Cabin camping near Somerset, Indiana provides visitors with access to the Wabash and Mississinewa rivers for water recreation. The area sits within the Upper Wabash River Basin, featuring mostly flat terrain with occasional wooded hills that create secluded camping spots. Winter cabin rentals typically require advanced booking due to limited availability during the November through February period.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: France Park offers several well-maintained trails with varying difficulty levels. "I took a 5 mile hike and she spent the day on the beach and swimming in the crystal clear lake. There are sooooo many trails and they are very well maintained, although if it's rained, there may be standing water in some of the lower areas," notes a visitor to France Park.
Alpaca farm experiences: Some cabin rental properties include animal interaction opportunities. "We enjoyed helping to feed the Alpacas– they have over 50. The rooster crowed gustily at dawn (but dawn was after 7 am and we were already awake). Also on the farm is Stormy, the horse, chickens, and some barn cats," says a camper who stayed at Heritage Farm Alpaca Experience.
Water recreation: Many cabins are located near lakes with swimming, boating and fishing access. At Salamonie Lake, "Water view sites reserve quickly. No full hook-up. Beach within the park. Comfort Stations are fairly clean. 3 playgrounds. some woodsy sites. Visit Pirate's Cove Marina for supplies, wood, and boat rentals."
What campers like
Lake views: Several cabin locations offer views of nearby waterways. A visitor to Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area notes, "Sites 221- 243, 202-204 offer lake views. I say VIEWS, not access. Sites 228 & 232 have sites with good access to the lake."
Campground cleanliness: Many campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. "The bathrooms were clean, and the hot water was plentiful for my shower. It would have been nice if there were pet station placed around the campground to make it easy for dog walkers to rid themselves of their full poop bags," writes a visitor to Lost Bridge West.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting provides excellent night sky viewing. A Mississinewa Lake camper notes, "Clean sites, definitely seemed geared towards rv/campers but we fit in with our tent. Amazing spot for stargazing. Local trails are abundant and vary in difficulty. The lake was gorgeous and easy to get to within the park."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Winter cabin camping may include limited amenities. A visitor to Mississinewa Lake Campground explains, "Winter camping so no showers/ bathrooms. Great area, lots of wildlife. They have wifi (bye the water tower) nice lake, some trails. Gravel lot, pretty level. Not sure what summer is like but winter camping was great."
Limited groceries and supplies: Stock up before arrival as rural locations have few nearby stores. "Not many grocery stores in the immediate area, ensure you have what you need or plan to drive in to Peru (about 25-30 min away). Internet rarely worked and Verizon coverage was extremely minimal."
Bathroom conditions vary: Older facilities may have maintenance issues. "Downside was the bathrooms. The women's bathrooms had overflowing toilets the whole time we were there. They couldn't seem to figure out how to fix the problem. The men's bathroom plumbing was also had issues with the sink faucets."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin locations include play areas for children. At Bachelor Runn Campground, a camper shares, "We keep coming back for more. Disc golf. Hiking. Biking. Tent camping. Fishing. Lounging. Driving range. Always something to do. The best thing to do here in my opinion is relax in the shade with and good book while the kids play at the park."
Quiet environment: Many campgrounds enforce noise restrictions. A Mississinewa Lake visitor comments, "We've stayed twice over different holiday weekends and it's been quiet and no rowdy partying which is a plus for us since we have small children. I highly recommend giving Mississinewa a try!"
Pet policies: Check whether pets are allowed at cabins and beaches. "Campground was nice. Site was clean and level. People were friendly. Unfortunately, dogs aren't allowed on the beach. I understand that not everyone wants to be swimming with my dogs though."
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan ahead for end-of-stay services. A visitor to Camp Timber Lake observes, "There is pull through full hook up sites. But they are full sun and small sites. So no privacy." At some locations like Mississinewa, "when you are leaving there are 3 dump stations and it can get really really busy and long waits."
Water fill-up locations: Know where to access water before settling in. "Very nice campground. There are some spots with full hookups. Most are electric only. Down side is if you don't haul with water you better fill up at the full station when you see it cuz it gets busy."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access can be spotty in rural locations. A camper at Wildwood Outdoor Escape states, "He is good people are fine they publish that they offer free Wi-Fi however the Wi-Fi is so spotty it barely works. When asked about it they said they have new stuff but the old stuff is what they're using."
