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Best Campgrounds near New Buffalo, MI

628 Reviews

Campgrounds near New Buffalo, Michigan cluster along the Lake Michigan shoreline, providing access to sandy beaches and dune landscapes. Warren Dunes State Park Campground in nearby Sawyer offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts, while Weko Beach Campground in Bridgman provides a mix of tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. The region includes several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, many featuring electrical hookups, shower facilities, and picnic areas. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin options for those seeking more sheltered accommodations.

Reservations are strongly recommended at most campgrounds in the area, particularly during summer months when Lake Michigan beaches draw significant crowds. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Warren Dunes State Park open year-round while others like Weko Beach Campground operate from May through mid-October. Winter camping options are limited but available at select locations. The proximity to Lake Michigan influences local weather patterns, with lake effect conditions possible throughout the year. Campers should prepare for potentially cold water temperatures even during summer months. A visitor commented, "Prepare for cold water! Lake Michigan is usually pretty cold until later in the summer."

Lake Michigan access represents the primary draw for most campers in the New Buffalo area. Several visitors mentioned the sunset views over the lake as a highlight of their camping experience. Campgrounds within walking distance to beaches tend to receive higher ratings, with many campers willing to overlook other limitations for shoreline proximity. "Lake Michigan is right there! We walked down to sunset and it was a 5 min walk max. I'll stay at any campground to have Lake Michigan in walking distance," noted one reviewer. Beyond beach access, the area offers opportunities for hiking dune trails, visiting nearby wineries and breweries, and exploring small lakeside towns. Campgrounds vary in privacy levels, with some offering more secluded, wooded sites while others feature more open layouts with limited separation between camping areas.

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Best Camping Sites Near New Buffalo, Michigan (73)

    1. Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park

    126 Reviews
    Beverly Shores, IN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 395-1882

    $25 / night

    "From Indiana Dunes State Park all the way up the coast to New Buffalo, the area is dotted with great little restaurants, wineries, and breweries. Tourist-y without being tacky."

    "You walk down steps or a ramp to your area, tent pad with a picnic table and firepit. So beautiful when the sun comes up. Showers and toilets regularly cleaned and modern."

    2. Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 426-4013

    "Happened upon this Gem when driving the coast of Lake Michigan.  Watched the solar eclipse from the beach.   The DBR had a viewing area setup for adults and kids.  "

    "I’m 36 now, so it’s safe to say that I pretty much know the park like the back of my hand, and it truly has become a home away from home. Actually I prefer being there over my main home."

    3. Indiana Dunes State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-1952

    $23 / night

    "This campground was very nice and clean and for a packed park was very quiet and we did not feel too close to the sites next to us. "

    "Our site was close to the trails leading to the dunes. Loved watching the waves on Lake Michigan and climbing the sand dunes."

    4. Michigan City Campground

    22 Reviews
    Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 872-7600

    "This is a beautifully kept campground just outside Michigan City, IN. It is gated so will need to call in once you arrive to enter."

    "It was a short drive to Lake Michigan."

    5. Weko Beach Campground

    20 Reviews
    Bridgman, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 465-3406

    $50 - $30 / night

    "Great camp ground just a stones throw away from Lake Michigan. Sites are on the smaller side but we’re tent campers so it worked for us! Nice bathroom facilities."

    "Really nice campground with a few cabins on Lake Michigan. Campsites are about 1/2 mile walk or less to the beach. Nice facilities, and overall kept up very well."

    6. Potato Creek State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    North Liberty, IN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 656-8186

    $20 - $90 / night

    "There is a nice prairie area to walk around in, and an easy to ride pave bike trail. We watched the osprey nest one year for several hours."

    "Great walking trails, great for families with youngsters. Park activities and lots of trail walking. 25 mins away from South Bend/Mishawaka and 40 mins away from Elkhart and there RV Hall of Fame."

    7. Sand Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Chesterton, IN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (219) 926-7482

    $30 - $90 / night

    "However 15 min drive there are multiple beaches you can go to on Lake Michigan. We went to the dune’s national park and it was awesome for swimming all day and playing in the sand for the kids."

    "We were disappointed the state park was full but found this campground close by. The tent sites were very private as we were the only ones there for the night. Plenty of space tucked among the trees."

    8. Thousand Trails Bear Cave

    16 Reviews
    Buchanan, MI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "But even without the cave there was still a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall. Close to nearby Lake Michigan and beaches."

    "Joseph River in southwest Michigan. There is also a waterfall right next to the cave. There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used. The sites are a bit on the smaller side."

    9. Fuller's Resort and Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buchanan, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (269) 695-3785

    "The acres has lots of sites tucked away in the woods and many out in the open sun too! Rental trailers and cabins right on the lake too. Great ice cream too. We will be back!"

    "There are showers, laundry, and better restroom facilities as short walk away. Mask wearing was very hit or miss.  Maybe 75% of out interactions with staff they wore a mask. "

    10. Mini Mountain Campground

    7 Reviews
    New Carlisle, IN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (574) 654-3307

    "There are ample hiking trails and activities for all ages. The swimming pool is awesome and a great plus when camping with kids. The woods are very thick and filled with amazing trees."

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Recent Camping Photos near New Buffalo, MI

205 Photos of 73 New Buffalo Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near New Buffalo, MI

628 Reviews of 73 New Buffalo Campgrounds

  • Jessica D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Covert Park Beach & Campground

    Small, lakeside, chill

    This was our first time staying at Covert Park Beach + Campground. We stayed in site 52 with our 21 ft travel trailer. The site is a good size. Tree placement made it a little tricky to back into, but nothing crazy. We stayed Sunday to Saturday, so we got to see it at its bustling weekend peak and the quiet, cozy weekday vibe. Family friendly, dog friendly and kid friendly. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach, but there's a beach a few minutes down the road (Hagar Beach) where you can bring leashed dogs. Sunset views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clean and showers nice and hot. The two guys who were running the check-in and campground operations were super cool- they were the perfect mix of attentive and laid back. No sewer on campsites but there's a dump station when you enter/exit. Ice and firewood are abundantly available and can be delivered to your site. We loved our stay here. Tree cover is generous, and it really preserves the camping feel. Weekend crowd was fun, friendly and lots of locals. Would definitely stay again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Camp Shabbona Woods

    Not the best but acceptable

    Stayed the weekend. Definitely felt the urban community close by with ambulances and firetrucks noises in the background. They close the gates after 10pm was weird but overall ok. No electric or water hook ups can’t keep your vehicle close to your campsite. The good the bathroom are in good shape and the staff was friendly.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Michigan City Campground

    66$ for a good overnight!

    Staying here started off as a last minute thing as we’re driving through and made no arrangements for overnight lodging. With our rooftop tent, staying here was no problem! There was water hookups and electricity if desired, although we didn’t use them.

    The shower/Bathroom situation is actually fairly nice for a campground! The water pressure was great, and the hot water was amazing.

    I do recommend this place, however, few things to know: the campground space is tight. You will be pretty close to people around you, many with kids. It seems kind of like a family retreat type of location and honestly? It’s a whole vibe and if that’s for you, then this place is too!

    #GoAnyway

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Cedar Lake Ministries RV Park

    Quiet, well kept spot

    We stayed on site 27, sites are full hookup up, there's a nice bathhouse which has a key pad handle which made me feel safe while showering. Theres a playground as well. You have access to the perks of the conference grounds I clouding access to a small private beach on the lake, canoes and kayaks, life jackets, and a rec room when open. Close to a grocery store and not far from US 41.

  • G
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Weko Beach Campground

    Wonderful site, easy beach access

    Campground was clean, with trails leading directly to Weko beach with gorgeous walking paths. Highly recommend, definitely a hidden gem.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Warren Dunes State Park Campground

    Clean and quiet

    The grounds were well kept and clean. Even though it was pretty booked when we were there it didn’t feel crowded. Overall pleasant experience.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Thousand Trails Bear Cave

    Cute, quiet campground

    We love this quaint little campground. Great clubhouse with library, air hockey, beautiful views, but most of the coin operated games were out of order. The cave was closed with no plan to reopen in 2025. But even without the cave there was still a playground, pool and little walking trail near the waterfall. Close to nearby Lake Michigan and beaches. Great for a few nights and the weather was perfect!

  • Noel L.
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Lakeside Campground

    Awesome campground

    Awesome campground. Campground is all seasonal campers now. Owners were super nice and found room for us for one night layover.

  • Lisa F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2025

    EZ Kamp

    Amazed and grateful!… Quaint, eclectic, Americana setting.

    I came to Austin for a conference. I camped out of my car and the location I planned to camp at turned out not to be safe. I got on the DYRT app and reached out to several campgrounds who all told me that they were full. Then I found EZ CAMP! I checked availability and it looks like there was opening so I drove to the campground and was absolutely amazed at how clean, well designed, coated with natural beauty and pretty artifacts spread throughout the campground. The owner is super professional and kind and available as are the residents. They provide hot showers, and outdoor kitchen, they even have a sauna! For me, the best part was that they had donkeys and goats on the property and they even hold a potluck once a month. We’re nearly 100 people come because it’s so great. After one night, I was hooked. Whenever I’m in this area, I will be coming back to.EZ CAMP because in addition to everything else, it is extremely affordable! I would encourage you to check it out if this description is of interest to you.

Guide to New Buffalo

Camping near New Buffalo, Michigan, offers a great mix of nature, fun activities, and family-friendly spots. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Indiana Dunes State Park Campground. "We enjoyed riding ebikes on the trails," said one camper, highlighting the park's scenic routes.
  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Warren Dunes State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!"
  • Fishing and Kayaking: At Potato Creek State Park Campground, you can fish or rent kayaks. One camper shared, "Fishing, kayaking on the lake," made for a relaxing experience.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Michigan City Campground. One review noted, "Very well kept, safe supervision, quiet clean facilities."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpfulness of the staff at Camp Bullfrog Lake. A camper remarked, "The site overall is amazing. Just wouldn't ever camp here again due to the high price and the bathrooms being terrible."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Tippecanoe River State Park Campground appreciate the spacing between sites. One visitor said, "Great spacing between sites and offers miles of hiking and biking trails."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Dunewood Campground. A camper warned, "The mosquitoes here are insane!!!"
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Van Buren State Park Campground, can be noisy. One review mentioned, "Nearby highway noise which I dislike."
  • Site Privacy: Campers at Weko Beach Campground noted the lack of privacy. A visitor said, "The sites in this loop are so tiny you’re basically on top of your neighbors."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Potato Creek State Park Campground. One parent mentioned, "Great playground on the east side of the first loop."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose campgrounds near beaches, such as Warren Dunes State Park Campground, where kids can enjoy climbing dunes and swimming. A camper noted, "The beach is just down the drive."
  • Cabin Rentals: Consider cabins for a more comfortable stay. Tippecanoe River State Park Campground offers cabins that are great for families. One visitor shared, "The cabins are small but perfectly fine for our group."

Tips from RVers:

  • Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, provide electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "Sites are electric only, but there’s several water fills."
  • Big Rig Friendly: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs, such as Camp Bullfrog Lake. One review stated, "The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has dump stations for convenience. Michigan City Campground has facilities that make it easy for RVers to manage waste. A visitor noted, "The staff is helpful and the pool full of children."

Camping near New Buffalo, Michigan, has something for everyone. From beautiful beaches to family-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty to enjoy while making lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near New Buffalo, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New Buffalo, MI is Dunewood Campground — Indiana Dunes National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 126 reviews.

What parks are near New Buffalo, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near New Buffalo, MI that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.

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