Best Campgrounds near Mishawaka, IN

Campgrounds surrounding Mishawaka, Indiana range from state parks to private resorts, with most facilities located within a 30-mile radius of the city. Potato Creek State Park Campground in North Liberty offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations with year-round availability. Several mixed-use campgrounds like Elkhart Campground and Elkhart RV Resort provide options for various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, and cabin rentals. The region includes both Indiana and Michigan campgrounds, with Warren Dunes State Park Campground and Spaulding Lake Campground offering additional options across the state line.

Many campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when facilities reach capacity. Road access is generally good with most sites accommodating both small vehicles and larger RVs. A camper noted, "Great walking trails, great for families with youngsters. Park activities and lots of trail walking. 25 mins away from South Bend/Mishawaka and 40 mins away from Elkhart." Seasonal operation varies by location, with some campgrounds like Elkhart Campground operating from April to November, while others such as Potato Creek State Park remain open year-round. Weather conditions are typical for the Midwest, with hot summers and cold winters limiting comfortable camping to spring through fall for most visitors.

Campers consistently rate water access and recreational opportunities as highlights when staying near Mishawaka. Lakes and water features appear in many campground names and descriptions, with Potato Creek State Park surrounding Worster Lake and several other facilities offering lake or river access. One visitor mentioned, "Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind. Definitely keep coming back!" Proximity to urban amenities is another advantage, with multiple reviews noting the convenience of reaching South Bend, Mishawaka, and Elkhart for supplies or attractions. Most campgrounds provide standard amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and bathhouses, though the quality and cleanliness of facilities varies. Train noise affects some locations, particularly those near Indiana Dunes National Park, which several reviewers mentioned as a consideration when selecting a campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Mishawaka, Indiana (114)

    1. Potato Creek State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 656-8186

    $20 - $90 / night

    "Great walking trails, great for families with youngsters. Park activities and lots of trail walking. 25 mins away from South Bend/Mishawaka and 40 mins away from Elkhart and there RV Hall of Fame."

    "I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean."

    2. Elkhart Campground

    11 Reviews
    Elkhart, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 264-2914

    "Elkhart Campground is great Clean , easy access, lots of pull through sites with full hook up - pool, Close to big lake too!!!"

    "Very clean, nice sized dog park, quiet and close to restaurants. If had an occasion to stay here again…we definitely would!"

    3. Elkhart RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    Granger, IN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 800-2069

    $39 - $47 / night

    "This campground is close to home so we spent a couple days here so the kids could play while I worked. All staff was extremely helpful and friendly from the minute we pulled in."

    "The sites were set with nice gravel onto a cement patio surrounded by large trees. So it had the nice feel of outside with no mud and dirt tracked into our pull through RV site."

    4. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance."

    "There are sand dunes in the park just walking distance from some campsites. You can climb these dunes to the beach ( a farther walk) or take a short drive. They have restrooms/showers."

    5. Spaulding Lake Campground

    6 Reviews
    Niles, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 684-1393

    "The surrounding area seems like the camp is in a bad location, but the bushes that surround the place block out all the noise."

    6. Maple Ridge Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 784-8532

    "Great quiet place to get away from town."

    7. Thousand Trails Bear Cave

    16 Reviews
    Buchanan, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "But even without the cave there was still a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall. Close to nearby Lake Michigan and beaches."

    "Close to Warren Dunes, peaceful, nice walking areas, pool and rec room. Bathrooms could use some love but otherwise peaceful and relaxing."

    8. Fuller's Resort and Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buchanan, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 695-3785

    "The acres has lots of sites tucked away in the woods and many out in the open sun too! Rental trailers and cabins right on the lake too. Great ice cream too. We will be back!"

    "There are showers, laundry, and better restroom facilities as short walk away. Mask wearing was very hit or miss.  Maybe 75% of out interactions with staff they wore a mask. "

    9. Pla-Mor Campground

    5 Reviews
    Bremen, IN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 546-3665

    $42 - $53 / night

    "We had used it as a location for our sons golf event in Plymouth. Easy to get to from 31 North. "

    "We always stay here as it is close to family. They have other activities they do each month and usually post about it on their facebook page.( Pla-Mor Campground)"

    10. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "There’s tons of trails to do along the lakeshore and none are really far from one another. I grew up in NWI so I didn’t camp in Indiana often but I did here and loved it!"

    "General: Dunewood campground is located within Indiana Dunes National Park, established in 2019 (The national seashore was established in the 1960s)."

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Recent Reviews near Mishawaka, IN

767 Reviews of 114 Mishawaka Campgrounds


  • Jessica D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Covert Park Beach & Campground

    Small, lakeside, chill

    This was our first time staying at Covert Park Beach + Campground. We stayed in site 52 with our 21 ft travel trailer. The site is a good size. Tree placement made it a little tricky to back into, but nothing crazy. We stayed Sunday to Saturday, so we got to see it at its bustling weekend peak and the quiet, cozy weekday vibe. Family friendly, dog friendly and kid friendly. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach, but there's a beach a few minutes down the road (Hagar Beach) where you can bring leashed dogs. Sunset views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clean and showers nice and hot. The two guys who were running the check-in and campground operations were super cool- they were the perfect mix of attentive and laid back. No sewer on campsites but there's a dump station when you enter/exit. Ice and firewood are abundantly available and can be delivered to your site. We loved our stay here. Tree cover is generous, and it really preserves the camping feel. Weekend crowd was fun, friendly and lots of locals. Would definitely stay again!

  • SkipperAllen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Shipshewana Campground South Park

    Nice stay

    Bathrooms clean Campground well maintained. Showers clean. Push button operation not temperature control little on the cold side for me.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Michigan City Campground

    66$ for a good overnight!

    Staying here started off as a last minute thing as we’re driving through and made no arrangements for overnight lodging. With our rooftop tent, staying here was no problem! There was water hookups and electricity if desired, although we didn’t use them.

    The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing.

    I do recommend this place, however, few things to know: the campground space is tight. You will be pretty close to people around you, many with kids. It seems kind of like a family retreat type of location and honestly? It’s a whole vibe and if that’s for you, then this place is too!

    #GoAnyway

  • Sarah and Philip H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Tippecanoe River Run

    Tippecanoe River Run

    Don’t think I’ve ever stayed anywhere so peaceful. Birds chirping, right on a nature spring, everyone is respectful but laid back,. Full hook ups and amazing stay.

  • G
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Weko Beach Campground

    Wonderful site, easy beach access

    Campground was clean, with trails leading directly to Weko beach with gorgeous walking paths. Highly recommend, definitely a hidden gem.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Clean and quiet

    The grounds were well kept and clean. Even though it was pretty booked when we were there it didn’t feel crowded. Overall pleasant experience.

  • Ray L.
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Bixler Lake Park & Campground

    Quiet.

    This is by far the place to just relax. It does have its moments..Holidays and special events. Even then campers here live by the lights out code. Been here nearly a month and definitely will be back.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Thousand Trails Bear Cave

    Cute, quiet campground

    We love this quaint little campground. Great clubhouse with library, air hockey, beautiful views, but most of the coin operated games were out of order. The cave was closed with no plan to reopen in 2025. But even without the cave there was still a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall. Close to nearby Lake Michigan and beaches. Great for a few nights and the weather was perfect!

  • Noel L.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Lakeside Campground

    Awesome campground

    Awesome campground. Campground is all seasonal campers now. Owners were super nice and found room for us for one night layover.


Guide to Mishawaka

Camping options near Mishawaka offer a mix of lakeside recreation and forested settings within 30-40 miles of the city. The region sits at approximately 725 feet elevation with the St. Joseph River flowing through the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at most mishawaka camping destinations.

What to do

Water activities on Worster Lake: At Potato Creek State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating on the electric-motor-only lake. A camper noted, "Hiking, biking swimming, fishing, what more could you ask for. We love it here."

Climb sand dunes: Warren Dunes State Park offers massive sand dunes reaching over 200 feet tall for hiking and exploration. One visitor shared, "We caught some sun at the beach after a quick sprint up the dunes (actually just the 8-year old climbed to the top - the parents were too hot and tired)."

Fishing in stocked ponds: Spaulding Lake Campground maintains three well-stocked fishing ponds where campers report good catches using live bait. A reviewer mentioned, "3 fishing ponds that are well stocked. Most lots pull thru and many shaded."

Miniature golf and recreation: Family activities abound at several campgrounds, with one camper at Pla-Mor Campground sharing, "Great campground for the family. Has in-ground pool, mini golf, small arcade room, camp store, playground and fishing."

What campers like

Privacy options: Campers appreciate sites with natural separation. At Maple Ridge Campground, most sites are full hookup with recent upgrades. A reviewer noted, "Great owners and almost all full hookup sites. Newly remodled bathhouse with laundry and also a heated pool."

Clean facilities: Many reviewers specifically mention bathroom cleanliness as a deciding factor. A camper at Pla-Mor Campground shared, "Clean bath house. Responsive on social media to questions. Have visited in July and September."

Beach access: Lake Michigan beaches rank high among camper preferences. A visitor to Warren Dunes State Park Campground explained, "Wonderful campground! Lots of shade and plenty of privacy between sites. The bathroom seemed newer with clean bathrooms and private shower stalls."

Natural water features: Beyond Lake Michigan, smaller lakes and rivers enhance the camping experience. At Bear Cave, a camper noted, "The resort sits on the St. Joseph river & this park has a boat ramp & dock for fishing. There is a gate that campers need a code to get into so it keeps out unwanted's."

What you should know

Train noise impacts certain locations: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise that may disturb light sleepers. A camper at Elkhart RV Resort warned, "There is an active railroad nearby this campground. 4 Trains woke us up during the night. I won't stay here again."

Site selection matters: At Potato Creek State Park, a camper advised, "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."

Seasonal restrictions: Water activities become limited outside summer months. At Fuller's Resort, the beaches close after Labor Day, and water is turned off at most campgrounds by mid-October to prevent freezing.

Mosquito preparation: Wetland areas require insect protection, especially in early summer. A Potato Creek visitor shared, "Natural wetlands abound, so definitely bring the mosquito spray."

Tips for camping with families

Beach day planning: Pack accordingly for sand dune exploration. A Warren Dunes visitor cautioned, "Beware, the sand does get HOT midday."

Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer nature programs from May through September. At Potato Creek, rangers lead weekend wildlife walks suitable for children 5 and up.

Playground accessibility: Fuller's Resort and Campground caters to children with special amenities. A camper shared, "The camp store is very cute and geared towards children with small candies and ice cream for them to purchase."

Activity schedules: Family-focused campgrounds organize weekend events. A visitor to Maple Ridge Campground mentioned, "Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears. Nice pool and playground."

Tips from RVers

Hookup lengths: Bring extra-long power cords and water hoses. A Potato Creek visitor advised, "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."

Campground access: Some locations have narrow entrance roads or limited turning space. At Dunewood Campground, large rigs should request sites closer to the entrance to avoid tight turns.

Site leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. A visitor to Elkhart Campground shared, "Site needed leveling, had no shade at all and was close to major hwy. The front and side sites seemed nicer and had ample shade with some concrete sites."

Travel distance within parks: Factor in internal travel time. As one Potato Creek camper noted, "Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds near Mishawaka, Indiana?

The closest campground to Mishawaka is Potato Creek State Park Campground, located just 25 minutes away. This park offers electric sites that are spacious and roomy, plus great walking trails ideal for families. For those willing to drive a bit further, Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground provides electric sites with water access nearby. Other options within driving distance include Elkhart RV Resort near Granger, Maple Ridge Campground near Lakeville, and Pla-Mor Campground in Bremen, all offering various amenities for RVs and tent campers.

Is dispersed camping available near Mishawaka?

Dispersed camping (free camping on public land without designated facilities) is extremely limited in the Mishawaka area and northern Indiana in general. Most camping in this region requires staying at established campgrounds with designated sites and fees. The Indiana Dunes area, including Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, offers camping options but does not permit dispersed camping. For true dispersed camping, you'll likely need to travel to national forests in southern Indiana or Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

What amenities are available at Mishawaka camping areas?

Camping areas near Mishawaka offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Michigan City Campground provides premium sites with 50A service, water, sewer connections, and exceptional WiFi, plus cement patios. Pike Lake County Campground in Warsaw offers shower and restroom facilities with lakeside sites for RVs, campers, and trailers. Most campgrounds in the region include electric hookups, with water available nearby if not at the site. Bathroom facilities vary by location, with newer campgrounds typically offering cleaner, more modern facilities. Many also feature hiking trails, swimming areas, and organized activities during peak season.