Camping options near Monterey, Indiana include a mix of private RV resorts and public state park facilities within 25 miles. The area sits at approximately 780 feet above sea level in the Tippecanoe River watershed, with camping season typically running April through October due to winter temperatures that regularly drop below freezing. Most campgrounds feature level sites with sandy loam soil that drains well after rain.
What to do
Swimming lake activities: Oak Lake RV Resort features a pond swimming area with an obstacle course that's popular with visitors. "Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!" shares one camper at Oak Lake RV Resort.
River adventures: The Tippecanoe River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. "This is a North Central State Park in Indiana. Not one of the better units, but it has some charms," notes a visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park Campground. "There's a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short," adds another camper.
Nearby attractions: Indiana Beach amusement park is just a short drive from some campgrounds. "A relaxing campground for the whole family. Swimming, camp fires, children parks, dog park, small trails, and only 10 minutes from Indiana beach. Love staying here," writes a visitor to Rvino - Lost Acres.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maple Ridge Campground earns consistent praise for cleanliness. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," notes one visitor to Maple Ridge Campground. Another adds, "This is an excellent family run campground. The bath house is newly remodeled and very clean."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds organize regular weekend activities. "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," explains a visitor to Maple Ridge Campground.
Quiet setting: Several campgrounds offer peaceful environments away from highway noise. "This campground has a private lake which is surrounded by farmland. Lots of primitive sites right next to the lake," shares a reviewer at Lakeside RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks in Monterey area close during winter. "Oak Lake RV Resort operates from April 15 to Oct 15," notes one camper. Some campgrounds like Tippecanoe River State Park remain open year-round.
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential during peak season. "We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend," explains a camper at Oak Lake RV Resort.
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes can be an issue in warmer months. "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," advises a visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites with direct playground views. "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," recommends a camper at Tippecanoe River State Park.
Swimming options: Many parks have swimming facilities for children. "Nice big sites, easy to get in and out. Sites are not marked very well though. Swimming lake is nice," notes a visitor to Oak Lake RV Resort.
Weekend activities: Family-oriented campgrounds schedule regular events. "This is a beautiful family orientation campground. There is something for everyone. Playgrounds, new pool, kids activities, corn hole tournaments, fishing pond," writes a camper at Rvino - Lost Acres.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pull-through sites are limited at most rv parks near Monterey, Indiana. "Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground," notes a camper about Tippecanoe River State Park. At Oak Lake, "pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??"
Electrical options: Different parks offer varying amperage options. "Our electrical pedestal had no 30amp receptacle. If you have a 30amp plug, bring a 50amp adapter. There are two 20amp outlets available," advises a visitor to Wabash City RV Park.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs between carriers. "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service," reports a camper at Tippecanoe River State Park.