Tent camping opportunities near New Paris, Indiana extend beyond the immediate area to include sites within a 35-mile radius. The region sits within the northern Indiana lakes country where elevation ranges between 800-900 feet above sea level with gently rolling terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler nights in the 40s and 50s, requiring campers to pack appropriate gear for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lakeside Campground in Jones, Michigan, tent campers have direct access to fishing. The campground primarily serves seasonal campers but occasionally accommodates overnight tent campers. One visitor noted, "Owners were super nice and found room for us for one night layover."
Kayaking excursions: Several lakes within a 20-mile radius of New Paris provide paddling options beyond the Pigeon River area. Goff Lake Campground offers tent sites with lake access for paddlers. Most kayaking routes in the area take between 2-4 hours to complete, with rental services available at several locations charging approximately $25-45 per day.
Off-season camping: Winter camping opportunities exist at select locations when temperatures drop. Sites typically remain open until mid-October with some reopening as early as April, depending on ground conditions. Fall camping offers colorful foliage viewing with fewer crowds than summer months.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers at Shady Point Campground appreciate the cleanliness of the grounds. A family who spent several nights there reported, "The staff was extremely accommodating. This is a campground that is mostly seasonal campers. It had playgrounds and basketball court and a small 'game' room."
Convenience stores: Several campgrounds offer on-site stores with camping essentials. One camper at Shady Point mentioned, "There was also a well stocked store with very reasonable prices. It sits on Bair Lake and was great for swimming."
Quiet atmosphere: Many tent sites near New Paris provide relatively peaceful settings even during peak season. A visitor to Circle B RV Park and Cabins praised the atmosphere, noting, "Great campground, very well maintained, lots to do, great atmosphere."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most tent campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through September. Some facilities like bathhouses close during colder months even if camping is permitted year-round.
Reservation requirements: While some campgrounds operate on a first-come basis, others require advance booking. River Camp Fort Wayne requires reservations for all tent sites, with bookings available up to 3 months in advance.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Several tent camping areas near New Paris lack potable water sources. Campers must bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and washing, especially at wildlife areas where no services exist.
Cell service variability: Coverage can be spotty at rural campgrounds surrounding New Paris. Most established campgrounds maintain reliable emergency communication systems, but primitive sites may have limited connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Several lakes near New Paris feature designated swimming areas with gradually sloping lake bottoms appropriate for children. Facilities at Shady Point are especially family-friendly, with one camper sharing, "Kids loves it. No problems."
Playground availability: While not all tent campgrounds have play equipment, Campside Michigan offers family-friendly amenities including picnic tables at each site and shower facilities suitable for families with young children.
Insect preparation: Parents should pack child-safe insect repellent during summer months when mosquitoes are prevalent near lakes and wooded areas. June and July typically see higher mosquito activity than August and September.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs during summer weekends, providing learning experiences about local wildlife and ecology. Ranger-led activities typically last 30-60 minutes and occur Friday and Saturday evenings.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: RV campers recommend tent campers use designated water fill stations even when staying at primitive sites. Most public access points provide potable water during regular business hours.
Fire restrictions: Tent campers should verify current fire regulations before arrival. During dry periods from July through September, partial or complete fire bans may be implemented with minimal notice.
Alternative sleeping options: For tent campers seeking more comfort, several campgrounds offer cabin rentals as alternatives during inclement weather. Cabins typically cost $60-95 per night compared to $25-35 for tent sites, offering protection from storms that frequently occur during summer afternoons.
