Camping sites near Schererville, Indiana center primarily around the southeast shore of Lake Michigan within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the boundary between the Central Lowlands and Great Lakes Basin, creating diverse camping terrain from wooded areas to sandy shores. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with frequent humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.
What to do
Hiking the dune trails: The 3 Dune Challenge at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground offers a moderately difficult hike across the three tallest dunes. "The 3 dune challenge is not really a challenge if you are moderately healthy but it is fun and scenic! The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," notes one camper.
Mountain biking: Camp Bullfrog Lake provides direct access to extensive trail systems. "What's great about this location is the access to the miles and mile of MTB and hiking trails just out the front step of your campsite," explains a reviewer. The trails accommodate varying skill levels with both technical and beginner-friendly sections.
Kayaking and fishing: Several camping areas offer water recreation opportunities. At Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park, campers have "access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open." Fishing opportunities exist at multiple campgrounds, with some like Lakeshore Camp Resort stocking their ponds.
What campers like
Proximity to Chicago: Camp Bullfrog Lake serves as a convenient escape from urban life. "We live 15 minutes away so like to take midweek camping trips to break up the work week," shares one local camper. The campground's location makes it ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and shower facilities. At Sand Creek Campground, campers appreciate the "bathrooms with showers and outlets and places to put your stuff. It was clean and quiet." The attention to cleanliness enhances the camping experience, especially for tent campers.
Security features: Michigan City Campground offers enhanced security measures. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean," notes a camper. This gated access provides peace of mind, particularly for families with children or those leaving equipment at camp while exploring the area.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds experience significant train disturbances. "The only reason I rate this park a three is that it's very close to train lines and the trains going through and blasting their horns all night long," reports a camper at Indiana Dunes State Park. Light sleepers should consider earplugs or sites farther from tracks.
Seasonal popularity: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. At Michigan City Campground, one camper noted: "When I enquired about the advertised late checkout, they didn't have the availability to do that so I'm guessing you'll want to book ahead." Reservations should be made weeks, sometimes months in advance.
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs significantly across the area. Camp Sullivan campers mention that "the campsites are TINY. We were in a modest pop up and still felt crowded," while others note that "sites were decently private" at Dunewood Campground. Research site maps before booking when privacy is a priority.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Lakeshore Camp Resort offers family-friendly swimming facilities. "This was a fun campground. We were there the week before peak season opened so none of the pools or splash pads were open, but they were very accommodating so that we could still play mini golf and ride around on the pedal cars," writes one visitor. Call ahead to confirm seasonal amenities.
Cabin options: Several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations ideal for families new to camping. "The tent sites were nice and located around the perimeter. My boys did like that there was a very nice pool," notes a Sand Creek Campground visitor. Cabins typically cost $75-120 per night depending on amenities and season.
Playground facilities: Camp Sullivan features family-oriented recreational areas. "We camp here at least 2 times per year and have only had good experiences. Clean facilities, good hikes and good campsites (either in the woods or out of the woods)," shares a regular visitor with young children. Many campgrounds provide dedicated play areas away from RV traffic.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Dunewood Campground offers limited amenities for larger rigs. "25$ a night no electric much but a park pass also for 25$," notes one RVer, highlighting the need to plan for boondocking. Most campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, but water and sewer connections vary significantly.
Site length considerations: Many campgrounds have specific sections for larger vehicles. At Camp Bullfrog Lake, an RVer observed: "Sites #4 and 5 probably have the longest length parking pad." Rigs over 35 feet should verify site dimensions before booking, especially at older campgrounds with tighter layouts.
Dump station timing: During peak weekends, campground facilities can become congested. At Indiana Dunes State Park, "two dump stations made wait minimal" according to one RVer. Plan arrivals and departures outside peak checkout times (usually 11am-1pm) for easier access to water fill and dump stations.
