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Best Campgrounds near Valparaiso, IN

621 Reviews

Valparaiso, Indiana serves as a gateway to several campgrounds within 30 minutes of city limits, with options ranging from state park facilities to privately owned campgrounds. Indiana Dunes National Park's Dunewood Campground provides tent and RV sites with basic amenities including drinking water and sanitary facilities. Nearby Sand Creek Campground offers a mix of tent sites, RV hookups and cabins in a wooded setting. Michigan City Campground, located approximately 25 minutes from Valparaiso, features year-round camping with cabin rentals and full hookup sites. The camping landscape in this region spans from basic primitive sites to full-service resorts with amenities like pools and recreational facilities.

Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences in the Valparaiso area, with most private campgrounds operating from April through October. "We spent the weekend exploring America's 61st National Park- Indiana Dunes National Park. The National Park campsite was full and recommended this place about 10 minutes away," noted one visitor about Sand Creek Campground. State and national park campgrounds tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, making advance reservations essential. Weather patterns along Lake Michigan can bring sudden changes, with cool breezes even during summer months. Train noise affects several campgrounds in the region, with multiple reviews mentioning nighttime disruptions. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though some wooded sites may experience reduced coverage.

Campers consistently mention the proximity to Indiana Dunes National Park as a primary draw for camping in the Valparaiso region. The national park and adjacent state park offer hiking trails, swimming beaches, and unique dune ecosystems that attract visitors throughout the warm season. Public bathrooms and shower facilities receive mixed reviews across different campgrounds, with one reviewer noting that Sand Creek Campground has "a very nice, private, updated bathroom where you could lock the door and have the entire bathroom to yourself!" Site privacy varies significantly between facilities, with tent sites at some campgrounds offering secluded wooded spots while others feature more open layouts. Water access, including Lake Michigan beaches and smaller lakes at private campgrounds, represents a common amenity highlighted in visitor feedback.

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Best Camping Sites Near Valparaiso, Indiana (64)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    127 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "There’s tons of trails to do along the lakeshore and none are really far from one another. I grew up in NWI so I didn’t camp in Indiana often but I did here and loved it!"

    "General: Dunewood campground is located within Indiana Dunes National Park, established in 2019 (The national seashore was established in the 1960s)."

    2. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $30 / night

    "The most beautiful state park in Indiana IMO."

    "The campground although nearly full was relatively calm and quiet. Unlike the craziness of other Indiana state parks I have visited."

    3. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-7482

    $30 - $90 / night

    "First time to Indiana with a quick trip to the Dunes. We were disappointed the state park was full but found this campground close by."

    "Privately-owned and just a short distance from Indiana Dunes. The owner was very nice and helpful at check-in."

    4. Michigan City Campground

    22 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 872-7600

    "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter."

    "It's easy access, clean spacious sites, and how quiet it was considering it proximity to S.R. 421 brought us back again this year. We visited Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park."

    5. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 762-7757

    $49 - $57 / night

    "A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."

    "We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars."

    6. Last Resort Campground

    11 Reviews
    Hanna, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 797-2267

    "We wanted a place close to my elderly parents house and Last Resort fit the bill. Overall it is a pleasant campground with a pool, a pond, and some weekend activities."

    "We were super close to fellow campers.On the other side of the grounds around the pond (electric only) sites were much bigger and secluded. Despite the tight space, the kids loved it here."

    7. Lake O' The Woods Club

    1 Review
    Valparaiso, IN
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (219) 241-0739

    $35 - $60 / night

    8. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance."

    "There are sand dunes in the park just walking distance from some campsites. You can climb these dunes to the beach ( a farther walk) or take a short drive. They have restrooms/showers."

    9. Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park

    1 Review
    Portage, IN
    11 miles
    +1 (219) 762-6578

    10. Potato Creek State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 656-8186

    $20 - $100 / night

    "I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean."

    "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust. Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."

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Recent Camping Photos near Valparaiso, IN

187 Photos of 64 Valparaiso Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Valparaiso, IN

621 Reviews of 64 Valparaiso Campgrounds

  • Katrin M.
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    Campground Indiana Dunes

    We camped here on our way to Minnesota. The campsite had the typical amenities like a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground was clean and it was quiet. The bathroom was a bit outdated, but clean. The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening. Overall, it was a nice campground with spacious sites. It was not a long car ride at all to Lake Michigan.

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Nice Campground But Spendy

    Nice campground with easy access to dunes and lake, but the nightly fee for a motorhome with electric only (no water) was $60 a night. Quite a bit higher than we would typically go for, but other campgrounds in the area were shut down for the season. The spaces are small but it wasn’t too crowded, bathrooms and showers were very clean.

  • Abhinay
    Oct. 7, 2025

    The Vaudeville

    Peaceful stay

    It’s was great nd peaceful place for staying on weekends for relaxation.

  • Nadiehsda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Oak Lake RV Resort

    We came for a weekend… Stayed nearly 2 weeks! Oak Lake RV Resort is where family memories are made.

    6 people, 1 pup & a 44.4' Keystone Sprinter... Oak Lake RV Resort handled it all with ease & gave us the BEST camping trip ever! From the moment you drive up, staff are waiting in golf carts to guide you to your site & even help with setup. We were nervous about fitting our big rig, but pull-through site #17 made it flawless. Where else does that??

    We originally booked August 22–25, extended to the 29th & then lucked into staying through Labor Day weekend. We canceled our other plans because Oak Lake had everything we wanted & more!!Pond swimming & obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s’mores, homemade campfire pizzas & endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!

    Rebecca deserves a huge shoutout for going above & beyond! Tom & Marianne, the owners, are amazing hosts who clearly pour their hearts into making Oak Lake special. Even the coin operated laundry was a lifesaver & convinced us we need a washer/dryer in our camper for future impromptu stays 😂.

    We’re already talking about being put on the list for a seasonal site for next year bc we know we’ll be back again & again. Oak Lake RV Resort is Newton County’s hidden gem!!! If you’re searching for fun, hospitality & true family camping memories... THIS is the place!! Hands down, every time.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Camp Bullfrog Lake

    Great camping spot

    This is my second time staying at Bullfrog lake. The first time I was in spot 2 which had more privacy but felt more cramped. This time I was in spot 18 which felt like it had more space but had almost no shade.

    The camp hosts are really hit or miss. One guy was so nice and took a bunch to photos for me of me kayaking. The other guy seemed mad to be alive lol.

    The kayaks are $15 and hour and include life vests. The lake is pretty small but it was fun to putter around.

    Unfortunately the wood I bought from the camp store took forever to catch flames—my other two neighbors had the same issue.

    Bathroom/shower facilities were clean and well stocked.

    Overall I’d definitely stay here again.

  • Kevin B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Camp Sullivan

    Enjoyed the camping experience

    Nice and clean areas, staff was very professional and helpful while I was there

  • Nadiehsda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Newton County Fairgrounds

    2025 Fair Week (1st time)

    We stayed at the Newton County Fairgrounds during fair week & had a great experience. The grounds were clean & well kept. It was easy to get around even with all the fair activity going on. Our campsite had water & electric only, just like all of the others. The bathrooms & showers were in good condition considering how busy the week was.

    The fair itself was a lot of fun! From the 4-H shows to the carnival rides & food vendors, there was always something going on. The kids loved it! It felt very family-friendly & welcoming.

    The only thing to note is that cell service & wifi can be a little spotty, but honestly that gave us more time to just enjoy the fair & each other. Overall, we would definitely come back & recommend it to anyone looking for a good small-town fair experience with a convenient place to stay.

    Cannot wait until next year!!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Camp Shabbona Woods

    Not the best but acceptable

    Stayed the weekend. Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can’t keep your vehicle close to your campsite. The good the bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Michigan City Campground

    66$ for a good overnight!

    Staying here started off as a last minute thing as we’re driving through and made no arrangements for overnight lodging. With our rooftop tent, staying here was no problem! There was water hookups and electricity if desired, although we didn’t use them.

    The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing.

    I do recommend this place, however, few things to know: the campground space is tight. You will be pretty close to people around you, many with kids. It seems kind of like a family retreat type of location and honestly? It’s a whole vibe and if that’s for you, then this place is too!

    #GoAnyway

Guide to Valparaiso

Camping near Valparaiso, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds are close to Lake Michigan, making it easy to enjoy the beach. One camper mentioned, “The beach area was very nice. Campground was not,” highlighting the proximity to great beach spots.
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground said, “Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails.”
  • Visit local attractions: Campers can explore nearby attractions like the Indiana Dunes National Park. One reviewer noted, “Short drive to the beaches,” emphasizing the convenience of accessing local sights.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Warren Dunes State Park Campground stated, “Bathrooms were decent and we liked the private showers, warm water!”
  • Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. A visitor at Michigan City Campground said, “The staff is great. Very helpful and will work with you on taking care of your camp site.”
  • Spacious sites: Campers often mention the generous spacing between sites. One camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground remarked, “Our site was huge and the bathrooms were clean.”

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes can be a problem: Many campers warn about the bugs, especially in summer. A review for Tippecanoe River State Park Campground noted, “The mosquitoes are prolific and abundant!”
  • Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Warren Dunes State Park Campground mentioned, “Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful.”
  • Limited privacy: Campers should be aware that some sites are close together. A review for Weko Beach Campground stated, “The sites are close together and the fire rings are small.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for playgrounds: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “Great playground on the east side of the first loop.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for family fun. One reviewer at Bear Cave RV Campground said, “The river is good for boats and pontoons.”
  • Pack bug spray: Given the mosquito issue, it’s wise to come prepared. A camper at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground advised, “Come prepared for mosquitoes in the summer.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A review for Bear Cave RV Campground warned, “Call beforehand if you are 40' or bigger.”
  • Look for electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake noted, “The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept.”
  • Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or other campers. A camper at Lakeshore Camp Resort mentioned, “The camp is a ten-minute drive from West Beach area of Indiana Dunes National Park.”

Camping around Valparaiso, Indiana, has its perks and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV-friendly camping options in Valparaiso?

Michigan City Campground is an excellent RV destination near Valparaiso, featuring beautifully maintained premium sites with 90-foot pull-throughs, full hookups (50A service, water, sewer), and exceptional WiFi. The gated facility provides cement patios and spacious sites. Another good option is Lakeshore Camp Resort, which offers easy access to Indiana Dunes National Park and accommodates both permanent and transient RVers. For additional RV camping options, Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park near Portage provides reservable sites with water access and is big-rig friendly. Most RV parks in the area operate seasonally, typically from April through October.

What are the best campgrounds near Valparaiso, Indiana?

The Valparaiso area offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground is considered one of the most beautiful state parks in Indiana, featuring recently renovated campsites and modern facilities. Just minutes away, Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park provides a less crowded alternative with numerous nearby trails along the lakeshore. Both offer easy access to Lake Michigan's stunning shores and dunes. Other quality options in the region include Sand Creek Campground with its private tent sites and clean facilities, and Potato Creek State Park Campground which offers more inland recreation opportunities.

Can I find riverside camping near Valparaiso, Indiana?

While Valparaiso isn't directly on major rivers, several nearby campgrounds offer water-adjacent camping experiences. Indiana Beach Campground provides a clean, quiet setting near water recreation opportunities, though it requires navigating some less-traveled roads to reach. Lake O' The Woods Club offers both drive-in and boat-in access, making it suitable for those seeking a waterside experience. For those willing to drive a bit further, the Kankakee River provides additional water-adjacent camping options. While not riverside, many campgrounds in the region offer lake access or are near Lake Michigan, providing similar water-based recreation opportunities without being on a traditional river.

What camping options are available for tent campers in Valparaiso?

Sand Creek Campground offers tent campers private sites tucked among trees, clean newer bathrooms, and a peaceful setting. It's an excellent alternative when the more popular parks are full. For those seeking a primitive experience near Lake Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park Campground provides semi-modern sites in a tent-only section away from RVs, though highway noise can be a factor. Tent campers also enjoy Dunewood Campground in Indiana Dunes National Park for its modern bathrooms, showers, and running water. Most tent campgrounds in the region are open seasonally (typically May through September) and offer basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities.

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