Glamping options close to Westville, Indiana provide access to Lake Michigan beaches and unique dune ecosystems within a 30-minute drive. The area sits at approximately 790 feet above sea level, with terrain ranging from wetlands to forested ridges. Summer temperatures can reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to do
Dune hiking trails: 3-mile hiking network at Dunewood Campground offers diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. "The campsite was large and beautiful. The restroom area was clean and had soap and dryers. Lots of nature, chill vibe. Great experience!" notes Veronica S. about Dunewood Campground.
Beach swimming: dedicated beach areas with lifeguards during specific hours at Indiana Dunes State Park. "The beach was well maintained, and had lifeguards during certain hours, which gave me a little bit of extra comfort in bringing my kids to the lake," reports Kaley A. about her experience at Indiana Dunes State Park.
Mountain biking: nearby trails accessible from several campgrounds. "We spent 2 nights here and went mountain biking at Imagination Glen Park in Portage just a few miles down the road which was awesome," shares Jeffrey S. about his stay near Warren Dunes State Park.
Star gazing events: scheduled astronomy programs available seasonally. "Did participate in a star gazing event being held that weekend and it is still something my husband and I talk about regularly," mentions Monica C. about her visit to Tippecanoe River State Park.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Secluded camping spots offer natural separation. "The sites are decently private with good tent pads. Shower house was clean with good hot water. A camper sink for dishwashing was a nice bonus," explains Katherine T. from Dunewood Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "It had one of the nicer programs that I have been to in the state. The park sites were nice, most of them had grass and trees, but a few of them like sites 98 through 102 did have sand on them, which is kind of cool. It was also the nicest showers that I've been to to date," shares Kaley A. about Indiana Dunes State Park.
Lake Michigan access: Swimming and beach activities within short driving distance. "Right near the beach, everything you need is close, staff is nice, and it's affordable," reports Rachael M. about camping near Lake Michigan.
Spacious RV sites: Premium pull-through spots with full hookups. "There is swimming pool and a game room, and a small store with the essentials, and propane. You are close to Indiana Dunes and the downtown area of Michigan city. Good food, shops are close by," notes Craig C. about Michigan City Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Railway proximity affects some campgrounds. "Definitely heard railroad and road noise but that's the trade off for being close to town with good cell service," observes Katherine T. about Dunewood Campground.
Site selection importance: Considerable variation in site quality and privacy. "The best sites are the ones on the outside from the beach trail to the nature center. These are up against the dunes and have some shade. The middle sites are more exposed and much less private," advises Greg S. about Warren Dunes State Park Campground.
Beach conditions: Lake water quality varies by season and location. "The beach and dunes are the star of this show, but the campground is a good supporting actor," explains Greg S. from Warren Dunes State Park.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in summer months. "The mosquitoes were horrible. It was almost impossible to sit outside in the evening," warns Katrin M. about her stay at Dunewood Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites with direct visibility to play areas. "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," recommends Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe River State Park Campground.
Beach gear preparation: Pack water shoes and sun protection for dune areas. "The cool soft sand feels fantastic, definitely best hiked barefoot," suggests Greg S. about the dunes at Warren Dunes State Park.
Security features: Gated entry provides added safety at select locations. "Love the secure entrance and key card access. Pool and bathrooms were clean, although the bathroom could use a slight update," shares Beth B. about Michigan City Campground.
Activity planning: Schedule around peak times to avoid crowds. "The campground was full, but not overcrowded. Very friendly neighbors and camp staff. There is a nice nature trail to the beach," notes Jackie H. about enjoying Warren Dunes without feeling crowded.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Bring extended power cords for certain sites. "Be ready with back up cords, some sites require 75 ft to hook up," advises Frank M. about Potato Creek State Park Campground.
Premium RV sites: Opt for dedicated pull-through spots when available. "We stayed in a 90 ft premium pull through spot. Nice campground that is maintained. There is a pool, fishing pond, and playground for kids," shares Erin B. about Michigan City Campground.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times during peak checkout. "Two dump stations made wait minimal," notes Jeffrey S. about facilities at Warren Dunes State Park.
Water availability: Fill tanks before setup at specific locations. "Get water before setting up at the water station after the small gatehouse. There's 2 sides at the dump station," suggests Cynthia K. about Tippecanoe River State Park.
