The South Bend, Indiana region sits at approximately 725 feet above sea level in northern Indiana's St. Joseph River valley. RV camping in this area experiences seasonal swings with humid summers reaching 80°F and winters dropping below freezing. The flat terrain features numerous lakes and rivers, with most campgrounds positioned within 30 minutes of Notre Dame University.
What to do
Explore the St. Joseph River: Twin Mills Camping Resort offers excellent river access. "There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan," notes Jerry S., who also mentioned the interesting waterfall and bear cave attractions at the site.
Visit Bear Cave: Thousand Trails Bear Cave features a natural cave formation for exploration. "Very nice campground. They have a naturally formed cave that you can go down into for a small fee. A variety of things to do from fishing to the game room. Great family getaway," explains Ryan H.
Amish Country Tours: The region offers numerous Amish cultural experiences. "Shipshewana RV Park offers you access to the Flea Market. Things we found to do in the area: the flea market, visiting Shipshewana, Middlebury, and Elkhart, Windmill Museum, Black Pine Animal Sanctuary, RV Hall of Fame Museum, and the Pumpkin Bike Trail," shares Andrew M.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Maple Ridge Campground consistently receives praise for its upkeep. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," reports a camper simply identified as "Name" in their review.
Secluded settings: Lakeside RV Resort offers a tranquil atmosphere away from urban areas. "This campground has a private lake which is surrounded by farmland. Lots of primitive sites right next to the lake. Fire rings with no grate," explains J.S.
Recreational amenities: Many parks feature activities beyond just camping spaces. "Amenities: Pool, Clubhouse, Basketball, Volleyball, Picnic tables, Fire rings, Trash, Playground, Lake access, Beach area, Dock, Cabins, Tent sites," lists Laura H. about Twin Mills, highlighting the variety of facilities available.
What you should know
Railway noise concerns: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise issues. At Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney, one camper warned, "There is an active railroad nearby this campground. 4 Trains woke us up during the night. I won't stay here again."
Seasonal operations: Most rv parks South Bend, Indiana and surrounding areas close during winter months. Twin Mills Camping Resort operates from April 15 to November 1, while Thousand Trails Bear Cave runs May 1 to October 31.
Cell service considerations: Internet connectivity varies by location. At Bear Cave, one camper noted, "It's a very nice off the grid camping with no cell service but if you want wifi then its 5.95 per day or if you're here for a week + then 34.95 for the month up to 4 devices is your best bet."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-rich options: Elkhart RV Resort provides numerous family-friendly amenities. "This campground is close to home so we spent a couple days here so the kids could play while I worked. All staff was extremely helpful and friendly from the minute we pulled in. The facilities are older but clean and the amenities for kids are great," shares Brian H.
Swimming options: Pools are popular family features at many parks. "We love this quaint little campground. Great clubhouse with library, air hockey, beautiful views, but most of the coin operated games were out of order. The cave was closed with no plan to reopen in 2025. But even without the cave there was still a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall," explains Nick & Allyssa S. about Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
Kid-focused programming: Scheduled activities keep children engaged. "The owner operator campground where the family knows how to cater to the kids. Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears," reports Tony G. about Maple Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park features a unique site arrangement. "The Park offers mainly alternating pull-through sites which means you will be facing your neighbor's door not their street side of the camper. This makes for great buddy sites," explains Andrew M.
Seasonal booking challenges: RV camping near South Bend requires advance planning during peak times. "Most of the full hookups are taken 1st by the annuals. Sucks really but they do have an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around," mentions a camper named Jack about Bear Cave.
Early arrival fees: Some parks charge for early check-in. "No complaints other than a $15 (plus tax) charge for 45 minutes early check-in. Given the park was 2/3 empty that seemed unnecessary," notes Gary B. about Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park.
