Dispersed camping options near Roanoke, Indiana include primitive sites at Chain O'Lakes State Park with sites starting at $12 per night for tent camping. The area sits within the Eastern Corn Belt Plains ecoregion at approximately 800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Eagle watching at Salamonie Lake: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area Campgrounds at Salamonie Lake offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of eagles. Nice place, there is gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though," reports Erica A. The lake provides habitat for numerous bird species, especially during migration seasons.
Hiking the 3 Falls Trail: This short trail offers significant natural features despite its modest length. According to Caitlin W., "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."
Boating on multiple connected waterways: The Pic-A-Spot Campground provides direct lake access to the Barbee Chain of Lakes. Adam M. recommends, "Bring your boat or watercraft! Plenty of lakefront camping spots on the barbie chain of lakes. Several (deep, clean) lakes hooked together by channels. Also hook into that big bass or musky!"
What campers like
Clean restroom facilities: Johnny Appleseed Campground in Fort Wayne maintains exceptionally well-kept facilities. According to Christie S., "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skyline at the sky while you take a shower." These facilities feature coded entry for campers only.
Lake views and access: Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area offers premium waterfront sites. Burns G. notes, "We stayed on Campsite 208. Nice size campsite, with good shade. The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible." Lake view sites typically book quickly, with sites 221-243 and 202-204 offering the best views.
Family-friendly amenities: The Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday provides numerous recreational options. Doug A. reports, "They have a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake. They have docks, pontoon rentals and a launch if you wish to bring your own boat."
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds maintain traditional payment systems. At Wildwood Outdoor Escape, Sammii D. discovered, "Payment needs to be by cash or check which I thought was strange in this day and age." Always call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.
Site selection strategy: Cynthia K. advises about Salamonie Lake, "Stay away from campsites 101 & 102 - these are right by the dump station." She also notes, "Some sites are very close together, while some offer a little more room."
Seasonal availability and closures: Most glamping sites near Roanoke operate from April through October. Johnny Appleseed Campground specifically runs from April 1 to October 31, while Wildwood Outdoor Escape operates from mid-April to mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid activities: Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake offers two playground areas in the main camping section. Sadye H. explains, "Entering the camping area there is a lush grass opening with large campsites with water and electric hook ups for the RV folk. There are also 2 nice play grounds in this area as well."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience higher traffic during summer holidays. According to Sadye H., "I've camped here every season but if you don't like crowds, make sure to avoid the summer holidays."
Quiet night camping options: For families seeking peaceful evenings, Bixler Lake Park & Campground offers a reliable experience. Ray L. confirms, "This is by far the place to just relax. It does have its moments..Holidays and special events. Even then campers here live by the lights out code."
Tips from RVers
Highway noise awareness: When selecting sites at larger campgrounds, consider proximity to roadways. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA, Michael G. cautions, "Highway noise was terrible. So many open spaces and we're assigned a highway space. They obviously cater to seasonal campers."
Electric reliability issues: Some campgrounds may experience occasional utility problems. One RVer reported intermittent power outages at a local campground, affecting their ability to use TV, microwave, and other appliances.
Mobility considerations: Campsite layouts can present accessibility challenges. Burns G. noted about their Salamonie Lake site, "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible." RVers should call ahead to request specific information about site dimensions and terrain features.
