Chain O' Lakes State Park sits at the heart of Indiana's lake country near Wolflake, featuring nine interconnected lakes surrounded by rolling terrain. The park's location in northeastern Indiana experiences warm summers with temperatures typically reaching the 80s and moderately cold winters. The region's abundant wetlands create ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly during spring and fall migration periods.
What to do
Kayaking the lake chain: Chain O'Lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite offers excellent access to the interconnected waterways. As one camper notes, "We come here for short hikes, kayaking and camping. We come here out of convenience, since we live twenty minutes away."
Hiking with varied terrain: Blue Lake Campground provides access to nearby nature trails. One visitor mentioned, "I particularly enjoyed the fishing opportunities and the peaceful nature trails nearby."
Fishing for multiple species: The Barbie Chain of Lakes accessible from Pic-A-Spot Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. A camper shared, "Bring your boat or watercraft! Plenty of lakefront camping spots on the barbie chain of lakes. Several (deep, clean) lakes hooked together by channels. Also hook into that big bass or musky!"
Urban adventures nearby: Johnny Appleseed Campground connects to city amenities. A visitor explained, "The park is connected to the river greenway which is a beautiful walk along the river!" Another camper added, "Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping."
What campers like
Tent site quality: At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, campers appreciate the well-maintained spaces. "Tent lots are flat and a good size. RR and showers nearby," one visitor observed.
Clean facilities: Bixler Lake Park & Campground earns high marks for maintenance. A long-term visitor shared, "This is by far the place to just relax. Been here nearly a month and definitely will be back."
Modern bathrooms: Johnny Appleseed Campground stands out for exceptionally clean facilities. One impressed camper remarked, "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky."
Off-season tranquility: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers a different experience in autumn. One visitor noted, "Nice quiet campground with lots of wildlife," while another mentioned, "The RV sites have better bathrooms I believe."
What you should know
Site selection matters: When camping in this area, choosing the right site can make a difference. At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, one camper advised, "We were in the tent portion and it was very loud, the pit toilets did not have doors, and there were some mosquitoes."
Weather considerations: Summer brings crowds to dog-friendly campgrounds near Wolflake. A visitor at Chain O' Lakes noted, "It was Memorial Day weekend which could explain the noise/busy-ness."
Facility closures: Some previously available options may no longer be operating. Regarding Hidden Diamonds Park, a recent visitor confirmed, "Great little campground but it is no longer open."
Site spacing varies: At Blue Lake Campground, expect moderate spacing between sites. A camper reported, "They are all gravel lots, but nice and level. Ok room between rigs."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple recreation options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Pierceton offers extensive activities. A visitor enthusiastically shared, "Awesome campground and amazing cabins!! You will not be bored! Plenty of things for the children and adults to do!"
Budget-friendly water activities: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground provides affordable water recreation. One parent mentioned, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids. Very clean state park. Reasonable prices."
Playground availability: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground features play areas for children. A satisfied parent shared, "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."
Safety considerations: Pet-friendly campsites are available throughout the area, but supervision is necessary. A camper at Chain O' Lakes observed, "The facility is clean and very safe."
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site layout: Blue Lake Campground offers well-designed RV sites. A camper reported, "We stayed in lot A-14. They are all gravel lots, but nice and level. The lake is clean and has a decent beach."
Hookup quality: RV campers appreciate the utility options at pet-friendly campgrounds near Wolflake. A Blue Lake visitor added, "Wifi is good at our lot. Kids had fun with basketball, dodgeball, fishing and kayaking."
Dump station access: Many campgrounds in the area provide sanitary dump stations. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, the reservation process is straightforward. A camper explained, "Very straightforward reservation and check in process. The grounds are nice with a lovely river right across the street."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April to October. Bixler Lake Park & Campground is open "from the last weekend of April to October 15," making it ideal for summer and early fall camping trips with dogs.
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