Tent campsites near Schererville, Indiana range from minimalist backpacking sites to walk-in spots with basic amenities. The region features a mix of prairie, woodland, and waterfront camping options within 30-50 miles of Schererville. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more comfortable camping conditions in the 50-70°F range.
What to do
Water activities on the Kankakee River: Mac Finn's Landing offers access to prime fishing spots along the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers. According to a visitor, "One of the best no wake zones and fishing banks on the Kankakee River imo! Lots of access to great fishing holes up the Kankakee and Iroqouis Rivers. Kayak launch friendly!" This location serves as an excellent starting point for paddling adventures.
Cycling the I&M Canal Trail: Channahon State Park Campground provides direct access to the Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail. A cyclist noted, "The Illinois and Michigan Canal Trail passes right by camp. You can stop for a rest or stay the night. It's a nice stopping distance if you are riding from Chicago to Starved Rock. The trail is crushed gravel and is a beautiful ride."
Hiking at Kankakee River State Park: The Davis Creek Campground area features extensive trail systems with river views. A reviewer mentioned, "I have been here several times in high school and in my adult years. Lots of what i did was participate in cross country practice here. This campground is open, there are a lot of amenities, it's very well kept, and there is good access to water."
What campers like
Accessibility features: McKinley Woods: Frederick's Grove offers ADA accessible sites. A camper observed, "In McKinley Woods proper there is a large camping area and two of the sites have concrete pads for ADA accessibility. Further west along the I&M Tow Path is another camp site." The campground provides wheelchair-friendly tables and paved sites.
Privacy at Central Avenue: The Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Park feature secluded camping spots. A visitor commented, "The spot was clean. It's far enough off the trail that it provides plenty of privacy. The walk to the beach was not too long. Site one is the only site on the front end of the trail."
Beginner-friendly options: Camp Shabbona Woods caters to those new to outdoor recreation. According to a review, "camp suite is set up very well for first time campers or new people interested in trying out camping. The campgrounds do not have a lot of shade as new saplings are still growing. Caretakers were very helpful and did a great job keeping the campground clean."
What you should know
Park closure times: Many campgrounds in the region have strict closure hours. At Camp Shabbona Woods, "They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can't keep your vehicle close to your campsite."
Flooding potential: Some campsites experience water issues during heavy rains. A McKinley Woods camper reported, "Nothing was mentioned about this site being a flood zone. Our night went from on and off light rain to three hours of down pour rain. With that said our site was flooded once we woke up. We had three inches up the the fire pit."
Water quality concerns: While drinking water is available at some campgrounds, quality varies. At McKinley Woods, a camper noted, "Water is available by an old fashioned pump, and is drinkable, but cloudy."
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Tent camping near Schererville often includes background urban sounds. At Shabbona Woods, a camper observed, "Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background." Consider bringing white noise machines for light sleepers.
Space between sites: Mac Finn's Landing offers only 4 sites, limiting overcrowding and providing more space for families to spread out. The river access makes this location popular for family fishing trips.
Bathroom facilities: Many tent campsites near Schererville have limited facilities. McKinley Woods campers should note that "There's only one pit toilet" despite multiple campsites, which may require planning for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most camping areas near Schererville restrict RV access or provide no hookups. At McKinley Woods, one camper learned the hard way about access issues: "First off, we didn't realize this was a walk-in campground, the details on the Will county site were vague, and the satellite photo showed a paved road. The road is a path."
Trailer considerations: Small trailers can access some sites with effort. A camper at McKinley Woods explained, "We have a small, motorcycle trailer so we ended up rolling down hill 100 yds. then back again after our 2 night stay, a bit of a hassle, but not a problem. Just be aware of it."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate only during warmer months. The McKinley Woods Frederick's Grove campground operates from April through October, requiring RV campers to plan accordingly for seasonal access.
