Campgrounds near Uniondale, Indiana range from secluded lakeside spots to urban recreational areas within 30 miles. Situated on the eastern edge of the Midwest plains, this region experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F in January while summer camping season peaks when temperatures reach the mid-80s in July and August.
What to do
Trail hiking at Ouabache State Park: Ouabache offers trail systems for both hikers and cyclists. "Love all the trails here, lots of options for how long of a hike you want to take! There's a surprising variation between more deciduous and coniferous environments depending on the trail you choose," notes one visitor to Ouabache State Park Campground.
Cycling to town: Several campgrounds connect to local towns via paved trails. "The paved bike trail in the park starts near the campground, and connects with a bike trail along the Wabash River that goes into nearby Bluffton, and is an easy ride," reports a camper who frequented Ouabache State Park.
Water recreation: Lakes and reservoirs provide fishing and boating opportunities throughout the region. At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," according to one family's experience.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Good bird watching spot. Lots of eagles. Nice place," notes a reviewer about Kil-So-Quah. Another visitor to Chain O' Lakes mentioned, "Lots of eagle sightings! Plenty of deer. Leaves are beautiful in fall."
What campers like
River access in urban settings: Urban campgrounds provide unexpected river recreation. "The park is connected to the river greenway which is a beautiful walk along the river!" notes a camper at Johnny Appleseed Campground.
Seasonal attractions: Fall and winter camping offer unique experiences. "Love this place for winter camping. The campground comfort stations are heated all winter long," shares a winter visitor to Ouabache State Park.
Modern facilities: Many campsites feature well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. Johnny Appleseed Campground receives particular praise: "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky while you take a shower."
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide prime camping locations. At Lost Bridge West, "If you can get a lake view site enjoy. Some spot are far away from the shower houses but you can drive to them. Nice marina with a great store and boat rentals."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Privacy levels differ significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "The campsites are variable, size and privacy definitely depends on the site you book," warns a visitor about Ouabache State Park.
Reservation systems: While many campsites accept reservations, some operate on first-come systems. At Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake, "No reservations so first come gets it. During the weekends it gets packed. Only 60 sites so show up early if you want one."
Water quality issues: Water quality concerns appear at multiple campgrounds. One camper noted about Ouabache, "The potable water is brown and smelly. Be sure to bring your water filter!"
Noise levels: Sound carries at some campgrounds. A visitor to Kil-So-Quah mentioned, "There is gunfire noise from the range across the lake. Not bad though." Urban campgrounds may have different noise profiles, with Johnny Appleseed visitors noting it "seems rather secluded, but is definitely in the middle of town."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds provide family-focused amenities. At Camp Timber Lake, "Escaped to this little place on the outskirts of Fort Wayne, Indiana and it was absolutely worth it. Everyone was nice including the neighboring campers. Most importantly, everything was kept very clean."
Water activities: Lakes and beaches provide summer entertainment. One visitor to Camp Timber Lake mentioned, "Next time we will have to try the zip-lines!" while Chain O' Lakes campers report their "beach is nice."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife exhibits provide learning experiences. "The kids loved the Bison," reports a family that visited Ouabache State Park, which features a bison enclosure.
Timing considerations: Weekday camping offers a quieter experience. At Kil-So-Quah, "During the week it's great. Hardly anyone here and so peaceful," though weekends can become "packed."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Water and sewer connections aren't universal at all campsites. At Ouabache, "Only draw back is no water and sewer hook up at the campsite," notes one RVer.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. At Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area, "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible. Some campsite s looked amazing and others looked to be in major need of some TLC."
Access concerns: Road conditions and campsite dimensions vary. "Most of the campsites were in need of a fresh layer of gravel for their parking pads," reported an RVer at Lost Bridge West.
Full hookup options: For those requiring complete amenities, select campgrounds offer comprehensive services. KOA Campground Bluffton provides "quiet place with super friendly people. There are laundry facilities on site and surprisingly good WiFi and we were even in the back!"
