrounds. Sites along water features allow for fishing and paddling opportunities. A visitor commented that Pigeon River offers "kayaking through winding rivers and lakes in Northern Indiana" with shuttle services available for paddlers. Seasonal campers occupy many sites at Lakeside Campground, but the management accommodates tent campers when space allows. Tree coverage varies between campgrounds, with some offering shaded tent sites and others more exposed locations, so bringing additional shade structures during summer months is advisable for tent campers.