Valparaiso camping experiences vary throughout the year with autumn temperatures averaging 55°F while summer days reach 85°F. The region sits at approximately 790 feet above sea level, with the nearby Indiana Dunes rising dramatically to 192 feet above Lake Michigan. Train noise affects multiple campgrounds in the area due to the major rail corridors connecting Chicago with eastern destinations.
What to do
Hike the dunes challenge: At Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, visitors can test their endurance on marked trails. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," notes Greg S.
Mountain biking opportunities: Potato Creek State Park offers biking trails suitable for beginners within a 45-minute drive of Valparaiso. "With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes," explains Frank M., who visits regularly.
Swimming at Lake Michigan: Warren Dunes State Park provides beach access with safety measures. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," reports Kaley A.
Fishing at local ponds: Sand Creek Campground offers fishing opportunities for those who prefer freshwater activities. "There are several open spots on that rainy Sunday, so we were allowed to pick any open spot. Some spots were out in the open, others along the tree line, and a few in the woods," notes Meghan B.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Sand Creek Campground receives praise for its bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms seemed newer and were very clean during our stay. The tent sites were very private as we were the only ones there for the night. Plenty of space tucked among the trees," writes Danielle C.
Clean, wooded campsites: Dunewood Campground in Indiana Dunes National Park offers natural settings. "The sites are decently private with good tent pads. Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," mentions Katherine T.
Gated security: Michigan City Campground provides controlled access. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," says Beth B., who appreciated the safety measures.
Proximity to Chicago: Warren Dunes State Park allows for city viewing on clear days. "On clear evenings you can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake. The state park has many well maintained hiking trails and cross country skiing trails in the winter," shares Anna G.
What you should know
Train noise disruptions: Noise pollution affects multiple campgrounds. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," explains Katherine T. from Dunewood Campground.
Seasonal water limitations: Most Indiana state parks, including Potato Creek State Park, have limited hookups. "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up... Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind," advises Frank M.
Weather considerations: Temperature variations affect comfort at the dunes. "The sand does get HOT midday," warns Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Alcohol restrictions: Warren Dunes State Park prohibits alcohol. "It is alcohol free and they mean it. Really nice campground really nice bathrooms/showers but not enough when campground is full," notes Traci J.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic in wooded areas. "Natural wetlands abound, so definitely bring the mosquito spray," recommends Frank M. about Potato Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Last Resort Campground offers kid-friendly amenities. "Despite the tight space, the kids loved it here. Lots of activities - pool, playground, pond, camp store with a variety of ice creams (kids love this)," shares Heather G.
Beach considerations: Families should prepare for biting insects at certain beaches. "There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," reports Katie O. from Dunewood Campground.
Evening activities: Some campgrounds organize special events. "One highlight, especially for kids is the Saturday night golf cart parade. After dark the campers with golf carts do a parade around the campground and toss candy," mentions Ron L. about Last Resort Campground.
Site selection: Families should consider proximity to facilities. "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," advises Greg S. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Michigan City Campground provides comprehensive RV services. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," explains Erin B.
Site surface variations: Sand Creek Campground offers different site types. "We have a 37' motorhome and pulled a Jeep behind it. There was plenty of room to maneuver around. The sight also had a wood picnic table and fire ring for a wood fire pit," notes Chris M. about their experience at Indiana Dunes State Park.
Dump station planning: Multiple campgrounds offer waste disposal options. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," shares Jeffrey S. about Potato Creek State Park.
Electrical access: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "The sight had 50 amp electric hook ups but no water or sewer connections, and we knew that going in. We had a back in sight #69. There was plenty of space on all sides," says Chris M. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
