Royal Center, Indiana offers a mix of wooded lake settings and river access points for visitors seeking glamping and traditional camping experiences. Located in north-central Indiana at an elevation of approximately 700 feet, this area features multiple water bodies including the Tippecanoe River with its 182 miles of waterway and smaller lakes throughout the region. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F, while summer camping season typically sees highs in the mid-80s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: France Park features several fishing spots in its quarry lakes. According to a visitor, "Great place to fish. Beautiful waterfalls" (Wendy Z.). The crystal-clear quarry water provides excellent visibility for spotting fish.
Fire tower climbing: Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers a fire tower climb that rewards visitors with panoramic views. A camper noted, "fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax" (Nicole B.). This activity requires only a short hike to reach the tower.
Water activities beyond swimming: At Caboose Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy water inflatables, bumper boats, and unlimited paddle boat rentals for $10 per day. A reviewer mentioned, "Super clean water and beach area with inflatables- so fun! They do require wristbands which cost 10$ a day but that includes bumper boats and unlimited paddle boat rentals" (Riley J.).
Waterfall viewing: Multiple small waterfalls can be found within a 30-minute drive of Royal Center. One camper at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area shared, "I really enjoyed camping here!! We camped in a tent had a fire went hiking found little waterfalls and there is another part that allows horses!!" (Bria M.).
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some glamping sites near Royal Center offer secluded spots away from crowds. At Big Fish-n-Camp Ground, a camper reported, "We scored the most private area for sure. It was tucked all the way at the back of the second pond and surrounded by trees and a cornfield" (Jennifer K.).
Unexpected amenities: The less-developed glamping options still provide comfort touches. A visitor to Wolfs Leisure Time Campground noted, "They have a little arcade hall, have bingo, a swimming pool, basketball court. We were busy with kids activities so we didn't really get to enjoy the park a whole lot but staff seemed friendly" (Baylee W.).
Natural scenery: The varied landscapes around Royal Center appeal to nature enthusiasts. One visitor to France Park shared, "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" (Big Tank F.).
Balance of development and nature: Campers appreciate areas that maintain natural features while providing basic comforts. A reviewer stated, "Love this place. Have been camping here for decades and for me this place has a great balance of amenities and natural sceneries and spaces" (Randy A.).
What you should know
Seasonal pest concerns: Mosquitoes can be problematic during peak summer months. A Tippecanoe River State Park visitor warned, "Worst place for mosquitoes" (Rob H.), while another advised, "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" (Cynthia K.).
Cell service variation: Reception varies widely between glamping locations near Royal Center. One camper at Tippecanoe River State Park noted, "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service" (Monica C.).
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience road or neighbor noise. A visitor to Caboose Lake Campground mentioned, "Loud road noise. Planted trees around pond have grown up to provide more privacy" (Sarena W.).
Water level fluctuations: Riverside glamping sites may experience seasonal changes. A camper at Lost Bridge West noted, "A lot of the campsites were closed due to flooding but we managed to have a site that was untouched" (Shasta K.).
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: At Tippecanoe River State Park, "For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground & 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 & you can watch your children from your site. Avoid if you dislike the sound of children playing" (Cynthia K.).
Child-friendly amenities: Oak Lake RV Resort offers family activities that keep children entertained. A visitor noted, "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp" (Sadie H.).
Budget-friendly options: Some glamping sites near Royal Center offer affordable family activities. Indiana Beach Campground provides "decently discounted tickets to Indiana Beach amusement park" (Marc W.) for guests who stay at their location.
Educational opportunities: Several locations feature natural learning experiences for children. Lost Bridge West offers trails where families can see "the effects of flooding" (Shasta K.), providing educational moments during a glamping trip.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites require extra preparation. A camper at France Park mentioned, "the sites are gravel and they used the huge gravel so it is hard to used stabilizers and also level your unit on" (Brandon E.).
Hookup locations: Electric connections at some sites require planning. At Tippecanoe River State Park, "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up" (Frank M.).
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist in the area. A camper noted, "Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground" at Tippecanoe River State Park (Cynthia K.).
RV height clearance: Tree coverage varies between glamping locations near Royal Center. Tippecanoe River State Park has "nice shade trees in all the sites" (Cynthia K.), which provides comfort but may present challenges for taller RVs.
