Chain O' Lakes State Park offers diverse camping experiences in Albion, 30 miles east of Auburn. The park provides sites for tents, RVs, and cabins with shaded, secluded spaces. Water access draws many visitors, with the park featuring nine connected lakes suitable for fishing and paddling. Multiple hiking and biking trails connect throughout the 2,718-acre property, offering varied terrain from easy paths to more challenging routes.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: Visitors to Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground can enjoy kayaking, canoeing and swimming across nine interconnected waterways. "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored," notes Amanda J. The park rents basic canoes, though availability may be limited.
Climb the fire tower: At Ouabache State Park Campground, visitors can ascend the restored 200-foot fire tower for panoramic views. "The last time we stayed I actually walked to the top of the restored fire tower to take in the view," shares Jacob A. The tower provides excellent photography opportunities, particularly during fall foliage season.
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain winter camping options with heated facilities. "Love this place for winter camping. The campground comfort stations are heated all winter long," reports Lisa N. about Ouabache State Park. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and Pokagon's famous toboggan run.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Ouabache State Park features a bison enclosure that draws many visitors. "The bison enclosure is always fun to check out," mentions Jacob A. The park maintains a small herd visible from designated viewing areas, and ranger programs often include information about the conservation efforts.
Variety of trail systems: Pokagon State Park Campground maintains an extensive network of trails for different activity levels. "There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc.," according to Amy K. Trails connect with nearby nature preserves, expanding hiking options beyond park boundaries.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: State parks near Auburn receive consistent praise for upkeep. "The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and updated," notes Mary H. about Pokagon. Similarly, at Chain O' Lakes, Karson G. appreciates that "RR and showers [are] nearby" to camping sites.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsites vary considerably within each park. "Sites were nice and secluded where we were, but you could hear a few late night partiers nearby," warns Anand about Pokagon State Park. For Chain O' Lakes, Truly W. cautions, "We were in the tent portion and it was very loud, the pit toilets did not have doors."
Water quality issues: Some parks have water concerns. At Ouabache, emily P. warns, "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter!" This applies particularly during summer months when water systems experience heavy use.
Weather considerations: Sites can flood during rainy periods. According to Jacob A., some sites at Ouabache "can get very wet and flooded during a nice rain." Review site elevation when booking, especially in spring and early summer when precipitation is highest.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly activities: Multiple parks offer programmed activities for children. "The bison exhibit and ranger programs are great too," shares emily P. about Ouabache State Park. Nature centers typically offer weekend programs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Beach considerations: Chain O' Lakes beach facilities can get crowded during peak periods. "The beach is often overcrowded with local partiers, drinking and smoking, and leaving trash everywhere. After peak hours these people clear out," notes Whitley K. Weekday visits or morning hours provide less congested beach access.
Group camping options: For family reunions or large gatherings, dedicated areas provide more space. "Group sites usually aren't too full so large space and few neighbors is always a plus," reports Ted C. about Chain O' Lakes, though he notes "the sites are however father from the lakes and trails."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups but lack full service connections. "Only drawback is no water and sewer hook up at the campsite," mentions Steve C. about Ouabache State Park. RVers should arrive with full freshwater tanks and empty waste tanks.
Site length restrictions: Pokagon State Park has shorter sites that may challenge larger RVs. "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven," warns J C. Check specific site dimensions when booking, particularly for units over 30 feet in length.
