Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers 112 electric campsites set among mature trees north of Rochester, Indiana. The park's wooded terrain ranges in elevation from 700 to 750 feet, with the river marking the property's eastern boundary. Most sites have gravel pads suitable for tents and RVs, with modern comfort stations featuring hot showers and flush toilets available from spring through fall. Average summer temperatures reach 85°F, making water activities particularly popular during July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At France Park, visitors can try their luck at the fishing lake or quarry. "Great place to fish. Beautiful waterfalls," notes camper Wendy Z., highlighting the combination of water recreation and scenic views available at this location.
Wildlife watching: Huntington Lake's Kil-So-Quah area offers excellent bird watching opportunities. "Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles," according to camper Erica A., who visited this natural area known for its diverse bird population.
Mountain biking trails: Potato Creek State Park maintains beginner-friendly mountain bike paths that connect with the paved bike system. One visitor noted, "The Peppermint Hill mountain bike/hiking loop was really fun and not to be missed," making it accessible for riders of various skill levels.
Climbing the fire tower: At Tippecanoe River State Park, the fire tower climb rewards visitors with panoramic views. "Fire tower climb was beautiful," reports Nicole B., making this a worthwhile short hike even for those on a brief visit to the park.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Tippecanoe River State Park Campground attracts visitors seeking a peaceful setting. "This is the place to go for a quiet simple camping trip. There is no pool or camp store and cell service is limited so it is a great place to get away from it all," explains Dawn K., highlighting the back-to-basics camping experience.
Fall colors: The mature forests in the area create excellent autumn viewing. "An autumn stay to Tippecanoe River State Park was about as good as it gets for us. Mature wooded campground. Plentiful level grassy tent spots to put up a tent," notes Gary S., suggesting that fall may be the optimal time for a visit.
Clean facilities: Campers at Pla-Mor Campground appreciate the well-maintained grounds. "They have an in ground swimming pool, mini golf, a driving range, laundry, an arcade and ice cream. It's a clean and well kept for campground," reports Mike F., describing the range of amenities available.
Stargazing opportunities: Dark skies create excellent nighttime viewing conditions. "Did participate in a star gazing event being held that weekend and it is still something my husband and I talk about regularly," shares Monica C., describing a memorable astronomy program at Tippecanoe River State Park.
What you should know
Cell service varies: Coverage depends on provider and location. "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service," reports a camper at Tippecanoe River, indicating Verizon generally performs better in the area.
Seasonal mosquito conditions: Insects can be problematic during summer months. "The mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May & they were just getting going. Spring & late fall would be a good time to visit," advises a visitor at Potato Creek State Park.
Water level fluctuations: Kil-So-Quah Recreation Area sometimes experiences changing water conditions. "The view was amazing even with the lake drained," notes Marc P., suggesting lake levels may vary seasonally or with water management practices.
Primitive facilities at some locations: Not all campgrounds offer full modern amenities. "No bathhouse just pit toilets. During the week it's great. Hardly anyone here and so peaceful," explains Darrell B. about Kil-So-Quah, highlighting that midweek visits offer more solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: When glamping close to Rochester, Indiana with children, select sites near play areas. "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground & you can watch your children from your site," advises a visitor to Tippecanoe River State Park, providing specific site recommendations.
Kid-friendly activities: Maple Ridge Campground plans regular events for younger campers. "The owners are very nice & plan activities every weekend for the kids," notes Shayna E., describing the family-oriented approach of this privately operated campground.
Glamping options for families: Sites offering alternative accommodations minimize setup time. "Lots of things to do with kids. Planned events, awesome putt putt, pool with splash area for littles. Multiple playgrounds, even a new one recently built," explains Abbie K. about Pla-Mor Campground, highlighting features beyond standard camping.
Short hiking options: France Park offers trails suitable for various ages. "Took the wife on a day trip just to scope out the area. What we found is a little piece of unexpected paradise! I took a 5 mile hike and she spent the day on the beach and swimming in the crystal clear lake," shares a visitor, noting the flexibility for different family members to enjoy separate activities.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup locations: At Tippecanoe River State Park, power access varies by site. "Get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse. There's 2 sides at the dump station," advises a camper, noting the central water fill location rather than at individual sites.
Pull-through availability: Limited options exist for easier access. "Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground," notes an RV owner about Tippecanoe River State Park, providing important information for those with larger rigs.
Site leveling considerations: Indiana Beach Campground offers prepared camping spots. "Our site was sunny in the morning and early afternoon with some shade beginning late afternoon. Had a concrete patio under the picnic table," reports Eric Y., describing the site layout and amenities.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are not universal. "We stayed in a pull through spot with full hook up and it was mostly quiet," mentions a camper about Indiana Beach, indicating that complete utility connections are available at select locations for those seeking glamping-style comfort near Rochester, Indiana.
