Camping options near Winona Lake, Indiana offer varied terrain on relatively flat landscapes with elevations ranging from 750 to 850 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making April through October the primary camping season. Most campgrounds in the area are situated within 30-45 minutes driving distance of Winona Lake.
What to do
Visit Amish communities: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to Shipshewana and surrounding Amish areas. A visitor at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney noted it's "in the heart of Amish country. Near Elkhart and the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum. Great place to visit, really interesting. Also, near Shipshewana."
Explore bike trails: The Pumpkinvine Bike Trail offers paved paths through scenic countryside. One camper at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park shared they enjoyed "two days of riding on the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail, the Krider Nurseries World's Fair Garden, the RV museum in Elkhart and Mooey's ice cream near Middlebury."
Enjoy water activities: Several lakes provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. A reviewer at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground mentioned "between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored. The facility is clean and very safe."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Maple Ridge Campground, a camper reported "the shower and bathroom was the best I ever saw at a campground," while another mentioned the "newly remodeled bathhouse with laundry and also a heated pool."
Family activities: Weekend events keep children entertained at several parks. A visitor at Maple Ridge Campground appreciated that "multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears. Nice pool and playground."
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds often serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. At Hoffman Lake Campground INC., campers enjoy "an awesome view right on the lake" while being close to Warsaw amenities, and those staying at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park value its location as "very convenient to the town of Shipshewanna, Amish Country and the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV sites near Winona Lake, Indiana close during winter months. Twin Mills Camping Resort operates from April 15 to November 1, while Elkhart RV Resort runs from April through mid-November.
Site variations: Campground layouts differ significantly across the region. At Shipshewana RV Park, "it is a crushed limestone/asphalt drives with grass in between the sites. The trees are not mature, so no shade is really offered."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. A camper at South Bend Elkhart North KOA reported "there is an active railroad nearby this campground. 4 Trains woke us up during the night."
Early check-in fees: Some parks charge for arriving before official check-in times. A visitor at Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park noted "no complaints other than a $15 (plus tax) charge for 45 minutes early check-in. Given the park was 2/3 empty that seemed unnecessary."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature equipment for children. A reviewer at Twin Mills Camping Resort mentioned "the playgrounds seemed to be in good shape" and another noted it has "pool, miniature golf, volleyball, picnic tables, fire rings, trash, playground, lake access, beach area."
Consider campgrounds with organized activities: Some parks schedule regular entertainment for younger campers. At Maple Ridge Campground, a family shared, "great owners and they are constantly updating and remodeling everything there" with "activities every weekend for the kids."
Check pool availability: Swimming facilities are important for family trips during summer. A visitor at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney appreciated that "the pool is well kept" and another mentioned camping amenities include "pool, clubhouse, basketball, volleyball, picnic tables, fire rings."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Some sites require extended hoses to reach connections. Twin Mills Camping Resort offers a variety of full hookup options, though campers should note "most of the sites are full hook up, some have 30amp and some have 50amp."
Satellite and cellular coverage: Signal quality varies by carrier and location. A visitor observed at Twin Mills that "T-Mobile had good signal strength and bandwidth, AT&T was not as good but still doable."
Consider site layout: Some RV parks have unusual arrangement patterns. At Shipshewana RV Park, "the Park offers mainly alternating pull-through sites which means you will be facing your neighbor's door not their street side of the camper. This makes for great buddy sites."
Size restrictions: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs. While many campgrounds advertise as big-rig friendly, actual conditions may vary, and South Bend Elkhart North KOA notes that "the sites are tight, but it didn't feel cramped."
