Best Campgrounds near Portage, IN

Portage, Indiana serves as a gateway to multiple camping destinations including Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park, which both offer a mix of established campgrounds and walk-in sites. Campground options range from primitive tent-only areas to full-service RV parks with amenities like electric hookups, water, and sewer connections. Lakeshore Camp Resort and Michigan City Campground provide tent and RV sites with cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort, while the Dunewood Campground within Indiana Dunes National Park offers a more natural camping experience with fewer amenities but greater proximity to hiking trails and Lake Michigan beaches.

Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months when the Lake Michigan shoreline becomes a popular destination. According to one visitor, "Compared to the other popular campground in the state park, this is way less crowded. There's tons of trails to do along the lakeshore and none are really far from one another." Seasonal considerations include the operating schedules of campgrounds like Sand Creek Campground, which typically operates from April to October, and Lakeshore Camp Resort, open from mid-May through September. Weather conditions along Lake Michigan can change rapidly, with summer temperatures ranging from pleasant to hot and humid. Mosquitoes are common in wooded areas, especially after rainfall, and campers should prepare accordingly with proper repellent.

The Indiana Dunes area receives consistently positive reviews for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Several campers note the proximity to Chicago as a major advantage, with the South Shore commuter train providing convenient access to the city for day trips. A visitor remarked, "This is a nice National Park that's only an hour from Chicago." Campground quality varies significantly, with Indiana Dunes State Park Campground and Michigan City Campground earning higher ratings for cleanliness and facilities, while Lakeshore Camp Resort receives mixed reviews. Noise from nearby highways and train tracks affects some campgrounds, particularly Dunewood, where multiple reviewers mention train noise disrupting the wilderness experience. Beach access remains the primary draw for most campers visiting the Portage area, with trails leading from several campgrounds directly to Lake Michigan's sandy shores.

Best Camping Sites Near Portage, Indiana (59)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    11 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!"

    "You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."

    2. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

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

    $23 / night

    "This campground was very nice and clean and for a packed park was very quiet and we did not feel too close to the sites next to us. "

    "The most beautiful state park in Indiana IMO."

    3. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    2 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."

    4. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    9 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."

    5. Michigan City Campground

    22 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    15 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."

    6. Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park

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

    7. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    37 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."

    8. Last Resort Campground

    11 Reviews
    Hanna, IN
    23 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."

    9. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

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

    $25 / night

    "It’s far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long. Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail."

    10. Dragonfly Dune

    2 Reviews
    Ogden Dunes, IN
    4 miles
    +1 (219) 888-0083

    $30 - $40 / night

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Recent Reviews near Portage, IN

590 Reviews of 59 Portage Campgrounds


  • 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

  • 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

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park

    Quiet, well kept spot

    We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. Theres a playground as well. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds I clouding access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open. Close to a grocery store and not far from US 41.

  • G
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Weko Beach Campground

    Wonderful site, easy beach access

    Campground was clean, with trails leading directly to Weko beach with gorgeous walking paths. Highly recommend, definitely a hidden gem.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Clean and quiet

    The grounds were well kept and clean. Even though it was pretty booked when we were there it didn’t feel crowded. Overall pleasant experience.


Guide to Portage

The Indiana Dunes area receives approximately 1.2 million visitors annually, with the highest concentration during summer when temperatures average 84°F from June through August. Camping sites near Portage, Indiana provide direct access to over 50 miles of hiking trails connecting coastal dunes with inland forests. Most campgrounds in this region sit on sandy soil with limited natural drainage, making site selection crucial during periods of heavy rainfall.

What to do

Water activities at the lake: Indiana Dunes National Park offers multiple beach access points for swimming and water recreation. "The closest beach within the national park is Kimmel Beach which is beautiful. There are some biting horseflies at the beach, but not at the campground," notes a visitor at Dunewood Campground.

Dune climbing challenges: Tackle the Three Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, which tests hikers with steep sandy inclines. "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," reports a camper. The challenge covers approximately 1.5 miles of trail with elevation gains up to 192 feet.

Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds for visitors who prefer freshwater angling to Lake Michigan activities. At Last Resort Campground, sites along the eastern end of their fishing pond are particularly popular. One camper mentions, "We had a great site that allowed us to fish and be right across the street from the site!"

What campers like

Clean bathroom facilities: Modern bathroom buildings are a consistent highlight at many campgrounds in the area. At Michigan City Campground, "The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing," according to a recent visitor who found this unexpected amenity during an unplanned overnight stay.

Secure campground access: Michigan City Campground uses a gated entrance system requiring keycard access for added security. "Gated campground so not just anyone can come in, very clean and a nice pool," notes a satisfied camper. This security feature is particularly valued during peak summer months when day visitors often overflow from nearby beaches.

Private camping areas: For those seeking solitude, walk-in tent sites offer greater privacy than traditional campsites. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites provides secluded spots within the national park. A visitor observed, "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long."

What you should know

Train noise impacts: Multiple campgrounds throughout the region experience disruption from nearby rail lines, particularly at night. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," reports a visitor at Dunewood Campground. Earplugs are recommended for light sleepers.

Limited availability during summer: Reservations fill months in advance for weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with most campgrounds reaching capacity by April for summer dates. "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," shares a visitor who found Sand Creek Campground as an alternative.

Temperature fluctuations: The area experiences significant daily temperature variations, particularly in spring and fall. "Brutally hot but otherwise nice," reports a Dunewood Campground visitor during peak summer, while others note rapid cooling after sunset even on warm days. Pack layers regardless of season.

Tips for camping with families

Children's activities: Several campgrounds offer organized weekend activities specifically for younger campers. Last Resort Campground receives positive reviews for its family programming. "Lots of activities- pool, playground, pond, camp store with a variety of ice creams (kids love this) they had some chickens & goats the kids loved playing with. Christmas themed activities the weekend we were there. They had laser tag, candy parade, crafts etc," shares a visitor.

Playground access: Campgrounds with dedicated play areas provide added value for families with children. Warren Dunes State Park Campground features "multiple playgrounds for the kiddos" according to a reviewer who appreciated having recreational options within the campground itself. Many sites at Warren Dunes are situated near play areas for convenient supervision.

Beach safety awareness: Lake Michigan's shoreline presents unique safety challenges for families with children. "Be careful in the lake, because rip current often take young visitors out too far and into dangerous waters," warns a visitor at Indiana Dunes State Park. Some beaches offer lifeguard protection during specific hours; check posted schedules at entrance stations.

Tips from RVers

Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds in the region offer electric-only sites with limited full-hookup availability. "It is electric only but that didn't really bother us- we just showed up with the water tank full and other tanks empty and enjoyed ourselves," explains a camper at Indiana Dunes State Park. Arrive with full freshwater tanks when staying at electric-only sites.

Dump station timing: During peak season, plan for potential delays at dump stations, especially during Sunday checkout periods. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," notes a visitor to Indiana Dunes State Park who appreciated the efficiency of multiple stations. Most dump stations in the area operate from 7:00 AM until sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Portage, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Portage, IN is Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 126 reviews.

What parks are near Portage, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Portage, IN that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.