Camping sites near Auburn, Indiana include several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 925 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by gentle hills, woodlands, and numerous small lakes formed during the last glacial retreat. Summers can reach high humidity levels with temperatures typically ranging 75-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Kayaking connected waterways: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground features nine interconnected lakes for paddling. "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored. The facility is clean and very safe," shares Amanda J. who has visited the park many times.
Toboggan runs: Winter visitors can experience unique outdoor activities at Pokagon State Park Campground. "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions; would be a great spot for a family reunion," notes Amy K.
Swimming: Several campgrounds offer lake access for swimming during summer months. At Chain O' Lakes, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," according to Jeremy C., while Angola/Hogback Lake KOA features "a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake."
What campers like
Natural wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters as highlights. "Nice quiet campground with lots of wildlife. Tent lots are flat and a good size. RR and showers nearby," reports Karson G. about Chain O' Lakes State Park.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds coordinate scheduled events. "We visited on one of the Halloween weekends. Lots of things for the kids to do. Haunted hayride and haunted house. We have been going for 10 plus years," shares Ray R. about Gordons Campground, which hosts regular themed weekends throughout the camping season.
Lake fishing opportunities: The numerous lakes surrounding Auburn provide fishing access. At Bixler Lake Park & Campground, campers appreciate the peaceful setting. "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," notes Ray L.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds maintain better sites than others. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday, "the site was perfect with everything we would need already there.. chairs, table, and even a propane grill!" according to Marshall T.
Bathroom facilities differ: Bathhouse quality is frequently mentioned in reviews. Johnny Appleseed Campground received praise for "the most modern, clean shower/bath house I've seen. Unfortunately, the restroom is located across the street from the campground," writes Jodi S.
Seasonal populations: Many campgrounds have a mix of weekend campers and seasonal residents. "The campground was gated and it took quite a while for staff to let us in, despite having booked and paid in advance. Most sites were occupied by seasonal folks with equipment that looked like it had been there for decades," notes Greg S. about Indian Springs Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around organized events at family-friendly campgrounds. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, "The River Greenway path cuts right through the park, and there is also a boat launch for the river... Bathrooms are nice, and there is also a playground!" shares Tara W.
Beach alternatives: Look beyond natural swimming areas. Hogback Lake KOA offers structured water recreation options as Doug A. explains: "They have a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake. They have docks, pontoon rentals and a launch if you wish to bring your own boat."
Kid-friendly crafts: Some campgrounds organize activities specifically for children. "We camped here most of the summer weekends. We had our kids and grandkids with us a few times, and everyone had a blast. Always something to do, for everyone. They have a lot of movies for the kids in the evenings, and a lot of kid activities," reports Dave about Gordons Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campsites strategically based on road proximity. At Bixler Lake Park & Campground, campers appreciate that it's "very nice and friendly atmosphere and very quiet place to relax and enjoy a long weekend," according to Wayne B.
Hookup arrangements: Check hookup placements before setting up. At Hogback Lake KOA, "watch out for some of the patio sites, some have a fire pit that would sit directly under an awning. Our patio site though had the pit far out from site and we loved it, the grill even had propane in it to use!" advises Ashley G.
Seasonal operating dates: Confirm campground availability as many operate seasonally. Bixler Lake Park & Campground runs "last weekend April to October 15," while Gordons Campground operates "Apr 15 - Oct 15," important for planning camping trips near Auburn during shoulder seasons.
