Tippecanoe River State Park offers year-round camping opportunities with 112 electric sites set among mature trees within 30 miles of Winamac, Indiana. The park sits along the Tippecanoe River at approximately 700 feet elevation, making it accessible in all seasons. During summer months, mosquitoes can be problematic, with late spring and fall providing more comfortable camping conditions.
What to do
Climb the fire tower: At Tippecanoe River State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy a short hike to the observation tower. "The fire tower climb was beautiful. A nice little place to relax," notes Nicole B., highlighting one of the park's distinctive features that appeals to families.
Fishing opportunities: While fishing reports vary, several water bodies exist near rv sites around Winamac, Indiana. As Cynthia K. reports about Tippecanoe, "Fishing was poor according to my husband," suggesting anglers might want to explore multiple locations or adjust expectations seasonally.
Swimming at lake beaches: Oak Lake RV Resort in Fair Oaks features a pond with swimming and an obstacle course. "Pond swimming and obstacle course, movies on our inflatable screen, golf cart glow parades, s'mores, homemade campfire pizzas and endless family memories. The kids are still raving about it!" writes Nadiehsda B.
Attend scheduled activities: Weekend programming at Maple Ridge Campground includes organized events for children. "Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears. Nice pool and playground," shares Tony G., highlighting the family-oriented atmosphere.
What campers like
Quiet, natural settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at campgrounds near Winamac. "This is the place to go for a quiet simple camping trip. There is no pool or camp store and cell service is limited so it is a great place to get away from it all," explains Dawn K. about Tippecanoe River State Park.
Community atmosphere: Tall Sycamore Campground in Logansport fosters connections between campers. Jennifer H. notes, "It's a true community where everyone helps one another and the carry in dinners are fun and delicious!" emphasizing the social aspects available at certain campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on visitor priorities. "The shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," states a reviewer about Maple Ridge Campground, while Tucker A. comments about Tippecanoe River State Park: "Well maintained and beautiful state park. Sites were perfect."
Secure camping environments: Several rv parks near Winamac offer security features. Ken P. mentions that Oak Lake RV Resort is "Gated for security and plenty of shade. Great family setting and staff," providing peace of mind for campers concerned about safety.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Oak Lake RV Resort operates "Apr 15 to Oct 15," while Maple Ridge Campground runs from "Apr 15 - Oct 15," requiring advance planning for off-season camping needs.
Varied bathroom facilities: Comfort stations differ between campgrounds. At Tippecanoe River State Park, Cynthia K. notes: "Station A looked like it had been totally rehabbed in the last 5 years. Everything looked nice and the showers could be turned to your preferred temperature."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by carrier. "I have AT&T service and could not use my phone at all, my husband has Verizon and had no problems with cell service," reports Monica C. about her experience at Tippecanoe River State Park.
Check-in procedures: Some rv sites near Winamac have unique registration processes. At Wabash City RV Park, Don H. explains: "You MUST check in at the Water Treatment Plant by 4PM. You do not need to have picked a site, yet. Complete the typical paperwork and you'll be given keys to unlock the electrical box and a key to turn on the water."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas visible from campsites. At Tippecanoe River State Park, "sites 2,3,4,6,&7 have direct access to a playground and you can watch your children from your site," according to Cynthia K.
Consider evening activities: Family-oriented programs enhance the camping experience. At Oak Lake RV Resort, Sadie H. recalls: "Pulled in as the sun was coming down after a looong day of driving. Our site was right next to the playground and my kids had a blast swinging, climbing, and jumping while we set up camp."
Evaluate campground trail systems: Trail quality and markings vary between parks. Kaley A. mentions about Tippecanoe River State Park: "The hikes are okay. They aren't really anything special and aren't really well marked either. There is a firetower, which is fun for the kids and the hike to get there is short."
Check campground policies: Not all campgrounds welcome tents or pop-ups. Susan C. noted about Oak Lake Family Campgrounds: "This campground was bought out by Zeeman and just announced that tents and pop up campers are NOT allowed. This is ridiculous seeing how I have camped here 35+ years."
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Adapters may be necessary at some campgrounds. Don H. warns about Wabash City RV Park: "Our electrical pedestal had no 30amp receptacle. If you have a 30amp plug, bring a 50amp adapter. There are two 20amp outlets available."
Extension cord requirements: Site layout affects utility connections. At Wabash City RV Park, "The pedestals are between sites, which aren't really close. You will need a long (30-40'?) extension cord suited to your amperage to reach the pedestal," according to Don H.
Site selection for big rigs: Larger RVs have specific needs. At Love's RV Stop-Demotte, Steven C. notes: "Great stop for the night, It's new, gated and has basic amenities like a General store, Dog park and basketball court and tennis ball court for some activities if you have kids. Plenty of space and Convenient."
Site spacing considerations: Look for comfortable distance between neighbors. At Oak Lake RV Resort, Preston H. comments: "Staff was extremely helpful as this was our first trip with the new camper. Was very quiet. Clean shower and bathroom."