80 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options around Roanoke, Indiana include several established campgrounds along lakes and reservoirs within a 30-minute drive. The area features notable locations like Kil-So-Quah at J. Edward Roush Lake and Camp Timber Lake, providing a mix of tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and some cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in this region offer electric sites suitable for recreational vehicles, while primitive tent sites can be found in more secluded, wooded sections of these facilities. Several state recreation areas and private campgrounds provide water access for boating and fishing activities.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with most sites in the region open year-round but experiencing peak visitation between April and October. Campgrounds like Johnny Appleseed operate with specific seasonal schedules (April 1 to October 31), while others maintain year-round availability. A visitor noted, "It was my 1st time camping at this campground. It was very relaxing and I also enjoyed walking on different paths to enjoy nature as it was." Self-check-in systems are common at many of the public recreation areas, often requiring cash payment. Road access throughout the region is generally good, with paved approaches to most campgrounds and graveled camping pads at developed sites.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the Roanoke area, with several reviewers highlighting lakeside views and water access. Campsites at Kilsoquah Camp receive positive mentions for their proximity to the reservoir. As one camper described, "We found a cozy camp site along the back ring near the river. We didn't have a view but there was an area to go walk over to that had a very picturesque [view]." Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and specific sites - electric sites typically offer less seclusion while primitive sections often provide more tree coverage and separation between campers. Visitors should note that some areas, particularly around Roush Lake, have shooting ranges nearby that may create noise during daylight hours, as mentioned in several reviews.
"It was very relaxing and I also enjoyed walking on different paths to enjoy nature as it was. I would highly recommend this campground to anyone. It is also family friended"
"Kil-so-qauh, used to be a little hidden gem right outside of town but has turned into quite a popular place, but for good reason."
"Chain O Lakes State Park, Albion Indiana. Northwest of Fort Wayne. 416 electric, nonelectric & primitive campsites. Water is available & 3 dumps.
This was our 3rd time camping here."
"Met up with 18 other skoolies our first Indiana meet. Met great people had a fantastic time. Great park kids swam, showers are clean. Electric at sites but water isn’t but very close by."
from $14 - $90 / night
Check Availability"Some sites around the back are more private than others. There are not trails to hike but some space to bike. Access to the lake is quite a distance from the actual campground."
"We found a cozy camp site along the back ring near the river. We didn’t have a view but there was an area to go walk over to that had a very picturesque."
from $12 - $15 / night
Check Availability"Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping. The River Greenway path cuts right through the park, and there is also a boat launch for the river."
"The location here is pretty crazy it’s right in the middle of town but feels like a park there is a river and wooded area that makes you feel like you are in nature but you are just a parking lot **away **"
"Escaped to this little place on the outskirts of Fort Wayne, Indiana and it was absolutely worth it. Everyone was nice including the neighboring campers."
"Campground is located on private property and all of the primitive spots are right on the lake or very close to it. "
from $20 - $25 / night
Check Availability"This is one of the best parks we have been to in Indiana. We Volunteer all over our the USA at State Parks and National Forest. So we know what to look for."
"Sites 221- 243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access. Sites 228& 232 have sites with good access to the lake. Scattered throughout the park are sites with 50amp service."
from $42 / night
Check Availability"The paved bike trail in the park starts near the campground, and connects with a bike trail along the Wabash River that goes into nearby Bluffton, and is an easy ride. "
"Plenty of trails to hike and a nice little lake to enjoy. Will definitely come back here"
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"If you can get a lake view site enjoy. Some spot are far away from the shower houses but you can drive to them. Nice marina with a great store and boat rentals"
"There’s also an entire beach close by, the parking lot needs to be maintained at the beach. I saw DNR once a day. The boat launch is close if you have a boat. The restrooms are clean but primitive."
"As far as Indiana parks goes, this is a hidden gem. We have camped here many times. Even the trails we frequent always seem new because each season offers a different kind of beauty."
"I return to Salamonie River State Forest year after year because it truly feels like Northeast Indiana’s best-kept secret."
from $13 - $15 / night
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TravelerSmall, quaint, peaceful, and beautiful campground. Lots of amnesties, nice clean pool and very friendly staff. The lots here are very spacious and the site we were at was a FHU with a concrete pad, picnic table, and fire ring. We will definitely be visiting again.
TravelerVisited Hoffman campground at the end of June. Smaller campground, fairly peaceful, lots of activities, and a nice pool. Sites are level but they are tight. Nice can store with very friendly staff.
LegendChain O Lakes State Park, Albion Indiana. Northwest of Fort Wayne.
416 electric, nonelectric & primitive campsites. Water is available & 3 dumps.
This was our 3rd time camping here. We were in handicapped site 325 which was a pretty good site. We had good neighbors which helps. The campground is well established & shaded. Read the site descriptions carefully for inclines & site dimensions.
What is really interesting is they have 7 canoe campsites. They have their own pit toilets & a little dock. Site 3 is behind the pit toilet, but the rest looked ok. They're just off trail 4 as well.
Cabins are also available.
Hot showers& bathrooms. They were state park clean, but definitely need some upgrading.
This is a boating/fishing/hiking park.
There's 29 miles of fairly easy trails- all can be looped.
9 connecting glacial kettle lakes make for great kayaking & canoeing. Electric motor only makes for a peaceful lake experience. Fishing was pretty good according to my fisherguy.
There's a 1915 schoolhouse that's open on the weekends.
There's a small swimming beach with food for sale. There's also boat rental with canoes, kayaks & small boats.
Nice campground for a summer weekend!
GuideWe just stayed in a tent here with our kids & absolutely loved it. The people were great, the store was adorable with a little ice cream shop & the pool & playground were awesome!
GuideWe absolutely love the little beach and playground area so close. The bathrooms were very well kept. The people were very friendly to us. My children played with other children & having kids, I appreciated the small/close vibes it had. If you're a loud family, maybe don't stay long but it's a lovely little getaway close to town. The cemetery across the street is such a lovely addition for our little spooky family.
ScoutI stayed for a week at this park and they lost power due to a storm. Not their fault, I stayed the 1st night afterwards with no power but on the 2nd night they could not tell me when/if power would be restored and I am disabled and need power so I left. The refused to refund the unused days, even when I explained that I paid for a full hookup site and they could not provide power. The campground is decent, the showers are like "prison showers" where you have to push a button every 30 seconds and there is no hot/cold control. I would give it a 3-star if the customer service was not so lacking.
TravelerThe campground itself is beautiful—very clean, well‑kept, and surrounded by lovely green spaces. Unfortunately, the site layout is the real issue. The sites are long enough for larger rigs, but they’re packed in with almost no space between them. Each site has a fire ring, but using it would not be recommended. With our slides out, I could nearly touch both my camper and the one next to us at the same time. We couldn’t put our awning out without it hitting the neighbor’s rig. Because the neighboring unit was so large, sitting outside meant staring directly at their wall—and sitting right next to their sewage drain. When we asked for a different spot, we were told none were available because a group was coming in, yet there were easily 50 empty sites all weekend. Very disappointing, because otherwise it truly is a beautiful place. (See pictures) Side note: the power was off Friday until Sunday morning due to a storm on Thursday night. Would have been nice if we received a discount for not having electricity. The CG saved during this time period.
LegendThursday, June 4-8th, 2026. site M1&2 M1 and M2 are end sites with Check in was easy, pass/card left at gate 20/30/50amp, good source, share with M2 4 water spigots to share with 4 sites Waste cap at site, did not use. The site had thick green grass and well maintained. Fire pits are small, but worked well for the six of us. picnic table for 6.
Great sites if you are camping with friends/family as you are back to back and close together.
The view of the lake from the site changes as more campers arrive. The majority of the CG are seasonal campers, most of the lots are well maintained and the campground has plenty of shade and the birds are active. Huge old growth maples and walnuts throughout the campground provided a decent amount of shade during our stay.
The restrooms are decent and very clean, 3 stalls and urinals with 5 showers in the men’s bathroom. The water was hot and a decent amount of room to change clothes and keep them dry during the shower.
The pool looks very nice, we floated in the lake. The south end of the CG has a nice beach area with boat ramp.
Prompt service from the owners when we had a few questions and the seasonal campers were extremely nice when talking to them!
ScoutWe really enjoy this place it's so peaceful n quite. The manager here is absolutely is the best. He's always on the watch. Feel very safe w him here.
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.
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."
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Roanoke, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Roanoke, IN offers a wide range of camping options, with 80 campgrounds and RV parks near Roanoke, IN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Roanoke, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Roanoke, IN is Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake with a 3.5-star rating from 13 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Roanoke, IN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Roanoke, IN.
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