Top Tent Camping near Portage, IN

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Portage and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Portage, IN (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

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

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    24 Saves

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.____ The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.__ For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan is located nearby, less than 5,000 feet (1524 m) from the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (camping reservations cancelled the day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus a forfeiture of the first night's use fee.__ For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies.__

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Toilets

    $25 / night

    • No image available

      2. Camp Shabbona Woods

      1 Review
      37 Saves
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $30 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      3. Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      2 Reviews
      2 Photos
      12 Saves

      Davis Creek Campground is available by reservation for chaperoned youth and church groups. All areas require camping permits, available at the park office or from park personnel in state vehicles. Groups of 25 or more are required to obtain a free activity permit from the park office.

      • Reservable
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing

      4. Mac Finn's Landing

      1 Review
      16 Photos
      24 Saves

      Tent camping fishmermen's retreat.

      Parking Available for guests.

      Boat friendly. (Kayak rental Available.)

      Season ending December 1st, 2022.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $35 - $50 / night


    Recent Tent Reviews In Portage

    540 Reviews of 4 Portage Campgrounds


    • PThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Lake RV Resort
      Oct. 28, 2024

      Oak Lake RV Resort

      Quiet, nice place.

      Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom.

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Oct. 22, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Great for short stay

      I’m very familiar with Warren Dunes but this was my first time camping here. Great walks and hikes and the short drive to the beach is a plus. The sites aren’t too private and can fill up quickly. The bathrooms were clean and stocked. I read lots of reviews about the noise from the road and nearby highway and I didn’t think it would bother me, but I was wrong. I wish I had some ear plugs because I had difficulty falling asleep. Overall great place, especially for beginner campers as there is a small onsite store for camp basics. Three stars due to noise and not much privacy.

    • TThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
      Oct. 21, 2024

      Camp Sullivan

      Urban Camping near Chicago

      Camp Sullivan offers a charming and well-maintained space for campers of all kinds, from tent enthusiasts to RV travelers like us. All the RV sites here are back in, and while they are tight, they are certainly manageable. We brought our 36-foot RV, the Badger, and although it barely fit, we were able to position it close enough to the power box by choosing not to extend the slide. This turned out to be a smart decision, considering the timbers that line the gravel surface of the site. These timbers add a bit of a challenge when maneuvering a larger rig, and in our case, (note to staff) removing the timber closest to the road would have made things much easier. 

      Each RV site is equipped with 15, 30, and 50-amp electrical connections, though it’s worth noting that there’s no water or sewer available at individual sites. As a result, water conservation becomes essential. The bathrooms here, however, are clean and well-kept, which is always appreciated, especially after a few days without on-site water. There is also a stainless steel sink for use in front of the RV area's bathroom where you can do dishes.

      Security at Camp Sullivan feels solid, and while there is some noise, it wasn’t disruptive. We stayed over a weekend, and though there was a lively group in the group campsite Saturday night, they respectfully wrapped up their activities by quiet hours, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. 

      The roads throughout the campground are in good condition, and the trees aren’t a concern for your RV clearance. In addition to RV sites, Camp Sullivan offers a range of accommodations for all kinds of campers. There are small rental cabins, large bunkhouses for group camping, and plenty of tent sites spread across the grounds. We didn’t have the chance to check out the"Barn" yet, but it’s a major feature here, housing a climbing wall and concessions. 

      We also noticed staff busy cleaning the bunkhouse areas and taking care of trash removal, even on a quiet Sunday. Everyone we encountered was friendly and added to the overall positive vibe of the place. Camp Sullivan is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, (up to six days allowed) with plenty of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where we feel comfortable and cared for, with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

    • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Oct. 5, 2024

      Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

      Safe and comfortable campground

      Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.

    • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
      Sep. 15, 2024

      Camp Bullfrog Lake

      Pretty great!

      I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

    • Jim L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Martin’s Camping Ground
      Sep. 8, 2024

      Martin’s Camping Ground

      Parking lot

      Sites are very close. You can watch the traffic on the highway from your camper.No picnic table, no firing, bathroom and showers were clean. Thought it strange that you needed a combination to get in the bathroom.Seems like most people live there. With a few sites for People passing through. If you’re looking for a place to park for the night and take a shower this is all I would recommend this place for

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jul. 23, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Great place to stay for a few days!

      Stayed for 3 days/2 nights. Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful. Most spots were fairly out in the open, but we had a nice spot with a few trees hiding us on 3 sides and not too far from water or bathroom trail. Bathrooms were decent and we liked the private showers, warm water!

      Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!

      The only major downfall was the price of everything at the little store. $6 for an ice cream sandwich!?! No thanks! However, be sure to visit The Beach Bucket for your ice cream cravings on those hot days!! They also have firewood which burned so much better than what the camp store offered.

    • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park
      Jul. 22, 2024

      Tippecanoe River State Park

      Friendly park security

      We arrived late, and the friendly park security directed us to the campground.

      The vault toilets were acceptably clean. Spots were close to the river. The campground has cabins, trails for hiking and horseback riding.

      As other reviews have stated….the mosquitoes are prolific and abundant! We left early.

    • Rebekah J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jul. 11, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Lots of road noise and LOTS of mosquitoes

      Stayed at site 201 at the Hildebrandt campground. Sites are smallish. Most sites have some shade, but little privacy in between. The scenery wasnt that great, mostly vine like trees you'd see in a flood plain. The water pump was out during our stay and needed to go to the station near the modern campground.

      We were scheduled to stay for 3d/2n but plans changed due to weather from hurricane beryl. It started to rain in the first evening and we had a mini creek running through our site. With the amount of rain projected to be on its way we could only imagine it being completely flooded.

      Mosquitoes were awful even before the rain. Vault toilets were well taken care of.

      If you want quite or the sound of nature, this campground is not for you. You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night. The general store near the campground entrance is a nice convenience if you forgot something or need ice/fire wood.

      It is wonderful though how close the Campground are to Lake Michigan/warren dunes, which is why we stayed.

    • Joe A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ruperts Resort Campground
      Jul. 7, 2024

      Ruperts Resort Campground

      Very nice and enjoyable place keep things simple and fun cheap too easy on the money 💰

      Nobody complaining it's big enough if you want to be loud late you can the people that have a rv all year round are all nice and cool I ran in to just about every one all nice I recommend Ruperts resort in Indiana Plymouth 😉 they have showers and restrooms too if it's raining they have huge spots to go out of the rain you can bring corn hole or any game you like to bring plus more than I can say 4th July was grrreeat!

    • D G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 24, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Better for a Day Trip

      Went with my in laws who have a camper (I typically camp rustic). The site we were at was smaller and narrow. There was also a lot of noise from the I-94 freeway nearby while trying to sleep.

      While the hiking was good and the beach beautiful, they don’t allow alcohol which is my favorite post hike/beach activity.

      Overall I’d do a day trip for the hiking and beach, but stay elsewhere.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Excellent park

      While, this state park seems relatively small. The spaces are very big. They have a great little general store. The beach is just down the drive. Mood is mellow and relaxing place. Small con-a little bit of flooding. Despite other reviews online no radiation from the nuclear power plant.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Weko Beach Campground
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Weko Beach Campground

      Campground review

      The sites are randomly laid out and on top of each other. The bathhouse looked bad. You could hike the wooden walkway trails over the dunes easily. Pay to park public beach was very close.the beach area was very nice. Campground was not.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Near the dunes and a nice public beach

      This campground is a place to stay while you visit the huge dunes. Developed sites are very small and close together. Sand/grass pads that are not defined. Undeveloped or tent area was almost empty and bigger but no electric. Cabin area has best sites. Cabins are small. Limited toilets. Public beach was nice...quite a few people. Separate area for dogs to play on the beach. Hike the dunes for a great workout

    • k
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake
      Jun. 1, 2024

      Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake

      AWFUL!

      We just went there last night and woke up came home immediately! There was nothing to do at all! A run down park, lake and sites. There was boards with nails just laying all around the park. Not to mention the park was falling apart. It was more of a trailer park than a camping site. The garbage can was overflowing all over the ground. We payed for 2 nights and owner never got back to me to get our money back for tonight! Would not recommend one bit.

    • Joel K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park
      Feb. 21, 2024

      Tippecanoe River State Park

      Very good state park and cabin campground

      We visited this park twice (once in Sept 2020 and again in June 2021).  Both times we stayed in the cabin campground and both times had very good experiences.  Each time we went mid-week so there was hardly anyone else there, and that was great.  The cabins are small but perfectly fine for our group with two bunk beds, a small loft, and a small table inside.  They have electricity so charging phones and devices is not a problem.   Cabins 4 and 5 are up this small driveway and are slightly separated and I would recommend those if you can.  We never had to go to "town" so not sure how far it is to any stores.

      Each time we rented a canoe and did a paddle/float trip on the river that ended at the canoe rental location.  Would not hesitate to stay here again.

    • ssarahkat999
      Camper-submitted photo from Fullers Resort and Campground on Clear Lake
      Jan. 23, 2024

      Fullers Resort and Campground on Clear Lake

      Peaceful lake camping

      It's set on a beautiful man made lake. There is no big waves to worry about on clear lake. Kiddos can catch minnows in calf deep water at the beach. The campsites are beautiful. I suggest the ones up the hill on your right when you enter. The ones that you drive down the hill to have more mosquitos. Karaoke every Saturday in the barn is fun for everyone. There not the most dog friendly though all around the campground. You allowed to have you dogs on only a small part of the beach. I assumed the dog friendly area included the boat laund area but I was wrong. We were talking to another family of campers by the boats with our dog and the owner came down with rage written all over his face and told us we can't be 10 feet away from what I know know is the 10 feet of gravel beach dogs are allowed on. He literally raised his voice and yelled at us and said we were disturbing the family that was happily standing there talking to us about our shihtzu and the kids were petting them. That's my one complaint about fullers is if that man doesn't like what your doing even if it's not a posted rule hell yell at you. He's made my sister with social anxiety cry a few times over the years with his anger. It's a beautiful peaceful camp ground though. I've been going there every summer sence I was a toddler. All the girls who work in the camp store are bubbly and nice. They have the best ice cream! The lake is beautiful with no waves and the waters allot warmer then the bigger lakes. They play some really nice relaxing vibe music from the store balcony. They also have hay rides!

    • Katie A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Nov. 29, 2023

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Nice spot for hiking

      Small campsites, but great hiking trails. Found lots of pawpaw fruit and loved playing on the beach after a nice hike. Lots of road noise at night and the sites aren’t very private.

    • Brad J.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Oct. 10, 2023

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Very busy and overall facilities are a bit tired

      Dunes are gorgeous but honestly I'd rather have gone for a day trip and camped elsewhere for the price. Breakers and outlet on the power pole in the site were falling into the box, showers and bathrooms are a bit worn out etc. Campsites are side by side and it was more packed than a Walmart parking lot. Make sure you bring supplies or treats, the "camp store" was charging $9 for a bag of Doritos...



    Guide to Portage

    Camping near Portage, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to enjoy outdoor adventures, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails. Lunch at the beach front (Lake Michigan) was good and great views."
    • Beach Access: Spend a day at the beach near Warren Dunes State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!"
    • Fishing and Kayaking: Check out Potato Creek State Park Campground for fishing and kayaking opportunities. One camper noted, "Fishing, kayaking on the lake."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park. A reviewer shared, "The bathrooms were clean with individual locking showers."
    • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpfulness of the staff at Michigan City Campground. One camper said, "The staff is great. Very helpful and will work with you on taking care of your camp site."
    • Spacious Sites: Campers at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground appreciate the spacing between sites. A visitor mentioned, "Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails."

    What you should know:

    • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at Warren Dunes State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Mosquitoes were awful even before the rain."
    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Camp Bullfrog Lake, can be noisy due to nearby roads. A reviewer noted, "You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night."
    • Crowded Sites: Campers at Lakeshore Camp Resort found the sites to be crowded. One visitor said, "The park was entirely too crowded. They packed these spots in like sardines."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Potato Creek State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "Great playground on the east side of the first loop."
    • Plan for Water Activities: Choose campgrounds near lakes or rivers for swimming and fishing. One visitor at Weko Beach Campground said, "The best part... was having the beach 2 min from our doorstep."
    • Bring Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, especially at places like Tippecanoe River State Park Campground, it's wise to pack bug spray. A camper advised, "The mosquitoes are absolutely terrible."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking, especially at Michigan City Campground. A reviewer noted, "The sites are close together and the fire rings are small."
    • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park. One camper mentioned, "Sites are electric only, but there’s several water fills."
    • Be Mindful of Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds that are further from busy roads, like Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The campground is clean and feels safe."

    Camping around Portage, Indiana, has its ups and downs, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time enjoying the outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Portage, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Portage, IN is Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Portage, IN?

      TheDyrt.com has all 4 tent camping locations near Portage, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.