Glamping in Syracuse, Indiana caters to campers seeking both modern comforts and natural surroundings. The northeastern Indiana region sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in a landscape dominated by lakes and gently rolling terrain. Weather can shift rapidly in this area, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms between June and August.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: The Barbie Chain of Lakes near Pic-A-Spot Campground offers connected waterways perfect for boating and fishing. "We have a blast!!!!! Bring your boat or watercraft! Plenty of lakefront camping spots on the barbie chain of lakes. Several (deep, clean) lakes hooked together by channels. Also hook into that big bass or musky!!" reports Adam M.
Hiking trails for all levels: Pokagon State Park features trails that connect with a nearby nature preserve, providing varied terrain options. A camper notes, "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do" while another adds, "Visited April 4, more people than I thought, but found a spot to be by myself."
Unique local Amish experiences: The region surrounding Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park offers authentic cultural experiences. "It is a very large older CG with a few upgrades. Clean, with decent amenities. We were only 25 min from Notre Dame and about an hour from lake Michigan," reports a visitor. The campground provides "Easy access to the Shipshewana Flea Market and E&S Sales (greatest bulk food shopping EVER!)"
What campers like
Clean facilities with modern amenities: Elkhart Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "Clean and friendly campground. Made reservations to stay again," writes Jessica H. Another camper adds, "It is family run and they are all wonderful! We had a nice spot not too close to anyone. The campground offers several amenities including basketball, pickle ball, horseshoes, putt-putt, swimming, laundry room, hot showers and a camp store."
Peace and quiet away from crowds: Less crowded camping options provide tranquility not far from attractions. "Small campground good for a visit to Shipshewana or stopover on a long trip. Staff are very nice and helpful, facilities are decent. It's nice to hear the clopping of the horse drawn carriages of the Amish every so often," notes Greg D.
Affordable primitive camping options: For budget-conscious campers, Chain O'lakes State Park offers cost-effective sites. "The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks. (Tent sites) For more, you can get electric hookup sites galore that all include a fire ring picnic table and a pretty leveled out spot," explains Clay T.
What you should know
Site selection impacts experience: Choose wisely when booking your spot at Ebys Pines Campground. "RV Sites are stacked on each other. We chose 306 and it was ok by the pond. No misquitos. Our friends had 310 and there was barely room to put their awning out," advises Leann O.
Wi-Fi limitations and cell coverage: Internet access varies widely across Syracuse area campgrounds. "Wifi is very slow. Verizon 2 bars," reports one camper, while another mentions, "We got 4 bars on Verizon but the CG Wifi wasn't all that great."
Seasonal fee structures: Several campgrounds have additional charges during peak seasons. "Stayed here 3 nights in October campground has most of the attractions (pool etc) closed as expected but still charged visitors $5 per person per day. And charged $5 per device per day for WiFi," notes Sean H.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities beyond swimming: Pla-Mor Campground offers multiple entertainment options. "Great campground for the family. Has in-ground pool, mini golf, small arcade room, camp store, playground and fishing," says Jeremy C. Another camper adds, "Lots of things to do with kids. Planned events, awesome putt putt, pool with splash area for littles. Multiple playgrounds, even a new one recently built."
Campsite location strategy: For families with young children, site selection matters. At Potato Creek State Park, "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust" while those seeking quiet can secure "a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere."
Pack for changing weather: Indiana summer weather patterns can shift quickly, with afternoon storms common in July and August. "We stopped here for a night on our cross-country trip, wish we had 2 nights because we had lots of thunderstorms," shares one family.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Potato Creek State Park Campground requires planning for utility hookups. "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up," advises Frank M. who continues, "Takes 10-15 mins to drive out of campground, so keep this in mind."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require preparation for uneven terrain. "Site was unlevel and ran into a hill on the back end. Not much space on ether side of us," reports Jackie F. Another RVer adds, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven" at some state parks.
Premium site options: For RVers wanting more spacious accommodations near Syracuse, several campgrounds offer upgraded options. "We've stayed on the deluxe patio sites a couple of times when they were available. They have patio table & chairs on extra wide concrete pad, gas grill, fire pit & seating area in back," reports an experienced camper.
