Best Camping near Ossian, IN

Ossian is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Ossian is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Ossian, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Ossian, IN (66)

    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    1. Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    50 Reviews
    88 Photos
    161 Saves
    Albion, Indiana

    Nine connecting lakes will be the center of your adventures at Chain O’Lakes. This is lake country and a small boater’s paradise. Paddle through the chain of serene kettle lakes, hike the 23 miles of forested trails, fish the electric-motors-only lakes, stay overnight in a forested hillside family cabin, visit the park's historic one-room Stanley Schoolhouse, or explore the Nature Center. Other facilities available for visitors to enjoy include Chain O' Lakes Campground, beach and picnic shelters.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground

    2. Ouabache State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    30 Photos
    49 Saves
    Bluffton, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground

    3. Johnny Appleseed Campground

    14 Reviews
    22 Photos
    41 Saves
    Fort Wayne, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kilsoquah Camp

    5. Kilsoquah Camp

    7 Reviews
    11 Photos
    58 Saves
    Huntington, Indiana

    This recreation area is part of J. Edward Roush Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Bridge State Recreation Area
    • No image available

      7. KOA Campground Bluffton

      4 Reviews
      7 Saves
      Bluffton, Indiana
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Timber Lake

      8. Camp Timber Lake

      4 Reviews
      18 Photos
      43 Saves
      Roanoke, Indiana
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access

      $20 - $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Springs Campground

      9. Indian Springs Campground

      9 Reviews
      13 Photos
      27 Saves
      Garrett, Indiana

      Indian Springs Campground with over 350 sites has seen many improvements and upgrades within the last 10 ten years, We are a great family campground, but we are also so much more! We are a great location to hold parties, reunions, retreats, and a great spot to have just a day away from it all. Sites: From Tents to Class A's we have sites that can accomodate you! We have nice areas for tenters, but the majority of our sites are 20/30/50 amp electric, water, and sewer, from long pull-thru sites, back-in sites, sites with concrete parking, patios and more! Accomodations: One of our Rustic Cabins, Travel Trailers, Park Model Villas, or our own tiny house "The Lodge" are perfect lodging options if you or your family members do not have a camping unit or do not feel like tenting it. Banquet Hall / Event Center: Ideal for almost any gathering, this large hall can accomodate 200 people. It has large patio doors leading out to a massive deck overlooking our lake, fully handicap accessible including bathrooms, and features a large kitchen. Talk to us about all the great reassons why Indian Springs Campground may be the perfect place for your event! Pavillions: We have two large open-air pavillions that can handle medium or large groups, as well as three small picnic pavillions with mounted grills and picnic tables to have a day away! Store: We have one of the largest and best stocked camp stores that you will find, including a snack shack with hand dipped ice cream, ice, propane fill station, firewood, bait, and so much more! FREE WI-FI hotspot! Fun: Check out our large Sandy Beach with our War Path Water Slide, swim raft, sand volleyball courts, and lounge chairs. We also have available to rent: Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPS), Kayaks, Paddle Boats, Fishing Boats, Canoes, and more! Recreation: Hiking, biking, basketball, horseshoes, beach volleyball, and a large updated playground. Golf Cart Friendly: Available to rent, we have newer four (4) seat electric golf carts with lights and battery level indicator, great for those that want to take it easy! Convieniently located: Near Shopping, Museums, Wineries, Breweries, Golf, Auburn Auctions America, Auburn Automobile and WWII Museum, and much more even on rainy days there is plenty to do or not! Activities: The young and young at heart will enjoy the wide range of activities and events that we have throughout the season, special events, hayrides, potlucks, tournaments, crafts, bingo, and so much more! So whether you want to just relax around the campfire or come join in the activities, we are sure that you will have a fun and enjoyable experience!

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs

      $35 - $60 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
    Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

    Pet-friendly camping near Ossian

    Recent Reviews in Ossian

    213 Reviews of 66 Ossian Campgrounds


    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
      Nov. 5, 2024

      Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

      small campground away from it all

      Little four site camping area on the shore of Rivir Lake (not a typo). It can be accessed either by parking and walking in on the wide, well tended trail (#4 on maps) or by boating. The nearest boat launch is Miller lake, a mile west. Sites 3 & 4 are right on the lake with the best access, Sites 1& 2 are across the trail which is along a raised berm with a bridge over the passage to Mud Lake. I'd give this a higher review, but most people wouldn't appreciate the primitiveness of the sites. It's distance from most amenities could be a turn off, but also could be perfect for others

    • Christie S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
      Oct. 27, 2024

      Johnny Appleseed Campground

      Suppppppper Bathroom s

      They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds.You can even look out at the skylight at the sky.Why you take a shower and while you go to the bathroom is well.It's a beautiful bathroom very well kept.Thank you so much to the campgrounds....

    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
      Oct. 17, 2024

      Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

      Idyllic small location, deserves higher review

      Little four site camping area on the shore of Rivir Lake (not a typo). It can be accessed either by parking and walking in on the wide, well tended trail (#4 on maps) of by boating. The nearest boat launch is Miller lake, a mile west. Sites 3 & 4 are right on the lake with the best access, Sites 1 & 2 are across the trail which is along a raised berm with a bridge over the passage to Mud Lake.
      I'd give this a higher review, but most people wouldn't appreciate the primitiveness of the sites. It's distance from most amenities could be a turn off, but also could be perfect for others

    • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
      Oct. 17, 2024

      Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

      Can be crowded, but a good park overall

      We were a bit surprised that despite having a paid reservation , we still had to pay a $20 Day usage fee to enter the park, but no matter. This is a sprawling and sometimes confusing campground to find your way in. But the sites are generally shady if a bit close together. There are five facilities with showers and running water and six pit toilets. drinking water is accessible throughout the park.
      The majority of sites have six person tables, though some, especially in the new 385-416 loop have little four person tables. These are also the least shaded.
      Campground and facilities are clean and well maintained.
      The General Store is one of the most impressively well stocked I have ever seen. Equipment, toys, tools, food souvenirs, you name it. Good dry firewood is $6.50 a bundle in the store, $7 on the honor system after hours. It burns fast, so you might want to buy more than you think. The store is open until 9:00 Friday & Saturday, but only 2;PM on Sunday and never on Monday. Keep that in mind if you're doing a 3-day weekend as we did. When checking out, look up to see the beautiful wooden canoe with wildlife inlaid wood.
      Fire pits are mostly round iron with non-adjustable swing-away grills. Booking is through Indiana DNR/ Reserve America so you can see photos of the site you pick.
      This was our second experience with an Indiana state park, and like our first (Pokagon, in the winter) we were impressed with the clear marking of the hiking trails (and canoe trail for that matter) there was a map and guidepost at every junction.
      There's a beach, concession stand and boat rentals on Sand lake, the Park's largest. Lastly, there's a fish cleaning shed with running water outside the campground entrance that anyone in the park can use, something I wish more parks would provide.

    • Kris
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground
      Oct. 13, 2024

      Blue Lake Campground

      Great place

      Blue Lake Resort is a hidden gem for campers! The serene atmosphere and beautiful lake views make it a perfect getaway. The amenities are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. I particularly enjoyed the fishing opportunities and the peaceful nature trails nearby. I actually recently wrote an essay about the natural beauty of Indiana for my geography class, and it was really great to have the helpfull resource https://stateofwriting.com/uk/geography-writing-service. They have some great guides and tips for geography essays. 

      Definitely a place I’d recommend for families and nature lovers!

    • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Grand Lake St. Marys State Park — Grand Lake St Marys State Park
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Grand Lake St. Marys State Park — Grand Lake St Marys State Park

      One nighter

      We were just passing through for one night and we’d been there before but this is a new site to us. It had a decent level pad and plenty deep enough for our camper and tow vehicle. The site has a large side and backyard with a great view of the lake. The shower house was just a short walk. Check in was easy and so was finding our site.

    • Jasmine M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Mar-Brook Camp Ground
      Aug. 20, 2024

      Mar-Brook Camp Ground

      I have camped here on and off when I was a kid!

      Since my experience here growing up and having family get-a-ways, it’s always been my dream to live here!!

    • FThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Salamonie River State Forest
      Aug. 17, 2024

      Salamonie River State Forest

      Primitive sites

      Small campground. 13$. No reservations, but sites seem readily available, even on weekends in the summer. Spacious sites. Fairly wooded. Firewood only available Mon - Friday 8-3.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
      May. 28, 2024

      Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

      Nice but older

      Our site was 21 inches unloved from front to back and 7 inches down on the passenger side! With poison oak all over the back of our site so bring a lot of leveling block and no kids! Other that that it was a decent park with lots of activities but a very hard campsite to navigate and a busy weekend forget about dumping lol your gonna be there a while. Also no Verizon signal but our friend had T-Mobile and he was ok signal.

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Powell Creek Campground
      May. 8, 2024

      Powell Creek Campground

      Old & dilapidated,

      Old campground with very little to do. Dirty shower building and dirty bathrooms( be sure to bring your own toilet paper because it's always empty). Activity building looks like it is about ready to collapse, with cracks in the concrete big enough to trip over. Run don't walk away from this place!

    • fThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kimpels Hickory Acres
      Mar. 8, 2024

      Kimpels Hickory Acres

      Decent place, will try again

      There is a Waterpark, pool, and hot tub at this campground you can access for an additional price. I camped in a tent next to the cabin that my sister rented so I'm not sure about the tent sites that are available. There are ALOT of full time campers here so I was under the impression that a good site will be hard to find here, but the bathrooms were good and there were things to do so I will try this place out again.

    • Shona S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Water Campground
      Sep. 8, 2023

      Blue Water Campground

      Okay

      It had the facilities, but we were unimpressed with the service when booking, price quoted at reservation and online was different to price charged and we were placed right by the dump ground

    • T
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area
      Sep. 2, 2023

      Mississinewa Lake - Miami Recreation Area

      Nice state campground with full hookups!

      We stay mid-week as we are retired. Full hookup site were $30 a night. Sites seem large and well maintained. All the staff that we interacted with were very friendly. We kayaked the reservoir, used the beach and fished. Finally, we hauled our bikes to the reservoir overlook and then rode them over the dam. A very relaxing trip. T- mobile cell service was 1 bar, however we had our T-mobile internet tower and got 3 bars. Slow speeds but we could still stream tv.

    • Rick G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
      Aug. 31, 2023

      Johnny Appleseed Campground

      Great for Fort Wayne Visit

      Let me start out by qualifying my 5-star review by saying it is site specific. Our site was one of the more private which earned the 5-stars. But, even in a different site it’s a great place to stay for a few nights as you explore the area. Easy in and out, good electric service, water at the site, good Verizon signal, easy dump station access, and friendly camp hosts. Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman) burial site is next to this county park. And he is celebrated each Fall within the park with a festival.

    • T
      Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Plymouth
      Aug. 4, 2023

      Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Plymouth

      Deserves less than 1 star

      WORST CAMPGROUND WE'VE VISITED.

      To start with, the gate staff was curt, indifferent, and almost mute. We got the impression they couldn't care less if we stayed there or not.

      After checking in, our guide took us to our site. As soon as we got into the park, it was evident that this campground catered mostly to seasonal "campers", with most sites occupied with permanent campers and RVs set up with sheds, porches, and other permanent buildings. The streets were exceptionally narrow, with tree limbs scraping the sides and top of our coach.

      When we arrived at our site, we were unable to make the turn into our site, as the site next to us had a white picket fence right on the "property" line. Our guide was able to get us moved to another site, with more narrow streets and tree limb scrapes. Even then we had to cut across the grass to get into our site. The site itself was very uneven, but we were able to finally get the coach level.

      Our grandkids tried the playground equipment, but most of it was rusted and semi-operational. The jump pad appeared to be functional, but an older guy in a site next to the jump pad was chasing and yelling at kids, so our grandkids quickly left.

      Stay here only if no other options are available. In fact, just skip it, you're better off going right on by.

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from River Trail Campground II
      Jul. 30, 2023

      River Trail Campground II

      Quick weekend stay

      The papers were friendly ans helpful. Friendly patrons throughout the park. Clean saltwater pool, a park and a clean pond with a swimming beach. Catch and release fishing allowed. Bingo on Saturday evening! We all enjoyed our stay.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ouabache State Park Campground
      Jul. 19, 2023

      Ouabache State Park Campground

      Camp sites are tiny

      Camp sites are tiny. We had site 88 and it was supposed to be full shade. It was full sun and they have it set up so the camp side of the trailer faces the road. The fire pit is also three feet from the road. Who wants to have a fire next to the road?

    • Donna G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississinewa Lake
      Jul. 4, 2023

      Mississinewa Lake

      Nice campground

      Campground was nice. Site was clean and level. People were friendly l. Downside was the bathrooms. The women's bathrooms had overflowing toilets the whole time we were there. They couldn't seem to figure out how to fix the problem. Unfortunately, the plumbing in my camper wasn't working either, so it wasn't great. The men's bathroom plumbing was also had issues with the sink faucets. The shower temp was impossible to regulate. Also, dogs aren't allowed on the beach. I understand that not everyone wants to be swimming with my dogs though.

    • Jack M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
      Jul. 2, 2023

      Johnny Appleseed Campground

      The pet friendliest place so far

      They have a tremendous pet park with a well maintained yard. The only problem so far has been the water distribution. But the price is very affordable. My site was 30 dollars a night. Bath house and bathrooms are very nicely kept clean. And there is a river right beside it.

    • Stephanie S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Johnny Appleseed Campground
      Jun. 17, 2023

      Johnny Appleseed Campground

      In town small peaceful setting

      We stayed here for one night on our way to a further destination. It was nice and quiet even though it’s in the middle of town. We would’ve enjoyed it more if the hosts hadn’t moved us to a front location by then. The back area sites 2-8 were so peaceful looking and walking back to that area and through it was like walking into a completely different place. The key lock entry bathroom/shower house was the nicest cleanest we’ve used. We would stay here again if we could be guaranteed sites 2-8.



    Guide to Ossian

    Camping near Ossian, Indiana, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the chance to kayak or fish in the nearby lakes. One visitor at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown."
    • Hiking: Trails are abundant in the area. A reviewer at Pokagon State Park Campground noted, "They have good hiking trails, nice refreshing waters, good food options at certain places."
    • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Ouabache State Park Campground shared, "The bison exhibit and ranger programs are great too."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Mounds State Park Campground said, "Bathrooms are very clean, park is beautiful, trails are awesome!"
    • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One family at Summit Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Several campsites offer full shade and most are level."
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A reviewer at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake noted, "Nice staff, really great water park."

    What you should know:

    • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Miami Recreation Area mentioned, "It was overly crowded, the lake was murky."
    • Site Specifics: Not all sites are created equal. A camper at Ouabache State Park Campground warned, "Camp sites are tiny. The fire pit is also three feet from the road."
    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Johnny Appleseed Campground noted, "There was no market nearby, so plan ahead."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake said, "My son had a blast and said this was the best campground he has ever been to."
    • Plan for Safety: Ensure your campsite is safe for little ones. A family at Angola/Hogback Lake KOA mentioned, "Our patio site had the pit far out from site and we loved it."
    • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. A camper at Summit Lake State Park Campground suggested, "Bring plenty of water as posted 'mile' hikes quickly turn into 5-mile hikes."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pokagon State Park Campground advised, "Some sites can accommodate larger rigs, most can't."
    • Be Aware of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A visitor at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground noted, "The roads are narrow & you may be driving off the road for a big rig."
    • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Mounds State Park Campground mentioned, "You have to break down to empty."

    Camping near Ossian, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • What camping is available near Ossian, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, Ossian, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 66 campgrounds and RV parks near Ossian, IN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

    • Which is the most popular campground near Ossian, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ossian, IN is Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 50 reviews.

    • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ossian, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Ossian, IN.

    • What parks are near Ossian, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Ossian, IN that allow camping, notably Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir and Indiana Dunes National Park.