Kendallville, Indiana camping spots offer access to interconnected lakes and wooded areas within the region's gently rolling terrain. The area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 83°F and cold winters with January averages near 28°F. Most campgrounds near Kendallville maintain quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM, with seasonal operations typically running mid-April through mid-October.
What to do
Canoe the chain of lakes system: Chain O'Lakes State Park provides multiple waterways for paddling enthusiasts. A visitor noted, "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," demonstrating the variety of water-based activities available at Pokagon State Park Campground.
Use the lazy river at KOA: The Angola/Hogback Lake KOA features modern water recreation beyond traditional swimming. According to a recent visitor, "We explored down to the lake and spent the morning in the pool and lazy river. We could permanent this place." Another camper added, "They have a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake," showing the Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday offers multiple water activity options.
Join weekend events: Seasonal campgrounds organize activities throughout summer. One reviewer reported, "We visited on one of the Halloween weekends. Lots of things for the kids to do. Haunted hayride and haunted house." Gordons Campground schedules regular entertainment with another camper noting, "Lots of activities for the kids, krafts, hayrides, kids karaoke as well as adults."
What campers like
Clean facilities with modern amenities: The bathroom facilities at many parks receive positive reviews. A camper at Chain O'Lakes State Park Campground shared, "The the campground at self is very clean and easy to navigate." Another noted, "Nice quiet campground with lots of wildlife. Tent lots are flat and a good size. RR and showers nearby."
Family-oriented atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the family-friendly environment. One visitor stated, "This is a great place for the family," while another explained, "I have stayed at this state park many times since I was little. There is so much to do. Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored. The facility is clean and very safe."
Variety of camping options: The area provides diverse camping styles. One camper at Hidden Diamonds Park observed, "Such a gem! Tiny municipal campground, but part of a much larger recreation area. Everything seems new or at least well maintained." For those seeking primitive options, Chain O'Lakes State Park offers simpler settings with a camper clarifying, "The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks. (Tent sites)."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close during colder months. Gordons Campground operates from "April 15 - October 15" according to their listing information, while Bixler Lake Park & Campground runs from the "last weekend April to October 15."
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have issues with site sizing or placement. One visitor to Indian Springs Campground cautioned, "Manager was rude when i could not fit my car, tent (10x20), table and fire ring on out site." Another camper at the same facility mentioned, "Tiny spots. Not enough restrooms."
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. A review of Indian Springs Campground warned, "The highway noise was terrible. We had A/C on and sound machine and still had a rough time sleeping. Not a bad place for a stopover but too noisy for more than a few nights." Conversely, municipal campgrounds can provide quieter options, with a visitor to Bixler Lake Park & Campground commenting, "This is by far the place to just relax... campers here live by the lights out code."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational water features: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA, a visitor reported, "They have a waterslide, big store, hand scooped ice cream, clean bathrooms and boat rentals." Another camper shared, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids."
Nature programs: State parks provide educational opportunities. At Chain O'Lakes, a visitor mentioned, "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic," indicating organized nature activities for children.
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Trading Post Outfitters receives praise for being "Perfect weekend getaway with your family," while another camper at Gordons Campground noted, "They have a playground for kids, dodge ball! There is a game at all times. There are playgrounds for the little ones too."
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity: Most campgrounds offer various hookup options. A visitor to Atwood Lake Campground appreciated the "electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, thirty-amp hookups" available, making it suitable for various RV power needs.
Site access considerations: Larger RVs may face challenges at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Trading Post warned, "Stayed one night it's a beautiful campground just small. I came in with a 44ft toy hauler had issues getting in (rookie mistake). There was room if your careful but I misunderstood what the guy directing me said and ended up breaking a window."
Year-round RV options: Limited winter camping exists for RVers. A camper at Angola/Hogback Lake KOA shared, "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."
