Best Tent Camping near Wakarusa, IN

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Wakarusa? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Wakarusa, Indiana's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Wakarusa, Indiana (11)

    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Shady Point Campground near Vandalia, MI

    1. Shady Point Campground

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    16 Saves
    Vandalia, Michigan
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday near Watervliet, MI

    2. Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday

    13 Reviews
    12 Photos
    64 Saves
    Watervliet, Michigan

    This family-owned, nationally recognized, award-winning KOA is the closed to beautiful Lake Michigan, providing guests with top-notch services, amenities and unrivaled proximity to nearby beaches, orchards, vineyards, kayaking rivers and other popular attractions. The parklike setting features mature trees with a canopy of trees, paved roads and well maintained grounds with a peaceful atmosphere that makes this the best place to be. The attentive, friendly team will meet and exceed your expectations, whether you stay in a tent, an RV or one of the 20 lodging options including Camping Cabins, Deluxe Cabins and Glamping tents. Enjoy the heated pool, Jumping Pillow, fishing pond, bike rentals, mini golf, playground, Gem mining, cable TV, Wi-Fi, wooded nature trail, general store and Campfire Café serving Hunt Brothers pizza. Planned activities and themed weekends held throughout the summer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $60 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area near Orland, IN

    3. Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    6 Saves
    Orland, Indiana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Harper Lake Campground near Wolflake, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Lakeside Campground near Vandalia, MI

    5. Lakeside Campground

    Be the first to review!
    1 Save
    Vandalia, Michigan
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo at Circle B RV Park and Cabins near Angola, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN
    Camper-submitted photo at Central Avenue Walk-in Sites — Indiana Dunes National Park near Beverly Shores, IN

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

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    28 Saves
    Beverly Shores, Indiana

    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.

    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

    Camper-submitted photo at Goff Lake Campground near Marcellus, MI

    8. Goff Lake Campground

    Be the first to review!
    4 Saves
    Marcellus, Michigan
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Mandi B.'s photo of tent camping at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI
    Camper-submitted photo at Campside Michigan near Bridgman, MI

    9. Campside Michigan

    Be the first to review!
    9 Photos
    Bridgman, Michigan

    Campside is situated on 5 private acres in Southwest Michigan within walking distance to Downtown Sawyer.

    Located just minutes from several Lake Michigan Beaches, Warren Dunes, a wide variety of Wineries and Breweries, Campside's location is ideal for exploring the area or just relaxing.

    ​Three fully furnished sites offer convenience and privacy. And one site where you can bring your own gear.

    No cars or other campers are within sight.

    Rent one or rent them all. From family gatherings to girls getaways, first time campers to bachelor parties, Campside promises a time you'll never forget.

    Pinkie promise.

    RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    • Trash

    $75 - $150 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at American Campground near Hartford, MI
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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Wakarusa, Indiana

499 Reviews of 11 Wakarusa Campgrounds


  • Laura H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Mills Camping Resort
    Apr. 23, 2020

    Twin Mills Camping Resort

    Beautiful Wooded Campground

    Twin Mills is a really beautiful and quiet RV Campground, with tall trees in Northern Indiana. We frequent this location when getting RV Repairs and visiting Elkhart, the birth place of most RVs.

    There are cabins and tent sites and a large lake access point with a beach area. The playgrounds seemed to be in good shape and the dumpsters were centrally located.

    The park has a gate entrance for security.

    There is a large pool area and basketball court.

    There are several sections in the park, some more wooded and narrow sites, some are more spread out.

    Cellular: T-Mobile had good signal strength and bandwidth, AT&T was not as good but still doable.

    Most of the sites are full hook up, some have 30amp and some have 50amp.

    Amenities: Pool Clubhouse Basketball Volleyball Picnic tables Fire rings Trash Playground Lake access Beach area Dock Cabins Tent sites

  • Michelle H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park Campground
    May. 6, 2018

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Great camping experience

    After camping in Maryland it was nice to have a large more inviting spot. Perfect for tent camping. Camp store has all you need. The dunes are epic and swimming in Lake Michigan was great. Have returned many times and is our go to park.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Ebys Pines
    May. 16, 2019

    Ebys Pines

    Good little weekend getaway

    Lot sizes do vary, pull through lots are a good size. If you like tent camping this place has a great tent/pop up only section on the river. Excellent dog run. Pool is dated but it actually is open. I tend to use this place to open up my TT or to close it Down for the season.

  • Jessica L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Jul. 28, 2016

    Potato Creek State Park Campground

    Activities for all seasons...

    ...although you probably wouldn't want to camp in the Indiana winter. I grew up coming here mostly to sled on the hills! But, there is a lot more to do. It surrounds Worster Lake and there are cabins, RV sites, and tent sites along with horse trails and bike trails. In the winter, there's sledding hills and ice fishing. The campgrounds are pretty standard, nothing special. If you live in the area, it's a fine little getaway.

  • Brandon E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Jun. 19, 2017

    Potato Creek State Park Campground

    great state park with lots to offer

    took my son on a father son camping trip! normaly i would bring my 32 foot camper but we roughed it for the weekend and tent camped. sites were smooth and level and well taken care of. lots of nice walking and biking trails and a big electric motor only fishing lake and nice beach.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Cade Lake County Park & Campground
    Sep. 8, 2022

    Cade Lake County Park & Campground

    Beautiful

    Stayed sept 2022, $30 tent site (no electric). Its $40 with electric. Arrived after office hours, campground gated, but host was super friendly and helpful! The grounds are immaculate. Bet it's very popular in summer. Beautiful place, wish I could have stayed a lot longer.

  • 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.

  • Clay T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite
    Dec. 26, 2024

    Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite

    "Free, never heard of that app."

    Although it states in the app free dispersed camping. Doesn't always mean just that. 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.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground
    Jul. 5, 2016

    Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground

    Chain O Lakes State Park

    Campground at Chain O Lakes State Park is a moderately wooded campground with standard sites. Some camping sites are more private than others and caters to RVs since many of sites are not level. They have a primitive loop with flat sites which makes for great tent camping. The beach is a fun activity for the kids and there are several lakes linked together via narrow creeks which can used by canoes and kayaks.

  • Leann O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ebys Pines
    Aug. 8, 2020

    Ebys Pines

    Tight sites, be careful which you choose

    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. Lots of kids, pool full on the weekends. Good thing it's close to Bonnieville Park. The tent sites looked nice. Wifi is very slow. Verizon 2 bars

  • Beth B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Michigan City Campground
    Jul. 10, 2018

    Michigan City Campground

    Great, secure, family friendly campground

    Stayed here 2 nights in the group tent camping area. Plenty of space to spread out and good firepits. Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update. The only complaint of the weekend of the garbage pickup at 11pm, very loud, and the fireworks being set off until after midnight (outside of the campground so out of campgrounds control). Will definitely be back if we are in the area!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Eden Springs Park Campground
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Eden Springs Park Campground

    Great Family Camp Ground

    We have only stayed in the tent sites but love it. Our kids ride around the circle on their bikes, they love the train rides, its always fun to walk around the grounds and learn about the history. Nice short trip in to St. Joe or Benton Harbor. We got take and bake pizza from Silver Beach Pizza and cooked it over the fire. 

    Bathrooms are clean, showers are warm. We enjoy this place.

  • Katelyn K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park Campground
    Aug. 30, 2017

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Great for one night!

    I stopped here with my dog for the night. The semi-modern or tent sites have okay privacy. Some sites like 18 and 19 (where I stayed) share space so those sites would be great for groups. Could hear the traffic from the local highway but it wasn't too bad, I still slept well. The grounds were prettt empty but I was there on a Tuesday night before Labor Day.

    The dunes and dog beach were perfect for Clutch to expel energy after a long drive.

    These grounds would be perfect for a night or two or if you have a larger group.

    FYI: Vault toilets

  • Gay G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bear Cave
    Aug. 19, 2021

    Thousand Trails Bear Cave

    Great Campground

    This is a nice, family friendly campground. Lots of very friendly other campers, a heated pool, playground for the kids, nice size lots with fire pits, picnic tables, electric& water (including at tent sites). Pool has an ADA lift chair. 2 shower/bath houses, camp store, a real bear cave you can tour in (free), a creek that meanders through it. The resort sits on the St. Joseph river & this park has a boat ramp & dock for fishing. There is a gate that campers need a code to get into so it keeps out unwanted’s. Nice staff. Yolanda is a great manager. Security, a ‘honey wagon’. Laundry center. Quiet hours are 10p-8a. It’s near Buchanan Michigan and the RED BUD Motor Cross track. Very friendly people, always stopping and talking.

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shamrock Park
    Nov. 12, 2020

    Shamrock Park

    Great for fishing

    We wanted to stay at Warren Dunes State Park, but I think this discovery was a better choice. A clean and friendly municipal campground on the St. Joseph River. The grounds are mostly open with little shade, but we had a tent site by the river and trees. What impressed me most was that they have a building specifically for cleaning fish, with scales, cutting boards and sinks. Another nice feature is the outdoor sink at the shower & restroom building for campers to wash dishes. As tent campers I wish more places had a set up like that. There’s a large stack of firewood, so it’s easy to get a bundle that’s good and dry. We did go to Warren Dunes for an afternoon. It’s busy and crowded. If you go to the beach, be aware there’s very little shade. North of there is Grand Mere State Park, which is better for hiking. In Berrien Springs, check out Zick’s specialty meats across the river from the camp.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shipshewana North Park Campground
    Jan. 14, 2025

    Shipshewana North Park Campground

    Nice campground in a convenient location

    We were passing through and decided to stop for frozen custard at the stand right next to the campground. The first review for this place did not seem very inviting but a more recent one was a little more positive. After checking it out, I thought it could use a little reinforcement of the positives! I’m not sure if there have been new owners since the first review but I received a very friendly greeting, and the office is open from 9 am– 8 pm and clearly marked as the place to check-in. 

    There are many options here: back-in or pull-thru tent sites, w/e sites, full hook-up sites, camper cabins, and fully equipped cabins. The campsites range from $32-$46 per night and the cabins range from $69-$144 per night. Sites 47-52 are close to the road so you will hear road noise, but Sites 11-35 are farther from the road and are more shaded. The layout is RV park style but there is reasonable separation between the sites. 

    The restrooms have a code for entry, and I did not see the inside of these.

    Amenities include:

    - a community fire pit

    -  game room with television

    - guest laundry 

    - dump station

    - gift shop

    - pet friendly options

     -WiFi

    - There is, of course, an ice cream/frozen custard stand that I dare you to resist. 

    While we would not consider it a destination, we would definitely consider camping here en route – the price is reasonable, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
    Aug. 21, 2019

    Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

    Clean and quiet

    Although we would normally wait until the last minute to book a site, we booked early this time, and were glad that we did. All tent sites were reserved a week before our trip, so best to plan ahead. We chose sites 4, 5, and 6 to accommodate our group of 7. Each site had morning shade only, and the shade from the forest to the east of the sites closed in around 5 p.m. This campsite allows up to 2 tents per site, but it was nice to spread out a bit. We chose the sites that we did expecting to have a view of the river, but the maps are misleading– there is no river view, although it’s only a few feet to the river. It’s probably for the best though, since there is a boat ramp that runs through the campground that gets plenty of use. Despite the fact that we had a fair amount of rain during our trip, our sites never got muddy, because the soil is very sandy. An annoyance when your feet are constantly dirty, but great when it’s a stormy weekend. The sites were a good size, complete with fire pit, grill grate, and picnic table, and the entire campground was well maintained. The pit toilets were cleaned daily and were always well stocked. The showers were also clean, HOWEVER, as a tent camper, you’re not allowed to use the showers.(?!!) I mean, really, what are we? Heathens? We were chased away until we removed the blue placard given at check-in. The Park has a lot of hiking trails, and other activities. The town of Winamac was pretty small, but there are canoe, kayak, and pontoon rentals nearby. We also saw a paintball court close by. Firewood($6/bundle) and ice($2/bag) are available at the park gate. There is a private, certified, gentleman selling dry, well-seasoned firewood about a mile or two north of the park on US 35, east side of the road. He charges$20 for more than 10 times the amount of wood provided by the park.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
    May. 25, 2022

    Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

    Average state park

     This is a North Central State Park in Indiana. Not one of the better units, but it has some charms. The mosquitos get bad in the summer, so come prepared. We camped the end of May& they were just getting going. Spring& late fall would be a good time to visit.

     None of the campsites have a view of the river. Only 112 campsites in the electric side. There's a primitive tent campground by the river, with a few sites. There's also a horsemans campground, which we didn't look at. This is a well established campground& has nice shade trees in all the sites. 

    Get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse. There's 2 sides at the dump station. In the campground there's 2 comfort stations. Station A looked like it had been totally rehabbed in the last 5 years. Everything looked nice& the showers could be turned to your preferred temperature. Cleaner than the last state park we were at for sure!

     Handicap accessible sites are 109/110/111/112. There are 2 pit toilets in the campground, though I don't know why. The modern bathrooms are right across the road. Stay away from sites 73/75& 105/106. Right by the pits, with a sidewalk between them. The sites are typical state park. No privacy for most. There's gravel for your camper pad. Not dirt.

     The best sites are site 1- right on the main drag, but the most private site in the place. If you enjoy watching the rigs come in& leave, this is your site! Vegetation separates you from site 2. Site 58 is the only pull through in the campground. Site 63 is also a pretty good site. All sites are not too far from the bathrooms. 

    For the playground, sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground& you can watch your children from your site. All the interior sites by comfort station B have direct access to the playground from your site & you can watch your children from your site. Avoid if you dislike the sound of children playing. 

    We stayed in site 102, which is right across from bathroom A. All the outer sites are pretty good. Our site ponded water after a rain, but soaked in fast. 

    There's some trails that can be accessed from the campground- Trails 1,3,4&5.

     All in all an average park. Nothing really special except for the river. Fishing was poor according to my husband.

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhart County Fairgrounds
    Sep. 23, 2017

    Elkhart County Fairgrounds

    Typical Fairgrounds Camping Experience

    I have camped here a couple of times while visiting northern Indiana to have repairs done on my RV. Overall, I like this campground where for $30/night you can get a 50 amp full hook-up site or $23/night a 30 amp and water site. If you plan on staying longer weekly and monthly rates are really good. The campground sits in the middle of the county fairgrounds so there is usually something going on – either a fair, concert, horse event, or an RV rally. Depending on what time of year you are here and part of the week, the campground could be very crowded or very empty. The nice thing is the people in the office let you pick whatever site you want and don’t assign one to you. There are 275 full hook-up sites with 50 amp full hook-up and 30 amp water & electric only. There are no fires allowed and some sites don’t have picnic tables but you can request one and they will bring it to your site.

    There is very little shade and during my last visit the late September fall temperatures climbed to nearly 90 degrees and was brutal. This campground is better suited for RVs than tents but you are permitted to tent camp. Bathrooms and showers are scattered about and I was amazed at always how clean they (and the grounds as a whole) are. They do offer WiFi which worked pretty well in non-peak hours like early morning but was not reliable and sometimes frustrating. Since many sites have a clear view of the sky, you most likely will get satellite television reception and a dozen or so antenna channels.

    One of the things I like about this park is the vast expanse of grounds to wander about walking my dog. There is a trail system just outside of the park that allows you miles and miles of walking and biking trails. Downtown Goshen is less than two miles away and has some great restaurants (including Venturi Pizza, Maple Indian Cuisine – which has an awesome buffet, and Goshen Brewing Company). The Saturday farmers market is great with lots of produce, breads, meats, cheeses, and crafts.

    The last time I visited coincided with the Mennonite Relief Fund which was a big fund raiser for their charity that packed the grounds with stuff for sale, food, and activities. It was fun to be there during the event but it meant the campground and grounds were packed.

    Now for the bad about this campground. It is located right next to very busy train tracks that operate 24/7 and blow their horns quite often. They were really annoying in the middle of the night. Sites are close together so if it is crowded and you have a neighbor, you will be right on top of them. There is no shade which can be very miserable.

    Pros:

    · Price - $30/night for a 50 amp full hook-up site

    · Nearby downtown stores and restaurants

    · Sites are not assigned so you can pick where you want to camp

    · Grassy patios

    · Large grounds to meander around

    · Nearby biking/walking trail

    Cons:

    · Very noisy from nearby trains operated at all hours

    · Few trees for shade or privacy

    · Some sites are very tight and close to your neighbor

    · Can be very crowded

    · WiFi provided but not reliable

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Potato Creek State Park Campground
    Sep. 8, 2019

    Potato Creek State Park Campground

    Campground=4 stars; check-in=2 stars

    Campground= 4 stars; check-in= 2 stars. Very large campground with close to 300 sites plus a horse camp and about 20 cabins. We picked this park solely because it was convenient to our next destination, so we were not concerned with amenities. We did not make a reservation because I really do not want to pay the extra fee if it is not necessary. Upon arrival, we paid the $9 entrance fee ($7 for Indiana residents) and drove the 3 miles to the campground office. Somewhat surprised to find both staffed at 6 pm on a Thursday after Labor Day. We were told to drive around and pick several desired sites as they could not tell us which ones still had people due to arrive that night who had reserved. Huh?? So, we drove around two of the five loops and picked half a dozen sites that would be suitable. But that’s where the fun began- not! There seemed to be some computer glitch in that every site we asked about showed as not available, even though more than half the sites were empty. Eventually, we were told to just go to one of the sites we picked and set up and that a security guard would come and collect our money. Eventually, at just before 9 pm, the security guard did come and told us the glitch had been fixed and asked that we come to the office and register. The glitch was not fixed! But we paid our fee and were able to stay the night and the staff was very apologetic. 

    There is no differentiation between RV and tent sites (the only one that is separate is the horse camp). The E Loop seemed to be the most crowded, mostly with RVs. The sites in the D Loop were spaced a decent amount of distance apart but other than that, there was no real privacy between them. This was not a problem because the loop had many empty sites and we were able to easily find one that had an empty one on either side of us. There are paths to the beach accessible from the D and E loops but note the beach is only open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There is no longer a dog beach at Potato Creek. There is a general store(open until 8 pm) and bike rentals which, if we were going to stay longer, we might have taken advantage of. There are boat rentals in season. Several trails and playgrounds so I imagine that in the summer, this is a nice family campground (even the name is Family campground). 

    The mosquitos were vicious, likely worse due to the amount of rain the area has had this year. Bathrooms were very clean and there was hot water, a nice luxury but you have to be careful not to bump your head on the shelf over the sink when washing your face. Didn’t use them but there were also showers. 

    The check-in process notwithstanding, our stay was fine for the night.

  • Daniel  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Eden Springs Park Campground
    Jul. 22, 2018

    Eden Springs Park Campground

    Ranger Review: ICEMULE Pro XL Backpack Cooler at Eden Springs Park Camp

    Campground Review

    This campground is very unique. Whether it is the late 1800s, early 1900s buildings on site, or the rumor that this place is haunted, you’re going to have some kind of fun. You can walk around the campground and check out the restoration on these early buildings (and a flower bed shaped like a battle ship), take a train ride with the kids around part of the grounds, and hang out in a large beer garden area and get mesmerized by a fountain.

    This place can accommodate a lot of people and a lot of different options. The RV sites are furthest from the amenities, but also the most shaded. There are smaller “amish cabins” for rent that have A/C, tent sites with electrical hook ups, and larger full-scale cabins that look to sleep 6+ comfortably. It’s a place close to the I-94 interstate, so it’s also convenient for road trippers. It was hard, but I could faintly hear the highway. Or maybe that was the ghosts!

    There is play equipment and toys for kids, and this place is very well maintained. The landscapers and restoration artists are doing good work. The bathrooms were clean, and showers were hot. I liked that there was a separate area for dish washing – and that it was even provided!

    They also have WiFi, but I wasn’t surprised it was pretty spotty. I had better cell coverage in my tent spot. I imagine by the office (or wherever the router is, maybe closer to the full timers in their RVs?) it is better. While I loved how the campground had a lot of dog baggie stations to help keep the place poop-free, I was really bummed to learn there was a $5 pet fee with this reservation. The $25 for the tent site seemed pricey enough, and it’s the first time I’ve encountered this fee while camping.

    There’s a lot of interesting history here. It was a cult at one time, there used to be a vegan restaurant and an ice cream parlor, and there was a hotel here at one point as well. What I liked about it was you could walk around the campgrounds and learn about it from the signage. 

    Product Review

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time – and today I am testing the ICEMULE Pro XL Backpack Cooler

    • You can check out a video review below.

    This is one amazing cooler for all the right reasons. First, and most importantly, it keeps things cold. I had this thing filled with 30 pounds of beer and ice and left it in out on a dock by the water, in the sun, for a day. I put it next to another transport-friendly cooler. There was still so much ice left over in the ICEMULE and the other cooler I used was only water. 36 hours later, there was still ice.

    Secondly, it’s a backpack, and it is great at that too. The backpack straps are cushioned and come with a sternum strap for load dispersion – two things that were greatly appreciated when this thing had 30 pounds of beer + ice in it. There is also some padding for against your back that is a breathable mesh, to keep you cooler for longer while you’re lugging (mule-ing?) this thing around.

    It has a roll down seal, very much the same as waterproof sacks, and this is very much waterproof. It floats in water, so I had no concerns when I went kayaking with this. I strapped it into the boat, paddled to an island, hiked to a spot with a view, and cracked a few brews, had a sandwich, and watched the day pass by.

    I do like that there is some flexible bungee webbing on the outside front so I can stash something like a jacket or a pair of shoes or something. I can lash things to the top where it clips and seals, but I would have appreciated some more pockets. Thing is, this cooler packs away very small for it’s 33L size, and a pocket would – I guess – prevent it from being so travel-friendly. My solution was to pack a smaller waterproof bag inside it and that way I could still transport all my things in one bag. This proved useful when I wanted to keep the sandwiches from getting wet from the ice in the cooler.

    It also has an integrated valve that lets air in and out in this layer of the bag nestled between its durable outside protective layer and its inner cooler material. Yes, this definitely helps with the packability I was just mentioning, as you can let a lot of air out to compress it, but it also aids in the cooling effect of your stuff. When you load this up with ice and your whatevers, if you let air in, then seal it, it will keep the air in the bag and that air will help keep the cooler colder for longer while the ice melts off. Not a lot of backpack coolers have a valve system.

    This bag is the Pro XL size. 33L is a big bag. They make some other sizes, and other models that come with less or more features (like outside pockets) so as a brand, ICEMULE has you covered. There are a few companies out there doing backpack coolers now, but I haven’t seen a better value out there. These are a great price considering their performance. I love how cold things were staying and how tough the bag held up through the woods. I am definitely bringing ice cream with me the next time I go hiking.

    Pros

    • It floats in water
    • Contents stay cold 24-36 hours later
    • Adjustable shoulder and sternum straps help handle heavy loads
    • Built-in side valve for better packing and cooling.

    Cons

    • Not much external storage/pocket options, but they have other models online with that feature.
  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
    Aug. 10, 2018

    Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

    { (The old) Canoe Camp👍} { (now) River Tent Area👎 }

    This small 10 campsite area of The Tippecanoe River State Park only has 1 water spigot & 4 vault toilets (2 men's & 2 women's) for the more adventurous campers. The main reason I like it there is that you're camping directly on the river. On one of the sites you can actually get out of your tent & throw a rock into the river.

    Prior to this year (2018) this non-electric smaller area of the park WAS known as "The Canoe Camp", stipulating you must have a canoe or some kind of boat to camp here.

    Now, this area is "The River Tent Area". Anyone with a tent can camp here now. I have camped there 3 times this year & had a few things happen. (All in one trip)

    In the camping brochure it plainly states "No swimming" in 2 separate paragraghs. I had picked THAT weekend because there was free fishing for Indiana residents & my friend wanted to take her 2 young boys fishing & camping. We caught nothing. Probably due to the people belly flopping in the river a mere 20 ft. away.

    Our day FAR from over. Some other campers that night decided to play flashlight games in ALL 10 campsites. It's not too easy getting 2 small boy's to bed while there are scary shadows being cast on all 4 sides of our tent.

    The park rangers DO come around & check on things 👍 but I was getting ice in the main campground after the fishing incident & my friend,who had never camped there before, didn't feel it was her place to say anything. The reservations were in my name. Plus we packed & left 1st thing in the morning after the flashlight ordeal. ((back to work) I did call the office & inform that evening at home.

    I'm worried that opening that area up to anybody with a tent wasn't a very good idea.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Tippecanoe River State Park Campground
    Dec. 18, 2017

    Tippecanoe River State Park Campground

    Best in Indiana, so far

    An autumn stay to Tippecanoe River State Park was about as good as it gets for us. Mature wooded campground. Plentiful level grassy tent spots to put up a tent. Clean facilities. Quiet park. Knowledgeable and friendly staff.

  • Annette B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Warren Dunes State Park Campground
    May. 30, 2018

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Rustic Campground was Noisy and the Campground was Unorganized

    My youngest son and I went camping here June 2017. When we arrived after 5pm a tent was set up on our reserved site. We went to the park staff office and explained the situation. They took my phone number and told us to go somewhere for an hour or so (?!?) while they tried to get a hold of the owners of the tent. We went for dinner. Around 7 pm we received a call saying that we could pitch our tent on the site. The rustic portion of the campground runs alongside a stretch of trees and on the other side of the trees is a highway. The traffic could be heard all evening from our site. We camped here just so we could go into Chicago to the museums, but this was very disappointing. We did have a fire and roasted marshmallows.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Michigan City Campground
    Jun. 8, 2021

    Michigan City Campground

    Decent Campground Close Enough to Many Activities

    Decent campground. Pool, laundry, nice playground, ponds and basketball hoop. Less than 15 min to Indiana Dunes National Park.


Guide to Wakarusa

Tent camping near Wakarusa, Indiana offers a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying essential amenities.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Local attractions to enhance your camping experience

Some prices for tent camping range from $30 to $50

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Wakarusa, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Wakarusa, IN is Shady Point Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Wakarusa, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.