RV camping near Mishawaka, Indiana offers options within a 30-mile radius of the city center. The region features flat to gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging between 700-850 feet above sea level. Summers typically bring humid conditions with temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall campers can expect more moderate temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Thousand Trails Bear Cave provides access to the St. Joseph River where campers can fish from docks. "There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan," notes Jerry S.
Cave exploration: Visit the natural cave formation at Thousand Trails Bear Cave for a unique geological experience. "There is a naturally formed cave that you can go down into for a small fee. A variety of things to do from fishing to the game room," shares Ryan H.
Cycling trails: The Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park provides convenient access to regional biking routes. "This campground was very convenient to the town of Shipshewanna, Amish Country and the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail. We enjoyed our stay, two days of riding on the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail," reports Cindy B.
Cultural excursions: Visit nearby Amish communities and attractions. "We spent a wonderful experience! Our site was backed up to a horse pasture (in the evening, the horses came over for a quick visit!)," writes Lisa D. about Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park. "Easy access to the Shipshewana Flea Market and E&S Sales (greatest bulk food shopping EVER!)"
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Maple Ridge Campground receives consistent praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "Great quiet place to get away from town," notes Kyrik 0. The campground maintains family-friendly activities while preserving a relaxed setting.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Mishawaka area maintain high cleanliness standards. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," states one reviewer about Maple Ridge Campground. Similarly, at Elkhart Campground, guests appreciate "Laundry room, pool and bathrooms were very clean."
Family activities: Weekend programming keeps younger campers entertained. "Owner operator campground where the family knows how to cater to the kids. Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears," reports Tony G. about Maple Ridge Campground.
Convenient location: Many motorhome travelers appreciate the proximity to RV manufacturers and service centers. "We came to Elkhart for a week to have servicing done on our 5th wheel. The campground was easy to find and pull into just a short drive off the highway," notes MickandKarla W. about Elkhart Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature close quarters between RV sites. "The regular sites are very close together in this CG. The deluxe sites give you a cement pad and better spacing but are still fairly close together," reports MickandKarla W. about Elkhart Campground.
Cell service considerations: Mobile connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. At Bear Cave RV Campground, one camper noted: "No internet, no cell service. If you want wifi then its 5.95 per day or if your here for a week + then 34.95 for the month up to 4 devices is your best bet."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Thousand Trails Bear Cave operates "May 1 to October 31" while Maple Ridge Campground runs from "Apr 15 - Oct 15." Plan accordingly if visiting during shoulder seasons.
Tank service options: For extended stays without sewer hookups, understand the pump-out policies. "There is an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around," notes a camper at Bear Cave RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Elkhart RV Resort offers swimming facilities for children. "The kids used the pool, which was a bit cold but large," reports Joan, though noting the temperature might require adjustment for comfort.
Game facilities: Recreation halls provide entertainment during inclement weather. "Free pong pong, air hockey, foose ball, and all the classic camping games to check out," mentions JD C. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Playground options: Many campgrounds maintain play structures for younger visitors. "This campground is close to home so we spent a couple days here so the kids could play while I worked... the amenities for kids are great," shares Brian H. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds accommodate family pets, though with varying facilities. "Large dog park, but was far from our site," notes one Elkhart Campground visitor, suggesting families with pets should request sites near designated exercise areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For larger motorhomes, request specific areas within campgrounds. "We had a nice big pull through site," reports Stacy E. about Elkhart Campground, indicating some sections accommodate larger rigs better than others.
Extended-stay services: RVers planning longer visits should inquire about tank servicing options. At Bear Cave RV Campground, "if you do not get a full hook up, you have to pay $15 to get pumped out," according to Dawn T.
Level site availability: Some campgrounds require additional work for stabilization. "Site needed leveling, had no shade at all and was close to major hwy," reports deb K. about Elkhart Campground, suggesting bringing leveling blocks.
Utility placement: At Elkhart Campground, "The utilities were well placed on the pad and the water pressure was good at around 50 psi," reports MickandKarla W., though noting sites can be tight for larger rigs with slides extended.
