Camping spots near Roanoke, Indiana include both primitive and developed sites alongside reservoirs and lakes at elevations between 750-850 feet. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Autumn camping provides colorful foliage views while spring brings higher water levels at lakeside camping areas.
What to do
Boating opportunities: At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, visitors can access a chain of connected small lakes perfect for kayaking. "Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored," notes Amanda J., highlighting the water recreation options.
Hiking trails: Salamonie Lake offers the 3 Falls Trail for beginner hikers. Caitlin W. describes it as "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."
Birdwatching: Several campgrounds provide excellent wildlife viewing. At Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake, one camper reports, "Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles," noting the diverse avian population you can observe while staying at the lake.
Zip-lining: For thrill-seekers, Camp Timber Lake offers zip-line activities over the water. According to Andy K., "There is a zipline that goes over a few of them so it can be a little strange with people flying over you on a busy day."
What campers like
Lake views: Many campsites at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area provide scenic water vistas. As one camper shares, "Gorgeous lake sunrise/sunsets. Lots of eagle sightings! Plenty of deer. Leaves are beautiful in fall."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at several locations. A visitor to Johnny Appleseed Campground was impressed by the "most modern, clean shower/bath house I've seen," though noting "the restroom is located across the street from the campground."
Privacy options: For those seeking seclusion, Kil-So-Quah offers wooded sites away from more developed areas. "Continuing down the road you begin to enter the woods which is non electric sites with plenty of trees to make your weekend private," explains Sadye H.
Affordable pricing: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates for their amenities. One camper at Kil-So-Quah noted, "Forest settings, electricity for only $15/night," highlighting the value for basic services at this location.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds have limited off-season amenities. At Ouabache State Park Campground, a camper points out, "The campground comfort stations are heated all winter long," making it suitable for cold-weather camping.
Water quality concerns: Some locations have issues with water sources. At Ouabache, a camper warns, "The potable water is brown and smelly.. be sure to bring your water filter!"
Noise factors: Several campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. At Lost Bridge area, campers should be prepared for "gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though," according to one reviewer.
Reservation systems: Most developed sites require advance booking, while more primitive areas often use first-come systems. At Kil-So-Quah, campers note: "No reservations so first come gets it. Only 60 sites so show up early if you want one."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Kilsoquah Camp, Robin H. mentions, "Plenty of play spots for kids, electric and primitive, the sites come with picnic tables and fire rings with cooktops."
Beach activities: Several lakeside campgrounds offer swimming areas. A Camp Timber Lake visitor notes, "Nice zip line and swimming area," providing recreation options beyond typical camping activities.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds with water access require extra vigilance. One camper at Chain O' Lakes advises, "Very busy/loud, the pit toilets did not have doors," suggesting families might prefer the RV section with "better bathrooms."
Nature programs: Some parks offer educational activities. At Chain O'Lakes, a camper shared, "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," indicating family-friendly learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric sites are common but full-service hookups are limited. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, RVers find "a small campground in the middle of the city," that's "directly across the road from the Saint Joe River, very near a dam."
Site privacy: Many RV sites offer little separation between neighbors. At Camp Timber Lake, one camper noted the "pull through full hook up sites. But they are full sun and small sites. So no privacy."
Site leveling: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A visitor to Lost Bridge mentioned, "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible," suggesting RVers should bring leveling blocks.
Seasonal occupancy: Some campgrounds have long-term residents. At the KOA Campground in Bluffton, a camper observed "Lots of residents here for work," indicating a mix of travelers and semi-permanent campers.
