Campsites near New Carlisle sit at approximately 800 feet above sea level in a region characterized by glacial moraines and kettle lakes. The area experiences humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, with camping season typically running April through November. Most campgrounds remain closed during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Lake activities: Thousand Trails Bear Cave offers fishing on the St. Joseph River with boat launch and 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: The natural cave at Thousand Trails Bear Cave provides unique underground exploration. "Very nice campground. They have 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," reports Ryan H.
Amish country tours: Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney serves as a convenient base for exploring Amish communities. "Great campground in the heart of Amish country. Near Elkhart and the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum. Great place to visit, really interesting. Also, near Shipshewana," explains Kathy S.
Dune climbing: The massive sand dunes at Lake Michigan provide challenging climbs and stunning views. "Mt. Randall is the high dune to climb but not for the faint of heart!!! And beware, the sand does get HOT midday," warns Heidi S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maple Ridge Campground earns praise for exceptional maintenance. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," reports one camper, while another notes the "newly remodeled bathhouse with laundry."
Quiet settings: Many campgrounds provide peaceful environments despite their proximity to attractions. "This campground has a private lake which is surrounded by farmland. Lots of primitive sites right next to the lake," notes J.S. about Lakeside RV Resort.
Pool access: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools for summer recreation. "Nice in ground pool area & the camp store has plenty of treats for the kids," shares one Maple Ridge visitor, while another mentions the "clean pool and playground."
Kid-friendly activities: Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday offers numerous planned events for children. "Friendly staff, lots of kid activities. Nice pool, clean campground. Barrel train ride is a lot of fun for the whole family," explains Jill P.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "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," explains Jack about Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience regular railroad disruptions. "There is an active railroad nearby this campground. 4 Trains woke us up during the night," warns Irene O. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Alcohol restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. "Warren Dunes has tons of trails, dunes and beaches. The best part, dog friendly off leash beach! If you travel with dogs, it's a great campground! There are water pumps and outhouse restrooms on the rustic sites. There is also a general store on the grounds should you need anything you forgot. Also, there is no alcohol allowed on the grounds," explains Amy G.
Seasonal limitations: Most water services shut down after October. "Our plans changed mid afternoon, they had a spot for us. Reservations were easy and they were extremely welcoming and helpful," notes Robert T. about finding last-minute accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation centers: Warren Dunes State Park Campground offers diverse activities beyond camping. "Wonderful campground! Lots of shade and plenty of privacy between sites. The bathroom seemed newer (South modern loop) with clean bathrooms (cleaned at least twice a day) and private shower stalls," reports Heidi S.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule special events. "Great owners and almost all full hookup sites. Newly remodeled bathhouse with laundry and also a heated pool. Highly recommend this campground," shares Brandon E. about Maple Ridge Campground.
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "This is an excellent family run campground. The bath house is newly remodeled and very clean, nice in ground pool area & the camp store has plenty of treats for the kids. The owners are very nice & plan activities every weekend for the kids," explains Shayna E.
Safety features: Some campgrounds offer additional security measures. "The resort sits on the St. Joseph river & this park has a boat ramp & dock for fishing. There is a gate that campers need a code to get into so it keeps out unwanteds. Nice staff," explains Gay G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Mini Mountain Campground offers varied sites for different needs. "Nice size campsites!" reports Laikyn C., though other reviewers note the campground has "narrow roads with tight turns to navigate thru with camper."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites may be limited at popular campgrounds. "Most of the full hookups are taken 1st by the annuals. Sucks really but they do have an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around," advises Jack about Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
Spacing considerations: RV sites vary in size and privacy between campgrounds. "This campground is close to home so we spent a couple days here so the kids could play while I worked. All staff was extremely helpful and friendly from the minute we pulled in. The sites are tight, but it didn't feel cramped," explains Brian H. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Good spots for RV/pull behind/tents. Clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven's beautiful beaches!" notes Hannah S. about Covert/South Haven KOA.