Campsites near Upland, Indiana vary from established RV parks to more rustic experiences at the edge of small lakes and wooded areas. Located in the eastern Indiana region at about 860 feet above sea level, the area experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Fall camping from September to November offers colorful foliage displays while spring often brings muddy conditions to unpaved camping areas.
What to do
Water activities: swim, boat, fish: The pond at Kamp Modoc features inflatables and water toys that campers can use freely. "The pond was great with the inflatables and water toys available for use," notes Amy H. Sites are located close enough to water for easy access but far enough for safety.
Hiking trails: varied terrain: Trails at Kil-So-Quah - J. Edward Roush Lake range from easy walks to more challenging paths. "There is an overlook of Roush Lake where you can watch the sunset set the water on fire," reports Sadye H., who recommends avoiding summer holidays if you prefer less crowded conditions.
Wildlife viewing: eagles and waterfowl: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native wildlife, especially birds. "Lots of eagles," notes Erica A. about Kil-So-Quah. Quiet mornings and evenings provide the best viewing times, with binoculars recommended for spotting distant birds.
What campers like
Clean facilities: modern bathrooms: Johnny Appleseed Campground receives consistent praise for its restroom facilities. "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," shares Christie S. The facilities are code-locked to ensure only registered campers can access them.
Spacious sites: room to relax: Campers appreciate the generous spacing at White River Campground. "Very clean and efficient bathrooms. I especially like the roomy sites," Shelby B. mentions. Sites offer enough space for standard camping setups without feeling crowded.
Family activities: structured fun: Kamp Modoc organizes regular events for all ages. "Do you have kids? They have it covered, from playground, to lake with inflatables, train rides, Holiday fun," says Bodean D., while also noting adult activities like "Cornhole every weekend, Campfires, Holiday Events, Golf Cart Parades, DJ's or Live Bands."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping often brings mud, while summer temperatures can reach 90°F. Elevated campsites at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area Campgrounds provide better drainage. "Some campsites looked amazing and others looked to be in major need of some TLC. Most of the campsites were in need of a fresh layer of gravel for their parking pads," notes Burns G.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer months and weekends. Some locations like Kil-So-Quah operate on a first-come basis. "No reservations so first come gets it. Only 60 sites so show up early if you want one," advises Darrell B.
Road noise: Campgrounds near highways may experience traffic noise. "This is a great campground for RVs and cabins, but unfortunately not for tents as the highway 69 is too noisy," David C. mentions about Mystic Waters Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: multiple options: White River Campground features newly updated play equipment. "Park next door is great for hiking, has walk bridge over river to trails, horse backing riding, high ropes course," notes Jeremiah G., highlighting activities beyond the standard playground equipment.
Swimming areas: kid-friendly: Wildwood Outdoor Escape offers a small but well-maintained pool. "The pool is small but really nice, 4'6" deep. We found out the hard way toddlers who are not potty trained are not allowed in the pool even with swimmy diapers on," shares Sammii D., providing an important policy detail for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: Johnny Appleseed Campground connects to local history with its river location and proximity to Fort Wayne attractions. "This is a great little campground if you are wanting to explore Fort Wayne or are local and want to campout. Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping," says Tara W.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: what's available: Multiple power options exist across different campgrounds. White River Campground is divided into sections with varying hookup levels. "Campground is divided up into A-B-C sections. A is accessible. B is full hookup with sewer and C is water/elec only and tent camping," explains Jeremiah G.
Site leveling: prepare for slopes: Some sites require additional leveling equipment. Burns G. notes that at Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area, "The campsite did have a bigger than expected slope, but nothing horrible." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most areas.
Connectivity considerations: WiFi access varies widely between locations. At Wildwood Outdoor Escape, one camper reported, "He is good people are fine they publish that they offer free Wi-Fi however the Wi-Fi is so spotty it barely works. When asked about it they said they have new stuff but the old stuff is what they're using."
