Cabins near Portland, Indiana provide options for a variety of camping experiences throughout the agricultural heartland of East Central Indiana. The area sits around 900 feet above sea level with generally level terrain interspersed with small waterways and reservoirs. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with high humidity, making water activities particularly popular at local camping destinations.
What to do
Water recreation at reservoirs: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers multiple water activities despite water quality concerns. "The entire lake stinks of pig poop. All the air smells like poo. You feel like you are breathing feces when you approach the water," warns Megan M., highlighting important considerations before planning water activities.
Playground facilities: Prairie Creek Reservoir provides family-friendly recreation areas. "Primitive tent camping is more than affordable, and the fishing was AWESOME!! He had an amazing time. We've been back 5 times since then. It's a hidden gem for sure!" notes Erik B. about their experience.
Miniature golf and games: Kamp Modoc offers structured activities beyond standard camping. "The pond was great with the inflatables and water toys available for use. The camp store is large and offers food. There were many activities put on by the campground," mentions Amy H., describing the recreational amenities.
Hiking trails: Salamonie Lake features walking paths for nature exploration. "This is one of my first trails I went on that started my love for hiking. It's so short and simple but we loved it. There was so much to see," shares Caitlin W. about the Three Falls Trail near the primitive camping sites.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park receives praise for site size. "Large spacious sites with cement or paved spots. Can be muddy after rain. Has a pool, playground, putt putt golf, boat docks, hiking trails, and some other great amenities," says Ashleigh D., describing the site amenities.
Affordable pricing: Many campers appreciate the reasonable rates for cabin accommodations in the region. "Super clean with level gravel sites" and offering "a little wooden deck with a picnic table," according to Lisa D. about Wapakoneta KOA's cabin amenities and value.
Swimming options: Natural Springs Resort provides alternative water recreation. "This camp ground has a beautiful spring fed quarry with clean and clear water. Easy going fishing spots a pool, weekend activities and even a small camp store with grill/ice cream inside," explains Daniele M.
Camp stores and amenities: Several campgrounds offer on-site stores with basic supplies. "The campground is beautiful. They deliver pizza too! The store has a lot of different items, even socks!" mentions Stefanie C. about Wapakoneta KOA's convenient shopping options.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly between properties. Kamp Modoc operates from April 15 to October 15, while others like Grand Lake St. Marys remain open year-round.
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region experience algae and pollution issues. "The bacteria level in this lake is dangerously high, and no one should swim in this lake," cautions Megan M. about Grand Lake St. Marys, emphasizing the importance of checking water advisories.
Booking requirements: Wildwood Outdoor Escape requires specific payment methods. "Payment needs to be by cash or check which I thought was strange in this day and age. Everything is neat and orderly," notes Sammii D., highlighting an important planning consideration.
Bathroom facilities: Facility quality varies between locations. "Bathroom and shower facilities what was working were very dirty. Dump station was so bad we did not stop," reports Valerie C. about one experience, while others note clean facilities at different properties.
Tips for camping with families
Pool restrictions: Check age and swim diaper policies before visiting. "We found out the hard way toddlers who are not potty trained are not allowed in the pool even with swimmy diapers on," shares Sammii D. about Wildwood Outdoor Escape.
Playground options: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area provides multiple play areas. "3 playgrounds. Some woodsy sites. Visit Pirate's Cove Marina for supplies, wood, and boat rentals," notes J C., highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Buddy sites: Some campgrounds offer connected sites for group camping. "Site 191 and 196 share grassy areas," advises J C. about Lost Bridge West, making it ideal for families camping together.
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent for summer camping. "There must have been a nest of some type of bug in our site because I was bit dozens of times but bug spray pretty much fixed that," reports Amber F. about her Grand Lake St. Marys experience.
Tips from RVers
Site types: Fireside Resort Campground offers options for different RV needs. "Nice quite campground. Lots of permanent campers. But room for weekend campers also. Hiking and wooded paths. With small pond out front," describes Cody R.
Hookup availability: Check electrical amperage when booking cabins or RV sites. "30, 50 amp full hook ups. Water and electric only hook ups, primitive RV and tent sites," explains Jeremiah G. about Natural Springs Resort's diverse site options.
Noise considerations: Some properties experience noise from nearby transportation. "There is a train that blows its horn all night long," warns Kristine W. about KOA Campground Bluffton, an important consideration for light sleepers.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds provide level sites with gravel bases. "The campground is big and spacious. Some areas were like RV parking lots- no trees, no shade, but there was a grassy area in the middle with nice big trees and shade," reports Megan M. about Grand Lake St. Marys.
