Northern Indiana camping near San Pierre transitions between the dunes along Lake Michigan to more wooded areas with rivers and lakes. Campgrounds typically operate from April through October with a few remaining open year-round. Most sites within a 45-mile radius of San Pierre require reservations at least two weeks in advance during summer weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking and tower climbing: At Tippecanoe River State Park Campground, visitors can access several trails directly from the campground. "The hike to get to the firetower is short," notes Kaley A., who adds that while the trails "aren't really anything special and aren't really well marked either," the tower is "fun for the kids." Another visitor, Tucker A., appreciated the "well maintained and beautiful state park" with "perfect" sites.
Fishing opportunities: Oak Lake RV Resort offers on-site fishing in their stocked pond. According to a reviewer, the campground provides a "great family setting" with "plenty of shade" for comfortable angling. The Tippecanoe River also provides fishing access, though according to one camper, "fishing was poor according to my husband," suggesting that anglers should temper expectations or explore multiple water bodies during their stay.
Sand dune exploration: The unique landscape at Indiana Dunes allows for distinctive hiking experiences. "The sand is very soft and feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," recommends Greg S. about the Three Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. Another camper notes that "the sunset on Lake Michigan from the dunes was awesome," making evening hikes particularly rewarding.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cleanliness stands out at Michigan City Campground, where one visitor described it as "a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN." Another camper noted that "the shower/bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing."
Security features: Several campgrounds offer enhanced security measures. Michigan City Campground is "gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter," while Love's RV Stop is described as "new, gated and has basic amenities" with a reviewer appreciating that it feels "secure."
Spacious sites: Site size varies significantly between campgrounds. At Dunewood Campground, a camper mentioned that "the campsite was large and beautiful" with "lots of nature, chill vibe." Another noted that "the sites are decently private with good tent pads." Potato Creek State Park offers sites that are "smooth and level and well taken care of," particularly in the back section (sites 230-287) which offer "larger lots and quieter atmosphere."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies across the region. At Tippecanoe River State Park, one camper noted that "cell service is limited so it is a great place to get away from it all." Another camper provided carrier-specific information: "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service."
Mosquito preparation: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito activity. At Tippecanoe River State Park, Rob H. simply stated it was the "worst place for mosquitoes." Another review advised that "the mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May and they were just getting going. Spring and late fall would be a good time to visit."
Noise considerations: Rising Sun Campground camper j S. reported that "last night there a few loud locals decided to set up camp next to me at 10pm and leave then came back continued to be loud and leave again." At Michigan City Campground, one reviewer mentioned "garbage pickup at 11pm, very loud, and the fireworks being set off until after midnight." Train noise affects several campgrounds, with one camper at Dunewood noting they "could hear trains throughout the night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: At Tippecanoe River State Park, sites near the playground offer convenience for families. "Sites 2,3,4,6, and 7 have direct access to a playground and you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site." Oak Lake RV Resort also features playground access, with one camper mentioning their site was "right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Kid-friendly activities: Last Resort Campground organizes special events for children. "Saturday night golf cart parade. After dark the campers with golf carts do a parade around the campground and toss candy," reported Ron L. Another family mentioned "they had laser tag, candy parade, crafts etc..." during a themed weekend.
Petting zoo experiences: Hickory Hills Campground offers animal interactions that children enjoy. One camper highlighted their "FUN petting zoo, gemstone mining for the kids, hayrides, as well as crafts and a scavenger hunt. The grand kids loved this place and ask constantly when they get to go back!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: At Potato Creek State Park, be prepared for electrical hookup placement. "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up," advised Frank M. The campground offers "tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations" but requires planning for cord length.
Premium site options: Michigan City Campground offers upgraded sites for larger rigs. "We stayed in the premium sites which were 90ft pull through with 50A service, water and sewer, and the best wifi I have seen at a campsite. The cement patio was large with a picnic table and an adjacent fire pit," reported Craig C.
Easy overnight stops: Love's RV Stop provides convenient access for travelers. One RVer noted it has "clean full hookups, pull through and back in sites" and is "open all year." Another mentioned it's "easy on and off I-65 yet barely any traffic noise" and provides "good value and secure," making it ideal for overnight stays while traveling through the San Pierre area.
