Cabin accommodations near West Lafayette include log cabins, camping cabins, and deluxe cabins with varying amenities. Most cabin rental options are located within a 30-45 minute drive of West Lafayette, primarily in established campgrounds along Sugar Creek and near Turkey Run State Park. Winter cabin availability is limited as many campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October. During peak summer months, cabin reservations typically require booking 2-3 months in advance.
What to do
Disc golf at Bachelor Runn: Bachelor Runn Campground offers disc golf as part of their multi-activity site built on a former golf course. "This campground is amazing and relatively unknown. Opened in May 2022, built on an old golf course, it's a must camp spot for avid campers," notes one visitor who found the recreational options abundant.
Scuba diving at France Park: The quarry at France Park provides crystal-clear waters for certified divers. "The quarry, wow! It was beyond stunning and never what I expected to see in an Indiana park," writes one camper. Diving is permitted only when the dive store is open, so check operating hours before planning your trip.
Creek exploration for children: Sugar Creek offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. "We saw all kinds of birds, turtles, frogs and even a couple snakes. We fished in the ponds and my husband caught a bass, and I caught a catfish," reports a family who stayed at a creekside site. Children particularly enjoy catching tadpoles and minnows in the shallow areas.
What campers like
Historical attractions: The Wabash & Erie Canal Park features 1800s-style buildings that campers can explore. "We stopped here for a night and you should really spend a few days if you have the time. There is plenty to see and do. With miles of bike trails it is easy to see everything without having to drive," says one visitor who appreciated the historical elements.
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds rent water equipment for Sugar Creek outings. "We loved camping here! The staff was beyond pleasant and helpful. The creek was high for canoeing and tubing the first 2 days but half the family was able to go the third day," reports a camper who stayed at Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental. Water levels vary seasonally, affecting navigation.
Privacy options: Many campgrounds offer both open and wooded sites. "We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167," noted a visitor at Turkey Run State Park. Wooded sites typically provide more seclusion but may have uneven terrain.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are located near major roads. At Caboose Lake Campground, a camper notes, "Highway is louder than you'd think. No good night rest had." Consider requesting sites farther from highways if noise sensitivity is a concern.
Seasonal facilities: Many water amenities operate only during warm months. One camper at Indiana Beach Campground reported, "The IB side has a very large splash pad, but was never open or when we went over there." Call ahead to confirm which amenities are operational during your planned visit.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are commonly mentioned in reviews. "Raccoons will show up at night so pack up your snacks," warns one camper. Keep food secured in containers or vehicles, particularly at creek-side and wooded sites where wildlife activity is higher.
Tips for camping with families
Water play alternatives: When Sugar Creek levels are too high for safe tubing, consider quarry swimming. At France Park, "We had a decently large site for our 23' camper. Lots for the kids to do- park, beach, fishing, pretty trails, waterfall, little camp store etc." The beach area at the quarry provides a safer alternative for younger children.
Activity wristbands: Some campgrounds offer daily activity passes. "They do require wristbands which cost $10 a day but that includes bumper boats and unlimited paddle boat rentals, for us it's perfect!" explains a camper at Caboose Lake. These passes can provide good value for families planning full days of recreation.
Cabin proximity considerations: When booking cabin accommodations with children, consider bathroom access. One camper noted at Sugar Creek Campground, "All in all we have very few complaints, this includes bathrooms would be nice closer to off creek. And slightly larger shower room for moms with kids along with a couple more hooks to hang stuff."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Crawfordsville KOA: RV sites are primarily gravel-based. "This campground is gorgeous. The sites are gravel and grassy. Great shade all over and landscaping is beautiful. Full access and hook ups makes it so easy," notes one RVer. Sites near the playground may be noisier but more convenient for families.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the area have uneven terrain. "The site was very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end," reports a camper at Turkey Run State Park. Bring additional leveling blocks, particularly for larger RVs.
Hook-up locations: Sewer connections may be positioned inconveniently at some campgrounds. "Sewer hookup was all the way at the end of the site, needed extra extension to hook up sewer," reports one RVer. Bring longer hoses and cords to ensure successful connections regardless of site configuration.
