Best Campgrounds near Valparaiso, IN

Several good camping sites sit within easy reach of Valparaiso, Indiana, with Indiana Dunes National Park being the main draw for most campers. Dunewood Campground in the national park has bigger sites and puts you close to both the dunes and beach areas. Many people also camp at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, which has good facilities and hiking trails nearby. Sand Creek Campground tends to be quieter and more basic, but it's not far from Valparaiso. You'll need reservations for most places, especially in summer when they fill up fast. Keep your food locked up since raccoons and deer will get into it if you don't. Check if fires are allowed before you go since rules change throughout the year. Most campsites are easy to get to, though you might need to carry your gear a short distance at some spots. Bug spray is a must in summer when mosquitoes get bad around here. Weather ranges from hot and humid in summer to cool at night in fall, so pack clothes for different conditions. The campgrounds around Valparaiso work well for hiking, swimming, or just hanging out by the fire.

Best Camping Sites Near Valparaiso, Indiana (63)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    123 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "There’s tons of trails to do along the lakeshore and none are really far from one another. I grew up in NWI so I didn’t camp in Indiana often but I did here and loved it!"

    "General: Dunewood campground is located within Indiana Dunes National Park, established in 2019 (The national seashore was established in the 1960s)."

    2. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $20 - $23 / night

    "The most beautiful state park in Indiana IMO."

    "The campground although nearly full was relatively calm and quiet. Unlike the craziness of other Indiana state parks I have visited."

    3. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-7482

    $30 - $90 / night

    "First time to Indiana with a quick trip to the Dunes. We were disappointed the state park was full but found this campground close by."

    "Privately-owned and just a short distance from Indiana Dunes. The owner was very nice and helpful at check-in."

    4. Michigan City Campground

    20 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 872-7600

    "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter."

    "It's easy access, clean spacious sites, and how quiet it was considering it proximity to S.R. 421 brought us back again this year. We visited Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park."

    5. Lakeshore Camp Resort

    16 Reviews
    Portage, IN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 762-7757

    $49 - $57 / night

    "A lake with water rentals, floating water slide, playgrounds and sport courts, general store with the stardust’s “convenience mark-ups”,and water/ electric at all sites."

    "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."

    6. Last Resort Campground

    11 Reviews
    Hanna, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 797-2267

    "We wanted a place close to my elderly parents house and Last Resort fit the bill. Overall it is a pleasant campground with a pool, a pond, and some weekend activities."

    "We were super close to fellow campers.On the other side of the grounds around the pond (electric only) sites were much bigger and secluded. Despite the tight space, the kids loved it here."

    7. Lake O' The Woods Club

    1 Review
    Valparaiso, IN
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (219) 241-0739

    $35 - $60 / night

    8. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance."

    "There are sand dunes in the park just walking distance from some campsites. You can climb these dunes to the beach ( a farther walk) or take a short drive. They have restrooms/showers."

    9. Woodland Village Mobile Home & RV Park

    1 Review
    Portage, IN
    11 miles
    +1 (219) 762-6578

    10. Potato Creek State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 656-8186

    $20 - $90 / night

    "I feel this is one of the best state parks in Indiana. Come with your own water as they don’t have water hookups at your campsite but there are some nearby. The sites are very spacious and clean."

    "Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust. Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up."

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Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Valparaiso, IN

594 Reviews of 63 Valparaiso Campgrounds



Guide to Valparaiso

Camping near Valparaiso, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds are close to Lake Michigan, making it easy to enjoy the beach. One camper mentioned, “The beach area was very nice. Campground was not,” highlighting the proximity to great beach spots.
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground said, “Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails.”
  • Visit local attractions: Campers can explore nearby attractions like the Indiana Dunes National Park. One reviewer noted, “Short drive to the beaches,” emphasizing the convenience of accessing local sights.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Warren Dunes State Park Campground stated, “Bathrooms were decent and we liked the private showers, warm water!”
  • Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. A visitor at Michigan City Campground said, “The staff is great. Very helpful and will work with you on taking care of your camp site.”
  • Spacious sites: Campers often mention the generous spacing between sites. One camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground remarked, “Our site was huge and the bathrooms were clean.”

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes can be a problem: Many campers warn about the bugs, especially in summer. A review for Tippecanoe River State Park Campground noted, “The mosquitoes are prolific and abundant!”
  • Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Warren Dunes State Park Campground mentioned, “Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful.”
  • Limited privacy: Campers should be aware that some sites are close together. A review for Weko Beach Campground stated, “The sites are close together and the fire rings are small.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for playgrounds: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A camper at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “Great playground on the east side of the first loop.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for family fun. One reviewer at Bear Cave RV Campground said, “The river is good for boats and pontoons.”
  • Pack bug spray: Given the mosquito issue, it’s wise to come prepared. A camper at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground advised, “Come prepared for mosquitoes in the summer.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A review for Bear Cave RV Campground warned, “Call beforehand if you are 40' or bigger.”
  • Look for electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake noted, “The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept.”
  • Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or other campers. A camper at Lakeshore Camp Resort mentioned, “The camp is a ten-minute drive from West Beach area of Indiana Dunes National Park.”

Camping around Valparaiso, Indiana, has its perks and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Valparaiso, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Valparaiso, IN is Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 123 reviews.

What parks are near Valparaiso, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Valparaiso, IN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.