Cabins near Kendallville, Indiana provide access to the numerous lakes and forested areas of northeastern Indiana's glacial landscape. The region features over 100 interconnected lakes within a 20-mile radius, with most cabin accommodations situated at elevations between 850-950 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall can see overnight temperatures drop into the 40s.
What to do
Kayaking through connected lakes: At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, visitors can explore nine connected lakes via kayak rentals. "Great place for family, lots of amenities. Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored," notes Amanda J.
Toboggan runs in winter: Pokagon State Park operates a refrigerated toboggan run from late November through February, reaching speeds up to 40 mph on the quarter-mile track. "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc.," mentions Amy K.
Nature center programs: Several parks offer structured nature activities for all ages. "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," shares Julie B. about Chain O' Lakes programs, which include bird identification walks and astronomy nights during summer months.
What campers like
Private lake access: Many visitors appreciate the direct water access from Twin Mills Camping Resort cabins. "There is a small beach and pool available with lots of places to walk, ride and explore. Shipshewana is a ten minute drive and has lots to offer including the huge flea market," according to Melissa V.
Historical attractions: Buck Lake Ranch offers unique historical elements alongside cabin accommodations. "Buck Lake Ranch is full of history dating back to 1947. Hank Williams, Buddy Holly, Loretta Lynn, Waylon, Willie, Alabama, Charlie Daniels to name a few," explains Ron W. The property maintains exhibits about its musical heritage.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a priority. "Nice quiet campground with lots of wildlife. Tent lots are flat and a good size. RR and showers nearby," reports Karson G. about Chain O' Lakes State Park facilities, which are maintained twice daily during peak season.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins book months in advance for summer weekends. "Although it states in the app free dispersed camping. Doesn't always mean just that. The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks," notes Clay T. about Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite.
Varying quality between campgrounds: Facilities differ significantly between private and public options. "This campground has around 500 sites and ONLY ONE BATH HOUSE! It is cramped and is full of long term campers," warns M.A. C. about Indian Springs Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most cabin rentals close during winter months, with limited options from November through March. "Huge campground, we stopped for one night a week prior to their closing for the season," shares Barbara P. about Twin Mills, which operates mid-April through early November.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation planning: Families should reserve water equipment in advance during peak times. "Very clean state park. Reasonable prices. Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," mentions Jeremy C. who visited Pokagon State Park Campground.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled family programming. "We've been to many KOA campgrounds over the years. Hogback Lake definitely ranks at the top of the list. They have a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake," notes Doug A.
Beach conditions: Lake beaches vary in maintenance and water clarity. "My family and I go to Chain O Lakes for short hikes, kayaking and camping. The beach is often overcrowded with local partiers, drinking and smoking, and leaving trash everywhere. After peak hours these people clear out," advises Whitley K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for cabins: RVers note the importance of reviewing site maps before booking. "Watch out for some of the patio sites, some have a fire pit that would sit directly under an awning. Our patio site though had the pit far out from site and we loved it, the grill even had propane in it to use!" suggests Ashley G. from Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday.
Weekend noise levels: Several cabin areas experience increased noise on weekends. "Very quiet and laid back," says Dustin H. about Crooked Creek Campground and Cabins, noting this as an exception to the typically busier weekend atmosphere at other locations.
Supply planning: Most cabin kitchens are minimally equipped. "We spent this past week at Hogback Lake KOA. It is late in the season so much of the park was closed for the season, but we had a great year round site. A little bit of road noise, but water, electric, sewer, cable TV all worked great," shares Kevin A.
