Camping near Orland, Indiana offers a combination of recreational water activities and woodland camping experiences across public and private facilities. The region experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most local campgrounds operate April through October, though select locations like Pokagon State Park maintain year-round accessibility.
What to do
Horseback riding and biking trails: Pokagon State Park Campground provides extensive trail systems for outdoor activities beyond water recreation. According to Amy K., "There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions; would be a great spot for a family reunion."
River paddling adventures: Trading Post Outfitters offers canoe and kayak experiences on the Pigeon River. As one camper notes, "They have to be the easiest and most accommodating canoe outfitters I have ever met." River trips can be scheduled for approximately 5 hours with shuttle service available.
Disc golf and fishing: Cade Lake County Park & Campground combines water activities with land sports. Eric M. describes it as "a nice cozy campground with a large frisbee golf course, a fishing and kayak lake, and a nice store. For the price, it's a must camp!"
Historical entertainment venues: Buck Lake Ranch features a unique historical element not found at other area campgrounds. One visitor notes, "Buck Lake Ranch is full of history dating back to 1947. Hank Williams, Buddy Holly, Loretta Lynn, Waylon, Willie, Alabama, Charlie Daniels to name a few."
What campers like
Private river access: Trading Post Outfitters receives high marks for its riverside location and personable management. One reviewer states, "This is one of my favorite spots for a quick trip from Chicago. The owners and staff are all fabulous. They are all helpful and friendly. It's a smaller campground but clean and well maintained."
Well-maintained grounds: Pokagon State Park stands out for its upkeep and park management. According to one camper, "Pokagon State Park is one of the most manicured, well maintained parks I've been to. The Army Corp does some good work but Pokagon has them beat." This level of maintenance extends to the facilities: "The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and updated."
Water recreation options: Multiple lake access points provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. At Chain O' Lakes State Park, visitors appreciate the variety: "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds in the area coordinate special events based on the time of year. Ray R. notes about Gordons Campground: "We visited on one of the Halloween weekends. Lots of things for the kids to do. Haunted hayride and haunted house."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake requires significant advance planning. One visitor advises: "Only complaint would be that if you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand."
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds offer varying site configurations. At Twin Mills Camping Resort, one camper noted: "Sites deep not very wide. Good for a quick stop." At Buck Lake Ranch, another camper observed their site was "perfect" even for primitive camping.
Weather preparedness: Spring camping can bring cooler temperatures to the region. Rachel N. reported at Pokagon State Park: "Visited April 4, more people than I thought, but found a spot to be by myself." Late September brings "lows in the 40's and highs in the 60's" according to another visitor.
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds have sites positioned near busy roads. At Hogback Lake KOA, a camper advised: "The only drawback is the traffic noise if you're staying in any of the sites near the front of the park."
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water recreation facilities. Jason C. shares: "The waterpark was a huge hit to the kids. A great way to glamp!! Love they have a smaller water park for the smaller kids too! Lots of fun activities!!"
Planned activities scheduling: Family-oriented campgrounds coordinate regular entertainment options. At Gordons Campground, Travis N. reports: "Lots of activities for the kids, krafts, hayrides, kids karaoke as well as adults. We haven't met an unfriendly person yet."
Multiple playground options: Several campgrounds feature designated play areas for different age groups. Bradley P. described Pokagon State Park as offering "Great place for family, lots of amenities," while Twin Mills Camping Resort includes "playgrounds for the little ones too."
Swimming areas with varying depths: Ensure water safety by choosing locations with appropriate swimming facilities. At Chain O' Lakes State Park, visitors mention the "beach was a huge hit with the kids," while maintaining reasonable pricing: "At $35 ish per night it's truly a great park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. At Trading Post Outfitters, one RVer shared: "Stayed one night it's a beautiful campground just small. I came in with a 44ft toy hauler had issues getting in (rookie mistake). There was room if you're careful."
Electrical options: Pokagon State Park offers limited hookup types. Kristen S. notes: "Only electric hookups, but good for a short weekend." At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA, a reviewer mentioned, "Most of the sites are full hook up, some have 30amp and some have 50amp."
Campground layout navigation: Angola/Hogback Lake KOA features distinct camping areas suited to different preferences. A visitor explained: "There are several sections in the park, some more wooded and narrow sites, some are more spread out."
Off-season considerations: For late season camping, be aware of facility limitations. One RVer at Twin Mills noted: "We stopped for one night a week prior to their closing for the season. Not too sure how service would be during peak season."
