The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Avilla, Indiana

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Avilla, Indiana? Hipcamp has over 450 options to choose from, ensuring you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. With options as low as $15 per night and an average price of $45 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out top-rated campsites like Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Long Haul Flower Farm (129 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and campfire areas. Whether you're into snow sports, surfing, or whitewater paddling, there's plenty of activities to keep you entertained. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

98% (281)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Avilla, Indiana? Hipcamp has over 450 options to choose from, ensuring you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. With options as low as $15 per night and an average price of $45 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out top-rated campsites like Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Long Haul Flower Farm (129 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and campfire areas. Whether you're into snow sports, surfing, or whitewater paddling, there's plenty of activities to keep you entertained. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

98% (281)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. River Camp Fort Wayne

98%

(216)

25mi from Avilla · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fort Wayne, IN

Each site is in a wooded, shaded area with a flat area on the ground to place a single large tent. Each site has its own fire ring and a small wooden table. There is wood on the ground you may use for firewood, and ample twigs etc on the ground for kindling (do not cut any trees or branches off trees). There is a covered firewood shed with dry firewood as well. There are maintained trails with river access for kayaks. There are 2 porta potties near the campsites with a handwashing station, that is open year round. There is a single bathroom with flush toilet and sink with running water that is a short walk away (open May-Oct depending on weather) There is an outdoor on-demand hot-water shower at bathroom, with a water hose available as well. On-demand hot water heaters provide hotter water at a low water pressure, and cooler water at full blast. We do provide a large trash bin near the porta potties for trash disposal. DO NOT throw trash into fire pits or burn barrels in the woods. Campsites are a short walk (100-200 feet) away from parking area (you CANNOT drive directly to or park at your campsite). Foster Park is a short bike ride away where you will find greenway trails that run throughout Fort Wayne (ride your bike to downtown!!) Our property backs up to the St Mary's River, bring you kayaks and fishing poles! (We reserve the right to assign you to a different (but equally beautiful) campsite in the case of property maintenance concerns, recent rain or weather conditions etc). All guests must be part of a registered group! Link to Trails Maps fwtrails.org Need to rent a bike or kayak: (we do not rent or provide kayaks, canoes or bikes onsite) fwoutfitters.com/#

2. Stay N Daze

97%

(34)

46mi from Avilla · 1 site · Tent · Union City, MI

9 acres of secluded woods with a maintained trail right off the Coldwater River, good for Kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Plenty of trees for shade and setting up a hammock. Good stargazing area at night! Across the street there is a county park, Riverbend Park, it is well maintained. Has a volleyball net, cornhole boards, horseshoe set-up, play-sets, pavilion and grills. This park also has access to the Coldwater River for even more fishing spots. I am currently trying to add a couple more spots this season and include a honors system farm stand with farm fresh produce, veggies, eggs, ect. Once the fruit trees and and bushes start getting established and bearing fruit, there will be a u-pick section as well coming in the future seasons ahead! 3.4 Miles from town where there is a grocery store, 5 miles from a dollar general. 15 minutes to Coldwater, MI. 35 Minutes from Battle Creek, MI 45 Minutes from Kalamazoo, MI.

3. Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

97%

(58)

16mi from Avilla · 4 sites · Lodging · Rome City, IN

You talk about social distancing Mirror Lake is the place for you. All of the Mirror Lake properties are private. There is 175 acres here at mirror lake and the lake is approximately 12 acres. With Amish farms and families all around. The Mirror Lake Bunkhouse has all amenities. You are welcome to cook over an open fire, use the grill or the small kitchen accessories provided. don’t forget the option is always available to go out to dinner with a restaurant only 4 miles away. Although we are located in the middle of the country. You can wake up to beautiful sunrises or take in breath taking sunset in the evening. The lake is a private lake owned by three property owners. Our Cabin # 2 “Old Phil” Is located on the west side of the lake in a 15 acre woods. About 1-1/2 miles away is Our cabin # 1 “Little Elk” Is located near the little Elkhart River. Nestled in its own 10 acre woods. Both of these properties are primitive ( no running water in an out house for a bathroom). Firewood is provided and there are trails in the woods to walk. The Mirror lake property has been a family farm for over 185 years. There is a family cemetery that dates to 1832. If you want to be around a lot of people in the fast track this is not the place for you. If you’re looking for peace, quiet, tranquil, social distance but still enjoyed this is the place for you!

4. Ouabache State Park

124 sites · Vera Cruz, Indiana

Discover Ouabache State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

5. Salamonie River State Forest

36 sites · Mount Etna, Indiana

Discover the natural beauty of Salamonie River State Forest.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

6. Backwoods River Camp WFBranch StJoe

100%

(1)

38mi from Avilla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reading, MI

🌲 Backwoods River Camp – Reading, Michigan 🌲 Escape to southern Michigan’s countryside at Backwoods River Camp. Set on acres of rolling hills, wildflower meadows, shady forests, and a peaceful river, this camp is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. ✨ What you’ll find here: Scenic trails through mature woods – great for hiking, biking, or a quiet stroll. Equestrian-friendly camping – bring your horse for rides across fields and forest paths (boarding available). River adventures – go tubing, cast a line for fishing, or cool off in the water. Nearby lakes – just minutes away for boating, kayaking, and swimming. Wildlife & stargazing – watch deer and songbirds by day, fireflies and star-filled skies by night. ⛺ Ways to stay: Pitch a tent in the meadows Park your camper in an open space (leveling may be needed) Camp alongside your horse At night, gather around a campfire, swap stories, and enjoy the peace of being tucked away in nature. Each season brings new beauty—spring wildflowers, summer riverside fun, autumn colors, and year-round stargazing. 📍 Location: Conveniently close to Reading, MI, yet far enough to feel truly off the grid. Backwoods River Camp isn’t just a campsite—it’s an experience. Come for the fields, forests, and riverbanks. Stay for the quiet, the wildlife, and the memories.

7. Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

98%

(30)

48mi from Avilla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Mendon, MI

This stylish home and property sets the stage for a one of a kind stay. The unique setting is quiet and comfortable, makes you believe that you are hours away from civilization but you're only a short drive from the city and in close proximity of US 131, Interstate 94, M60 and M66. Fishing and kayaking year round, unique decks and gardens overlooking a private eight acre pond encompass this back to nature lifestyle. We're located right on the Portage River that feeds into what locals call The Mighty St. Joe. Maybe you'd like to take a rural walk or run, listen to the frogs and the birds ~ yet minutes away from Portage or Kalamazoo and a short drive from major highways. A 20 minute nature walk around Pondor Lake will surly calm your soul and heart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We can accommodate larger groups! Just let us know what you need and how we can make your stay memorable. Do you have a boat? No problem ~ public accesses to neighboring Portage and Fishers Lake, along with the St. Joseph River, are literally minutes away. Staying at Pondor Lake will be memorable and relaxing. Pondor Lake ~ a private place to ponder.

8. Creekside Acres / N. Manchester

96%

(39)

37mi from Avilla · 1 site · Lodging · North Manchester, IN

We moved to our 3 1/2 acre property in 2012 to escape town life and to enjoy a more simple family life. Nestled among the trees, our home is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy what God created - singing birds, fragrant flowers, colorful sunsets, gigantic ancient sycamores, and rushing creek waters. We're excited to share this beautiful area, especially the adorable shed and gardens we created for others to experience the peace of God. It's our hope that many will discover the tranquility we have come to appreciate here.Learn more about this land:The Shed Retreat is a sacred space for anyone looking to shed their worries, fears, and busy schedules. Once a home for goats located in a secluded area on our property, it is now a peaceful garden oasis among the trees for those seeking a break from the norm. Inside, you can enjoy a cozy and relaxing place to lounge or rest. Outside, you can spend time around the fire pit, collect fresh eggs for breakfast, kayak on a nearby river, bike to local ice cream shops, or take a nap in a hammock.

9. Graber Oasis

100%

(3)

33mi from Avilla · 2 sites · RVs · White Pigeon, MI

Located halfway between Chicago and Detroit in the heart of Amish country, we are a third generation regenerative hay and multi-species farm. Your rustic, riverside campsite with unobstructed sunset views over our organic hay field awaits. Enjoy relaxing by the peaceful Fawn River. Bring your Michigan fishing license and when you're done rounding up your catch of the day, relax by the campfire while it cooks. Please note that Michigan Hunting Season may require that you set up camp near the homestead rather than by the woods. If you have any questions, please ask. Local attractions include a world-renowned flea market, Amish-Mennonite Museum, Amish bulk food store, gift shops of all kinds, restaurants, dinner theater, paved bike paths, soft pretzels, ice cream, and so much more. *Camping only available near buildings during hunting season October 1, 2025 - January 1, 2026. *

Camper favorites near Avilla

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Backwoods River Camp WFBranch StJoe

100%

(1)

38mi from Avilla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reading, MI

🌲 Backwoods River Camp – Reading, Michigan 🌲 Escape to southern Michigan’s countryside at Backwoods River Camp. Set on acres of rolling hills, wildflower meadows, shady forests, and a peaceful river, this camp is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. ✨ What you’ll find here: Scenic trails through mature woods – great for hiking, biking, or a quiet stroll. Equestrian-friendly camping – bring your horse for rides across fields and forest paths (boarding available). River adventures – go tubing, cast a line for fishing, or cool off in the water. Nearby lakes – just minutes away for boating, kayaking, and swimming. Wildlife & stargazing – watch deer and songbirds by day, fireflies and star-filled skies by night. ⛺ Ways to stay: Pitch a tent in the meadows Park your camper in an open space (leveling may be needed) Camp alongside your horse At night, gather around a campfire, swap stories, and enjoy the peace of being tucked away in nature. Each season brings new beauty—spring wildflowers, summer riverside fun, autumn colors, and year-round stargazing. 📍 Location: Conveniently close to Reading, MI, yet far enough to feel truly off the grid. Backwoods River Camp isn’t just a campsite—it’s an experience. Come for the fields, forests, and riverbanks. Stay for the quiet, the wildlife, and the memories.

Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

98%

(30)

48mi from Avilla · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Mendon, MI

This stylish home and property sets the stage for a one of a kind stay. The unique setting is quiet and comfortable, makes you believe that you are hours away from civilization but you're only a short drive from the city and in close proximity of US 131, Interstate 94, M60 and M66. Fishing and kayaking year round, unique decks and gardens overlooking a private eight acre pond encompass this back to nature lifestyle. We're located right on the Portage River that feeds into what locals call The Mighty St. Joe. Maybe you'd like to take a rural walk or run, listen to the frogs and the birds ~ yet minutes away from Portage or Kalamazoo and a short drive from major highways. A 20 minute nature walk around Pondor Lake will surly calm your soul and heart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We can accommodate larger groups! Just let us know what you need and how we can make your stay memorable. Do you have a boat? No problem ~ public accesses to neighboring Portage and Fishers Lake, along with the St. Joseph River, are literally minutes away. Staying at Pondor Lake will be memorable and relaxing. Pondor Lake ~ a private place to ponder.

Creekside Acres / N. Manchester

96%

(39)

37mi from Avilla · 1 site · Lodging · North Manchester, IN

We moved to our 3 1/2 acre property in 2012 to escape town life and to enjoy a more simple family life. Nestled among the trees, our home is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy what God created - singing birds, fragrant flowers, colorful sunsets, gigantic ancient sycamores, and rushing creek waters. We're excited to share this beautiful area, especially the adorable shed and gardens we created for others to experience the peace of God. It's our hope that many will discover the tranquility we have come to appreciate here.Learn more about this land:The Shed Retreat is a sacred space for anyone looking to shed their worries, fears, and busy schedules. Once a home for goats located in a secluded area on our property, it is now a peaceful garden oasis among the trees for those seeking a break from the norm. Inside, you can enjoy a cozy and relaxing place to lounge or rest. Outside, you can spend time around the fire pit, collect fresh eggs for breakfast, kayak on a nearby river, bike to local ice cream shops, or take a nap in a hammock.

Graber Oasis

100%

(3)

33mi from Avilla · 2 sites · RVs · White Pigeon, MI

Located halfway between Chicago and Detroit in the heart of Amish country, we are a third generation regenerative hay and multi-species farm. Your rustic, riverside campsite with unobstructed sunset views over our organic hay field awaits. Enjoy relaxing by the peaceful Fawn River. Bring your Michigan fishing license and when you're done rounding up your catch of the day, relax by the campfire while it cooks. Please note that Michigan Hunting Season may require that you set up camp near the homestead rather than by the woods. If you have any questions, please ask. Local attractions include a world-renowned flea market, Amish-Mennonite Museum, Amish bulk food store, gift shops of all kinds, restaurants, dinner theater, paved bike paths, soft pretzels, ice cream, and so much more. *Camping only available near buildings during hunting season October 1, 2025 - January 1, 2026. *

Public campgrounds near Avilla

Ouabache Campground

45mi from Avilla · 124 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouabache State Park

Salamonie River Campground

45mi from Avilla · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salamonie River State Forest

Stories from the community

T

Theodore

November 2025

1 night at River Camp Fort Wayne

Wonderful! This location is an amazing place to unwind and relax.

T

Theodore

November 2025

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

Loved staying at this location! Nice lodging, beautiful area, a truly wonderful place to unwind!

N

Nick

October 2025

1 night at River Camp Fort Wayne

I enjoyed exploring the property and the cabin was adequate for my needs.

J

Jennifer

October 2025

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

This was my first camping experience and I couldn't have picked a better place. The property is absolutely stunning! I can't wait to return in the summer, but I'm so glad we got to see the fall colors. Such a short walk to the river, which is just gorgeous. The cabin was perfect for us. The wood stove and water system were super easy to use and having a TV was a cherry on top! Lol. There were little touches everywhere of things that were either helpful or just plain charming. My main concern, being a first-timer was safety and that box was definitely checked. It's a perfect spot for a couple, a family with children or a group of college kids. We just left and I can't say enough. Thanks, Marla, for an amazing time!

C

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Stay N Daze

Love this site, private and pretty peaceful, can relax by the river or for short hikes in the property, nice being gated as well. Park across the street has a short trail that follows the river and public restrooms. Great host will always return.

Christine

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Backwoods River Camp WFBranch StJoe

If I could give this 10 stars, I would. Peaceful serenity at its finest. I'm a seasoned, rustic camper & decided on a spontaneous, last minute weekend away & came across Way Way Back & their Bell Tent. Knowing it was going to be a beautiful day Saturday, but rain Saturday night & Sunday, I didn't want to waste the weekend. But not having to take down a wet tent & pack wet gear, that sounded wonderful. Wonderful is exactly what it was. I got there later than expected Friday night & it was pitch dark. Jeremy was in contact with me during my drive down & told me to message him when I was close so he could lead me to the tent. Unfortunately I didn't have cell signal as soon as I was about 1.5 mile away, but I stopped at the house & he led the way. Was I ever happy that he did, daylight wouldn't have been difficult. I was delighted to discover that I was the 1st guest of the Bell Tent & was it ever cozy. I lit a fire, got situated, then slept luke a baby. When I woke the next morning to a breathtaking view of the fields & woodsnext to me, I was very excited. My dogs lived it too, 15 yr old Maggie decided to wander into the woods to discover a nlce little river, he favorite. To my surprise she was sharing a drink with beautiful doe only 5 ft from her. Only wish ai had my camera to catch that special moment. Zowie and I walked up about 10 ft away & just watched for a few moments before she wandered off. I can't wait to go back!!

I

Israel

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

We loved Kathy's place, the small cabin is surrounded by trees. The lake is close and had a very nice view, there are trails for hiking. Our stay was quiet and relaxed and that was exactly what we were looking for. Thank you.

A

Aidan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

Very nice woods and Marla and her husband were extremely nice. The Disc Golf is pretty fun too! Would defintly come back again.

Alexa

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stay N Daze

Loved the spot! It was perfect for what we needed. Had a blast ☺️

K

Kydeem

October 2025

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

I loved the cabin at Marla's. It also has nice views, cool little trails and a nice place by the water to relax.

H

Haylea

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

We stayed in campsite one. It was really nice and not too far from the parking spots. The bathroom was also nice and not too far of a walk from the campsite. We will definitely be back again. We loved that they provided firewood! Just be prepared to carry your camping stuff to your site, they do have wagons but when we went everyone else had taken them already and kept them at their sites so we had nothing to use to haul our stuff to our site.

D

Deanna

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

Great time with our young kids! The river is beautiful

Neil

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Stay N Daze

Excellent location for a stay. Isolated with flowing waters. Highly recommended.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at River Camp Fort Wayne

Even though it's in Fort Wayne. It was nice and secluded and peaceful.

M

Marisa

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stay N Daze

I loved tent camping on Josh’s land! Very nice spot for hammocking and nice river access! The property is very well kept! Josh was very kind and made us feel welcome.

Site # 2 is about half way down the pond from the main house. A dock, suitable for sunbathing, picnicking or fishing is just steps away from this site.

T

Tsali

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

I loved camping here. Robin is very welcoming and her property is very nice. Definitely recommend staying here.

N

Neil

September 2025

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

The cabin had convenient access and parking, good amenities, and above all was cozy!

M

Martin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

This is the second time I have stayed at the cabin and both times have been an amazing experience! The amenities offered are amazing! I felt connected to the outdoors while still being able to enjoy the comforts of a clean and well supplied facility! A great way to get away for the weekend without all the hassles of traditional tent camping. A great way to dip your toe into camping before going all out into a tent.

S

Steve

September 2025

Tent

1 night at River Camp Fort Wayne

Great place. The owners are very nice people. I recommend going there.

T

Tyler

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

The campgrounds were clean and maintained. It was easy to get to and quite. I only stayed for one night, but I enjoyed myself thoroughly. I'd recommend for anyone to give it a chance. Being so close to the river was delightful and I'll be returning again in the future.