Camping near Ora, Indiana provides access to several water-based recreational opportunities with the Tippecanoe River serving as a central feature for many local campgrounds. The area sits at approximately 715 feet above sea level with mixed woodland and prairie terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Hiking and nature observation: Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers several trails accessible directly from the campground. "Small but worth going. Fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax," notes one visitor. The fire tower provides elevated views of the surrounding landscape and makes for a popular short hike.
River activities: Rising Sun Campground provides direct access to the Tippecanoe River with equipment rentals available. "Located right on the beautiful Tippecanoe River with float, canoe, and kayak rentals," reports a camper. The river's moderate current makes it suitable for beginners and families.
Biking: Potato Creek State Park Campground maintains both paved bike paths and mountain biking trails. "The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," states one visitor. The park offers terrain for various skill levels, with beginner-friendly routes clearly marked.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the Ora area feature mature tree coverage. At Tippecanoe River State Park, campers appreciate that "sites are spaced good" and note the park has "large sites with lots of trees." This natural spacing provides privacy not always found at more developed campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Facility maintenance receives positive mentions at several campgrounds. At Last Resort Campground, "bathrooms [are] very clean" according to visitors. Similarly, at Rising Sun Campground, guests note "clean facilities" as a highlight of their stay.
Fishing opportunities: Bass Lake State Beach provides access to fishing with "a great little campground on beautiful Bass Lake." Local lakes and rivers contain various species including bass, bluegill, and catfish, with fishing licenses required for anglers 18 and older.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito issues: Insect activity varies by location and season. At Tippecanoe River State Park, one camper reported it was the "worst place for mosquitoes." Early spring and late fall camping typically offers relief from biting insects.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. One visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park notes, "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service." Preparing for limited connectivity is advised, particularly at campgrounds further from major highways.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. A camper at Hidden Lake Paradise Camp Ground observed, "There is no filter on any of the well water so it smells like rust... the main water is clearly filtered but showering here is a rough task."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple area campgrounds feature play facilities. At Hickory Hills Campground, families can enjoy a "FUN petting zoo, gemstone mining for the kids, hayrides, as well as crafts and a scavenger hunt. The grand kids loved this place and ask constantly when they get to go back!"
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events on weekends. Last Resort Campground has been described as having "lots of activities - pool, playground, pond, camp store with a variety of ice creams (kids love this)." Some families note that "they had some chickens & goats the kids loved playing with."
Site selection for supervision: At Tippecanoe River State Park, "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground& you can watch your children from your site." This allows parents to maintain visual contact while at their campsite.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup considerations: Several campgrounds near Ora offer varying levels of electrical service. At EZ Kamp, visitors should note the layout challenges: "EZ camp maybe a little difficult to find because there is just a small gate at the entrance. If you are coming down 275 to Wassen road, look to your left hand side when you've reached the destination."
Site leveling preparation: Last Resort Campground RV sites are described as "relatively level but both sites had a lot of ant hills so be prepared with ant spray or another repellent to keep them out of the camper."
Utility connection access: Some campgrounds require extended utility connections. At Potato Creek State Park, "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up." Planning for these extended connections is essential when selecting a campsite.
Dump station logistics: RVers should plan for dump station access before departure. At Broken Aarow, "The dump station is up by their old entrance and in an odd spot. If you use it, you will have to take a long loop around the campground once you're done to get out."
