Top Tent Camping near Valparaiso, IN

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Best Tent Sites Near Valparaiso, IN (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

    1. Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    24 Saves

    Overview

    Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles (24 km) of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres (6070 ha) will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles (80 km) of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

    Recreation

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Facilities

    There is no one-size-fits-all trip to the dunes. Each season offers new and different ways to enjoy Indiana Dunes National Park. Spring splashes the river banks of the Heron Rookery with an abundance of colorful wildflowers in this birder's paradise. Lake Michigan summer sunsets paint the skies with vibrant rays that offer a picture-perfect picnic setting. In the fall, Maple trees burst with warm red and golden hues crafting a spectacular backdrop for a hike by the Chellberg Farm and winter brings a scenic canvas of virgin white snow begging for a cross-country skiing adventure in the Glenwood Dunes.__ As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities, park facility operating hours and closures and safety concerns. Here is a list of some of the activities that occur in the National Park: Beach-going & Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Interpretive Programs, Picnic, Winter Activities and Guided Tours. Check the Calendar page on our website for our list of Ranger-led programs.

    Natural Features

    Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. The national park features communities that have both scientific and historic significance to the field of ecology. In addition, four National Natural Landmarks (including Pinhook Bog and Cowles Bog ) and one National Historical Landmark (the Bailly Homestead) are located within its boundaries.____ The park is comprised of over 15,000 acres (6070 ha) of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. It contains 15 miles (24 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the distance from Gary to Michigan City. Lake Michigan is part of the largest complex of freshwater lakes in the world. The national park's beaches are the park's most significant recreational resource.__ For more information on our natural features visit the Nature and Science page on the park website.

    Nearby Attractions

    Central Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan is located nearby, less than 5,000 feet (1524 m) from the campground. Several other national park beaches are within easy driving distance. A gas station / convenience store is located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southwest of the campground on U.S. Highway 12. The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad station with passenger service to Chicago and South Bend is located on Broadway Avenue. Indiana Dunes Tourism and LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau have lists of other activities in the area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (camping reservations cancelled the day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus a forfeiture of the first night's use fee.__ For more information please review Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies.__

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Toilets

    $25 / night

    • No image available

      2. Camp Shabbona Woods

      1 Review
      37 Saves
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $30 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      3. Davis Creek Campground - Kankakee River State Park

      2 Reviews
      2 Photos
      12 Saves

      Davis Creek Campground is available by reservation for chaperoned youth and church groups. All areas require camping permits, available at the park office or from park personnel in state vehicles. Groups of 25 or more are required to obtain a free activity permit from the park office.

      • Reservable
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing
      Camper-submitted photo from Mac Finn's Landing

      4. Mac Finn's Landing

      1 Review
      16 Photos
      24 Saves

      Tent camping fishmermen's retreat.

      Parking Available for guests.

      Boat friendly. (Kayak rental Available.)

      Season ending December 1st, 2022.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $35 - $50 / night


    Recent Tent Reviews In Valparaiso

    559 Reviews of 4 Valparaiso Campgrounds


    • PThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Lake RV Resort
      Oct. 28, 2024

      Oak Lake RV Resort

      Quiet, nice place.

      Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom.

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Oct. 22, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Great for short stay

      I’m very familiar with Warren Dunes but this was my first time camping here. Great walks and hikes and the short drive to the beach is a plus. The sites aren’t too private and can fill up quickly. The bathrooms were clean and stocked. I read lots of reviews about the noise from the road and nearby highway and I didn’t think it would bother me, but I was wrong. I wish I had some ear plugs because I had difficulty falling asleep. Overall great place, especially for beginner campers as there is a small onsite store for camp basics. Three stars due to noise and not much privacy.

    • TThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Sullivan
      Oct. 21, 2024

      Camp Sullivan

      Urban Camping near Chicago

      Camp Sullivan offers a charming and well-maintained space for campers of all kinds, from tent enthusiasts to RV travelers like us. All the RV sites here are back in, and while they are tight, they are certainly manageable. We brought our 36-foot RV, the Badger, and although it barely fit, we were able to position it close enough to the power box by choosing not to extend the slide. This turned out to be a smart decision, considering the timbers that line the gravel surface of the site. These timbers add a bit of a challenge when maneuvering a larger rig, and in our case, (note to staff) removing the timber closest to the road would have made things much easier. 

      Each RV site is equipped with 15, 30, and 50-amp electrical connections, though it’s worth noting that there’s no water or sewer available at individual sites. As a result, water conservation becomes essential. The bathrooms here, however, are clean and well-kept, which is always appreciated, especially after a few days without on-site water. There is also a stainless steel sink for use in front of the RV area's bathroom where you can do dishes.

      Security at Camp Sullivan feels solid, and while there is some noise, it wasn’t disruptive. We stayed over a weekend, and though there was a lively group in the group campsite Saturday night, they respectfully wrapped up their activities by quiet hours, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. 

      The roads throughout the campground are in good condition, and the trees aren’t a concern for your RV clearance. In addition to RV sites, Camp Sullivan offers a range of accommodations for all kinds of campers. There are small rental cabins, large bunkhouses for group camping, and plenty of tent sites spread across the grounds. We didn’t have the chance to check out the"Barn" yet, but it’s a major feature here, housing a climbing wall and concessions. 

      We also noticed staff busy cleaning the bunkhouse areas and taking care of trash removal, even on a quiet Sunday. Everyone we encountered was friendly and added to the overall positive vibe of the place. Camp Sullivan is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, (up to six days allowed) with plenty of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where we feel comfortable and cared for, with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

    • Amy S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park
      Oct. 5, 2024

      Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

      Safe and comfortable campground

      Convenient to Indiana dunes, each site is easily accessible and spacious. The facilities are fairly clean and showers are available though we didn’t use them. Would recommend as a stop over. As a solo female traveler I felt safe.

    • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bullfrog Lake
      Sep. 15, 2024

      Camp Bullfrog Lake

      Pretty great!

      I somehow booked a different campground- website was confusing apparently. However the worker was so helpful and found me a spot anyway. Sites are kind of small so not a lot of space for big big campers. Cute lake and relatively quiet. Odd though that when I asked questions like where can we fill water and if they had a park map I got looked at like I had 3 heads.

    • Sergio D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Caboose Lake Campground
      Sep. 5, 2024

      Caboose Lake Campground

      Worst place to stay at

      Highway is louder than you’d think. No good night rest had. People spy on you just to report you. Main office head woman will not work with you and just give you a flat no when you ask about a refund.

    • h
      Camper-submitted photo from Dream Acres Campground
      Aug. 26, 2024

      Dream Acres Campground

      Love this place

      I had a seasonal spot last year and I absolutely loved it! We went camping as much as we could(cause of work) owners and other campers are friendly. They do crafts and other things on almost every holiday

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jul. 23, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Great place to stay for a few days!

      Stayed for 3 days/2 nights. Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful. Most spots were fairly out in the open, but we had a nice spot with a few trees hiding us on 3 sides and not too far from water or bathroom trail. Bathrooms were decent and we liked the private showers, warm water!

      Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!

      The only major downfall was the price of everything at the little store. $6 for an ice cream sandwich!?! No thanks! However, be sure to visit The Beach Bucket for your ice cream cravings on those hot days!! They also have firewood which burned so much better than what the camp store offered.

    • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park
      Jul. 22, 2024

      Tippecanoe River State Park

      Friendly park security

      We arrived late, and the friendly park security directed us to the campground.

      The vault toilets were acceptably clean. Spots were close to the river. The campground has cabins, trails for hiking and horseback riding.

      As other reviews have stated….the mosquitoes are prolific and abundant! We left early.

    • Rebekah J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jul. 11, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Lots of road noise and LOTS of mosquitoes

      Stayed at site 201 at the Hildebrandt campground. Sites are smallish. Most sites have some shade, but little privacy in between. The scenery wasnt that great, mostly vine like trees you'd see in a flood plain. The water pump was out during our stay and needed to go to the station near the modern campground.

      We were scheduled to stay for 3d/2n but plans changed due to weather from hurricane beryl. It started to rain in the first evening and we had a mini creek running through our site. With the amount of rain projected to be on its way we could only imagine it being completely flooded.

      Mosquitoes were awful even before the rain. Vault toilets were well taken care of.

      If you want quite or the sound of nature, this campground is not for you. You can hear road traffic and trains at all times, especially at night. The general store near the campground entrance is a nice convenience if you forgot something or need ice/fire wood.

      It is wonderful though how close the Campground are to Lake Michigan/warren dunes, which is why we stayed.

    • Joe A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ruperts Resort Campground
      Jul. 7, 2024

      Ruperts Resort Campground

      Very nice and enjoyable place keep things simple and fun cheap too easy on the money 💰

      Nobody complaining it's big enough if you want to be loud late you can the people that have a rv all year round are all nice and cool I ran in to just about every one all nice I recommend Ruperts resort in Indiana Plymouth 😉 they have showers and restrooms too if it's raining they have huge spots to go out of the rain you can bring corn hole or any game you like to bring plus more than I can say 4th July was grrreeat!

    • j S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River Run
      Jun. 29, 2024

      Tippecanoe River Run

      Very quiet, nice place, stargazing was better than expected

      Online reservations is a bit confusing. Map designated tent sites with numbers. When you book campsites they have letters with no map or site pics. You have to book a site but it says first come first serve. Good place for fishing from bank and launching kayak, canoes.

    • D G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 24, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Better for a Day Trip

      Went with my in laws who have a camper (I typically camp rustic). The site we were at was smaller and narrow. There was also a lot of noise from the I-94 freeway nearby while trying to sleep.

      While the hiking was good and the beach beautiful, they don’t allow alcohol which is my favorite post hike/beach activity.

      Overall I’d do a day trip for the hiking and beach, but stay elsewhere.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Excellent park

      While, this state park seems relatively small. The spaces are very big. They have a great little general store. The beach is just down the drive. Mood is mellow and relaxing place. Small con-a little bit of flooding. Despite other reviews online no radiation from the nuclear power plant.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Weko Beach Campground
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Weko Beach Campground

      Campground review

      The sites are randomly laid out and on top of each other. The bathhouse looked bad. You could hike the wooden walkway trails over the dunes easily. Pay to park public beach was very close.the beach area was very nice. Campground was not.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Warren Dunes State Park

      Near the dunes and a nice public beach

      This campground is a place to stay while you visit the huge dunes. Developed sites are very small and close together. Sand/grass pads that are not defined. Undeveloped or tent area was almost empty and bigger but no electric. Cabin area has best sites. Cabins are small. Limited toilets. Public beach was nice...quite a few people. Separate area for dogs to play on the beach. Hike the dunes for a great workout

    • k
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake
      Jun. 1, 2024

      Hickory Hills Campground at Bass Lake

      AWFUL!

      We just went there last night and woke up came home immediately! There was nothing to do at all! A run down park, lake and sites. There was boards with nails just laying all around the park. Not to mention the park was falling apart. It was more of a trailer park than a camping site. The garbage can was overflowing all over the ground. We payed for 2 nights and owner never got back to me to get our money back for tonight! Would not recommend one bit.

    • Joel K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park
      Feb. 21, 2024

      Tippecanoe River State Park

      Very good state park and cabin campground

      We visited this park twice (once in Sept 2020 and again in June 2021).  Both times we stayed in the cabin campground and both times had very good experiences.  Each time we went mid-week so there was hardly anyone else there, and that was great.  The cabins are small but perfectly fine for our group with two bunk beds, a small loft, and a small table inside.  They have electricity so charging phones and devices is not a problem.   Cabins 4 and 5 are up this small driveway and are slightly separated and I would recommend those if you can.  We never had to go to "town" so not sure how far it is to any stores.

      Each time we rented a canoe and did a paddle/float trip on the river that ended at the canoe rental location.  Would not hesitate to stay here again.

    • ssarahkat999
      Camper-submitted photo from Fullers Resort and Campground on Clear Lake
      Jan. 23, 2024

      Fullers Resort and Campground on Clear Lake

      Peaceful lake camping

      It's set on a beautiful man made lake. There is no big waves to worry about on clear lake. Kiddos can catch minnows in calf deep water at the beach. The campsites are beautiful. I suggest the ones up the hill on your right when you enter. The ones that you drive down the hill to have more mosquitos. Karaoke every Saturday in the barn is fun for everyone. There not the most dog friendly though all around the campground. You allowed to have you dogs on only a small part of the beach. I assumed the dog friendly area included the boat laund area but I was wrong. We were talking to another family of campers by the boats with our dog and the owner came down with rage written all over his face and told us we can't be 10 feet away from what I know know is the 10 feet of gravel beach dogs are allowed on. He literally raised his voice and yelled at us and said we were disturbing the family that was happily standing there talking to us about our shihtzu and the kids were petting them. That's my one complaint about fullers is if that man doesn't like what your doing even if it's not a posted rule hell yell at you. He's made my sister with social anxiety cry a few times over the years with his anger. It's a beautiful peaceful camp ground though. I've been going there every summer sence I was a toddler. All the girls who work in the camp store are bubbly and nice. They have the best ice cream! The lake is beautiful with no waves and the waters allot warmer then the bigger lakes. They play some really nice relaxing vibe music from the store balcony. They also have hay rides!

    • Carrie S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Rvino - Lost Acres, LLC
      Dec. 21, 2023

      Rvino - Lost Acres, LLC

      Lost Acres in Monticello Indiana

      This is a beautiful family orientation campground. There is something for everyone. Playgrounds, new pool, kids activities, corn hole tournaments, fishing pond. Camp ground is clean and well managed now. Our new GM Shara is fabulous. If you are looking for a place to camp for a weekend or as a seasonal, I would say come and see for yourself. Once you get there you won't want to leave!



    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 tent campsite near Valparaiso, IN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Valparaiso, IN is Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Valparaiso, IN?

      TheDyrt.com has all 4 tent camping locations near Valparaiso, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.