Camping spots near New Haven, Indiana include a mix of state parks, lakeside retreats, and urban campgrounds within 30 miles of the city. Many campgrounds in this northeastern Indiana region experience seasonal flooding in spring, particularly affecting primitive sites. Summer temperatures average 85°F during peak camping months from June through August.
What to do
Lake activities: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers connected waterways perfect for kayaking. "Very clean state park. Reasonable prices. Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," notes Jeremy C. The park maintains nine connecting lakes ideal for paddling.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails wind through Ouabache State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "Love all the trails here, lots of options for how long of a hike you want to take! There's a surprising variation between more deciduous and coniferous environments depending on the trail you choose," according to Bethany S.
Bison viewing: The bison enclosure at Ouabache State Park provides educational wildlife viewing. "The park has great trails for hiking and biking. The bison exhibit and ranger programs are great too," shares emily P.
Observation tower: Climb the 200-foot restored fire tower at Ouabache State Park for panoramic views. "While you're there, don't forget to say hello to the bison," recommends Bethany S.
What campers like
Urban accessibility: Johnny Appleseed Campground provides convenient access to city attractions. "This is a great little campground if you are wanting to explore Fort Wayne or are local and want to campout. Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping," explains Tara W.
Connected trails: Several campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. "The park is connected to the river greenway which is a beautiful walk along the river!" notes Haylie M. about Johnny Appleseed Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake offers peaceful weekday stays. "During the week it's great. Hardly anyone here and so peaceful," reports Darrell B., though weekends get considerably more crowded with only 60 first-come, first-served sites.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound at regional campgrounds. "Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles," mentions Erica A. about Kil-So-Quah.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: While some campgrounds have modern facilities, others offer only pit toilets. "Kil-so-qauh, used to be a little hidden gem right outside of town but has turned into quite a popular place, but for good reason. The campground accommodates both luxury rv campers and more rustic private tent or hammock goers like myself... There are no fantastic bathrooms just pit toilets but easy get away is worth it," explains Sadye H.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter!" warns emily P. about Ouabache State Park.
Site privacy differences: Camp Timber Lake offers lakefront sites but limited privacy in some areas. "The oweners are nice people. The camp ground is small and clean. There is pull through full hook up sites. But they are full sun and small sites. So no privacy," notes Tina H.
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends bring significant crowds to most area campgrounds. "I've camped here every season but if you dont like crowds, make sure to avoid the summer holidays," advises Sadye H. about Kil-So-Quah.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Blue Lake Campground features a clean swimming area popular with children. "The lake is clean and has a decent beach. You can rent kayaks for cheap. Has a pretty decent grocery store on site. The bathrooms are huge and clean. Kids had fun with basketball, dodgeball, fishing and kayaking," reports Matt.
Zip line adventures: Camp Timber Lake offers recreational zip lines over the water. "Next time we will have to try the zip-lines!" mentions Ashley J., though be aware that "there is a zipline that goes over a few of them so it can be a little strange with people flying over you on a busy day."
Campground playgrounds: Many area campgrounds feature play areas for children. "They have a waterslide, big store, hand scooped ice cream, clean bathrooms and boat rentals," shares Brandy J. about Indian Springs Campground.
Nature programs: Several state parks offer ranger-led educational activities. "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," says Julie B. about Chain O' Lakes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Urban camping convenience: River Camp Fort Wayne provides unusual in-city camping for RVers wanting to explore Fort Wayne attractions.
Site leveling: Most RV sites at Blue Lake Campground are reported as level. "We stayed in lot A-14. They are all gravel lots, but nice and level," shares Matt.
Campground location research: Some campgrounds are located near noisy highways or industrial areas. "The highway noise was terrible. We had A/C on and sound machine and still had a rough time sleeping. Not a bad place for a stopover but too noisy for more than a few nights," notes Sandy F. about Indian Springs Campground.
Reservation timing: For weekend camping near New Haven, Indiana, reservations are essential during summer months. "During the weekends it gets packed. Only 60 sites so show up early if you want one. No reservations so first come gets it," advises Darrell B. about Kil-So-Quah.
