Cabin camping options extend from Monterey to surrounding areas within 20-30 miles, with most facilities open from April through October. Tippecanoe River State Park offers year-round cabin availability with seasonal restrictions. During summer months, temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures that many campers find ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails and firetower views: Tippecanoe River State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails accessible directly from the camping areas. One camper noted, "They aren't really anything special and aren't really well marked either. There is a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short." The trails range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging routes through wooded areas.
Fishing opportunities: France Park provides fishing access with crystal clear quarry waters. According to a visitor, "We took a 5 mile hike and she spent the day on the beach and swimming in the crystal clear lake. There are sooooo many trails and they are very well maintained, although if it's rained, there may be standing water in some of the lower areas." The fishing lake is separate from the swimming quarry.
Water activities: Swimming beaches, kayaking and canoeing options are available at multiple locations. At Rising Sun Campground, a camper mentioned, "Located right on the beautiful Tippecanoe River with float, canoe, and kayak rentals." The river access points are typically well-maintained and offer moderate currents suitable for beginners.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Potato Creek State Park Campground receives praise for its peaceful environment. A visitor shared, "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." The back sites provide more separation between campsites.
Clean facilities: Maple Ridge Campground maintains well-kept washrooms and amenities. One camper stated, "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground." Another mentioned, "The bath house is newly remodeled and very clean, nice in ground pool area & the camp store has plenty of treats for the kids."
Natural features: Several campgrounds offer unique natural settings. At France Park, a visitor remarked, "The quarry, wow! It was beyond stunning and never what I expected to see in an Indiana park. We had an amazing hike, checking out the quarry. We ventured out on one more trail and saw the waterfall but headed to our site to set up camp afterwards."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many cabin camping options near Monterey have limited availability during colder months. At Michigan City Campground, cabins remain available year-round. "Michigan City Campground is open year round. They also have many monthly sites available with winter water, as well as seasonal and overnight spots," noted one visitor.
Reservation requirements: For weekend and holiday stays, advance booking is essential. A Broken Aarow camper mentioned, "We were told that they don't take reservations, but it turns out they do if you want a spot with sewer in a different area. Those spots are taken up pretty much right away at the beginning of the year, mostly for the holiday dates and Halloween."
Insect precautions: Bug spray is necessary, especially in summer months. A visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park commented, "The mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May & they were just getting going. Spring & late fall would be a good time to visit."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some cabins provide direct access to play areas. At Tippecanoe River State Park, "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground & you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site & you can watch your children from your site."
Weekend activities: Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake offers structured entertainment for children. A visitor shared, "This place was awesome! They have done a lot of updates since we camped there years ago! Great new pool and pool house, FUN petting zoo, gemstone mining for the kids, hayrides, as well as crafts and a scavenger hunt."
Swimming options: Multiple locations feature pools or swimming areas. At Michigan City Campground, "There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids." The pool areas typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some facilities offering extended hours during peak summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections vary by location. At Michigan City Campground, "Most sites include sewer, water, electric (up to 50 amps) and wireless internet." Sites with all three hookups typically cost $10-15 more per night than electric-only sites.
Site dimensions: Pay attention to pad size when booking cabin or RV sites. A visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park observed, "There's gravel for your camper pad. Not dirt. The best sites are site 1- right on the main drag, but the most private site in the place. If you enjoy watching the rigs come in & leave, this is your site! Vegetation separates you from site 2. Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground."
Utility concerns: Extension cords may be needed at some locations. At Potato Creek State Park, a camper advised, "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up. With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes."
