Camping options around Star City, Indiana include both established park campgrounds and privately-owned facilities within 30 miles of town. Star City sits in flat prairie terrain with nearby lakes and rivers creating diverse camping environments. Sites near the Tippecanoe River offer fishing access while several campgrounds maintain hiking trails through former quarry landscapes.
What to do
Hiking trails and fire tower: At Tippecanoe River State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple hiking paths directly from the campground area. "There's some trails that can be accessed from the campground- Trails 1,3,4&5," notes Cynthia K. The park includes a fire tower that provides elevated views of the surrounding landscape, as Nicole B. explains: "fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies near Star City offer fishing options for campers. "Fishing was poor according to my husband," mentions Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe River, suggesting anglers might want to try alternate locations. The former quarry at France Park provides another fishing environment, with Wendy Z. describing it as a "Great place to fish. Beautiful waterfalls."
Quarry swimming: France Park features a swimming area in the former limestone quarry. "The swimming beach at the Quarry is very nice," reports Tammy F. The quarry water tends to be clearer than typical lake swimming areas. Jennifer K. found the quarry "beyond stunning and never what I expected to see in an Indiana park."
Star gazing events: Tippecanoe River State Park hosts organized astronomy activities. Monica C. shares: "Did participate in a star gazing event being held that weekend and it is still something my husband and I talk about regularly." These events typically run on select weekends during summer months.
What campers like
Primitive camping sites: For those seeking more secluded experiences, several parks offer primitive options away from RV areas. At France Park, Brian E. recommends: "Tent camping, hiking, fishing, clean showers, friendly employees and a fair amount of secluded primitive sites. We go here and camp on site UB 1 or 2 at least 5 weekends out of the year." These primitive sites often provide better separation than standard campground layouts.
Yurt camping Star City: While traditional camping remains popular, several parks have added yurt accommodations for those seeking glamping experiences near Star City, Indiana. Oak Lake RV Resort includes yurt options among their accommodation types. The resort maintains a family-friendly atmosphere with one visitor noting it's "where family memories are made."
River-adjacent locations: Sites positioned along rivers provide additional recreation options. At Wolfs Leisure Time Campground, Brian O. appreciates that "we have a tent and a canoe, so we really enjoyed the campsites they have by the river." Similarly, Rhonda B. found "The view was great of the river and we cooked chili over an open fire in the fire pit."
Heated pools: Several campgrounds maintain swimming pools for when natural water bodies aren't suitable. At Maple Ridge Campground, Brandon E. notes they have "almost all full hookup sites. newly remodled bathhouse with laundry and also a heated pool." These pools typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing swimming options regardless of river or lake conditions.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds near Star City. At Tippecanoe River State Park, Monica C. reports: "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service." Plan communications accordingly before arrival.
Mosquito preparation: The river areas can have significant insect activity in warmer months. Rob H. bluntly states Tippecanoe River State Park is the "Worst place for mosquitoes." Cynthia K. confirms: "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."
Site drainage after rain: Some campsites may collect water during heavy rainfall. Cynthia K. observes: "Our site ponded water after a rain, but soaked in fast." Similarly at France Park, Brian E. notes trail conditions can be affected: "There may be standing water in some of the lower areas."
Rules variations: Michigan City Campground and other facilities maintain different policies on activities and access. Amber P. points out that at some parks, there's "No alcohol, unfriendly staff, nice swimming area," highlighting the importance of checking specific regulations before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground-adjacent sites: At Tippecanoe River State Park, Cynthia K. advises: "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."
Weekend activities: Maple Ridge Campground organizes regular events for younger campers. Tony G. shares: "Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears. Nice pool and playground." Shayna E. confirms the owners "plan activities every weekend for the kids."
Water inflatables: Some campgrounds enhance their swimming areas with floating features. At Caboose Lake Campground, Riley J. explains: "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."
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Many families appreciate areas where children can safely ride bikes. Dawn K. describes Tippecanoe River State Park as having "Lots of kids riding bikes and playing at the playground. Almost every camper brings their dog. It is how camping should be!"
Tips from RVers
Site surface variations: RV leveling can be challenging at some locations. Brandon E. notes at France Park, "the sites are gravel and they used the huge gravel so it is hard to used stabilizers and also level your unit on." Check site composition before arrival.
Hookup locations: At Tippecanoe River State Park, Cynthia K. advises: "Get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse. There's 2 sides at the dump station." She also warns that some sites require extended utilities: "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."
Premium sites for connectivity: RVers requiring reliable internet should consider specific locations. At Indiana Beach Campground, Erin B. notes: "We had a very poor wifi signal. My husband had a hot spot from work and that was helpful. We were unable to get many channels on our tv with our antenna. If you have a satellite dish bring it."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds near Star City operate on limited schedules. Cynthia K. suggests timing visits strategically: "Spring & late fall would be a good time to visit" Tippecanoe River State Park to avoid peak mosquito season and crowds.
