The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Cedar Lake, Indiana

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Cedar Lake, Indiana with a preference for being close to a river, you're in luck. We have over 280 options available that meet your specific criteria. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. Check out our top campsites with glowing reviews: Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews). You'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, the ability to bring your pets, and the option to have campfires. Plus, you can engage in exciting activities such as off-roading (OHV), whitewater paddling, and horseback riding. Get ready to immerse yourself in the great outdoors!

89% (185)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Cedar Lake, Indiana with a preference for being close to a river, you're in luck. We have over 280 options available that meet your specific criteria. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. Check out our top campsites with glowing reviews: Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and Horseshoe Bend (137 reviews). You'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, the ability to bring your pets, and the option to have campfires. Plus, you can engage in exciting activities such as off-roading (OHV), whitewater paddling, and horseback riding. Get ready to immerse yourself in the great outdoors!

89% (185)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. CSC Permaculture Project

99%

(135)

47mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · Cabery, IL

8.7 Acres, One Vision.We Are Building A Demonstration Project That Shows How To Create Truly Sustainable Community. Using Permaculture.Our idea is to:-Develop the overall biological health of the property, thereby increasing abundance and sustainable utilization of the land-Utilize the space for educational and demonstration purposes in accordance with our vision, mission, and goals-Create approaches and programs (Like Hipcamp!) to make the property economically self-supporting and capable of generating income for the CSC and for individuals working upon the property-Support the experience of community on the property by providing opportunities for meaningful relationships among those who work with the land and among those who visit the property for recreation, education, and meditation-Work to make the property inviting to the CSC participants, Stelle residents, and community visitors

2. Tippecanoe River Stays

80%

(5)

49mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · Winamac, IN

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Tippecanoe River, our unique collection of accommodations offers something for every type of traveler, from rustic adventurers to those seeking a cozy retreat with modern comforts. Whether you're looking to fully disconnect in a primitive cabin surrounded by nature or enjoy the charm of a rustic studio with essential amenities, our property provides a variety of experiences to suit your preferences. - Primitive Cabin #1: This is a primitive cabin overlooking the Tippecanoe River. There's a toilet facility near the cabin. It includees one double bed with NO sheets or pillows provided. There's an upper bunk area that sleeps two, a picnic table, and firewood. - Primitive Cabin #2: The cabin has 1 double bed and loft sleeping. No beds, sheets, pillows or blankets are provided in the loft. The cabin has no electricity or no water inside but does have a flushing toilet near and a hand wash station nearby. - German Haus - a private rustic studio cabin with Queen bed, a twin daybed, kitchenette, 2 chairs, kitchen table, and shower bathroom. It's great for the outdoor type person. - The Kite Suite: This is a family suite with King bed bedroom, a queen bed with overhead single sleeper, and available rollaway. It has a full bathroom, WIFI, TV, kitchenette with MW, coffee pot, toaster oven, sink, and utensils. - The Oriental Suite: This suite has a Queen bed and single daybed sleeper with a jacuzzi tub bathroom for single/double occupancy. Has a sitting room, wide screen TV, Internet TV, kitchenette, fridge, MW, toaster oven, full kitchen utensils, and coffee pot. Overlooks River and woods.

3. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%

(24)

16mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · Gary, IN

This is a hidden gem in the outskirts of Gary. Located on the Calumet river is this amazing horse farm with 3 horses and 4 ponies. It’s 1 mile off of the 80/94 and 65 highway. Only a 45 min drive from Chicago. We also offer free parking to Miller Beach on Lake Michigan which is only a 10 min drive to there and the Indiana Dunes. Theres also Deep River Dam where you can drop your kayak and do some fishing less then a mile away. Pet fee 50 dollars for 1st pet 25 dollars for 2nd pet (75) 2 max pets

4. Kankakee River State Park

100%

(2)

207 sites · Limestone, Illinois

Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Indiana Dunes National Park

95%

(40)

66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana

Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

6. Hickey Homestead

46mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Remington, IN

The Campground at Hickey Homestead features primitive camping and a Pop-up camper for a fuss free excursion. Meet Carrie the Resident Horse! Rides and feeding available through C+T livestock, upon request. The "Laissez-Faire" Grounds offers the more free spirited of us, the freedom to strip away the obligations of modern life and let it all loose! This area is Nestled at the back of the property and away from unsuspecting visitors and features a sun deck.

7. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%

(57)

8.4mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Crown Point, IN

Learn more about this land: Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan! We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.

8. Lazy Creek Camping

86%

(7)

37mi from Cedar Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Winamac, IN

26ft Camper sleeps 4 with AC/Heat , Refrigerator, Running Water No public restrooms. Fire ring and picnic table on sites. 30 Amp service Lots to do within the area There is a nice golf coarse within 2 miles and river floating in town and nice bar & grill right around the corner. Will give exact address after reservations complete. Open May 1 ,2025 Close Oct 24, 2025

9. Creekside Dunes

28mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Chesterton, IN

Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!

10. Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

22 sites · Channahon, Illinois

Experience an echo of the expansive natural prairies of an Illinois past when you come to Des Plaines Fish & Wildlife Area. The tranquil vibes of the park will refresh your soul. The smooth flowing rivers and natural prairie lands stretch across the horizon—making that campfire glow all the more spectacular. There is so much diversity at this park; woodland turns to farmland, prairie turns to swamp, calm waters turn to rushing rivers. This makes for an exceptional array of epic outdoor activities to partake in. We’re talking something for nature lovers and huntsmen alike. The fishing here is on point, with bass, walleye, northern pike, and catfish jumping at the bait on the banks of Miliken Lake and Kankakee River. Explore the acres of naturally preserved beauty, embrace the lush water sources, and just have a hell of a good time all around at this park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Channahon State Park

25 sites · Channahon, Illinois

This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Tippecanoe River State Park

67%

(4)

182 sites · Winamac, Indiana

Discover Tippecanoe River State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. River Dream

49mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Monticello, IN

Peaceful lot on the Tippecanoe River. Fish from the riverfront patio, put in you kayak, or park you pontoon after a day of boating on Lake Shafer. Enjoy a fire in the evening on this wooded lot. -

14. RC River Retreat

16mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Momence, IL

Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax. With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system. 2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock. Non-smoking. The space We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs. Guest access The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners. Other things to note There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four). So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.

Camper favorites near Cedar Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Hickey Homestead

46mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Remington, IN

The Campground at Hickey Homestead features primitive camping and a Pop-up camper for a fuss free excursion. Meet Carrie the Resident Horse! Rides and feeding available through C+T livestock, upon request. The "Laissez-Faire" Grounds offers the more free spirited of us, the freedom to strip away the obligations of modern life and let it all loose! This area is Nestled at the back of the property and away from unsuspecting visitors and features a sun deck.

Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%

(57)

8.4mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Crown Point, IN

Learn more about this land: Come enjoy a stay at the rustic Hruby Ranch. 50 acres of private land to explore. A cozy comfortable excursion tent with queen bed. There are trails throughout of which you are free to explore. And our animals will surely delight. A fire pit is always a wonderful way to end the day. Located 12 minutes from I 65 and 15 minutes from downtown Crown Point and 20 from Valporaiso. If the beach is more your style, we are 25 minutes from the Indiana dunes and Lake Michigan! We are in winter/inclimate weather conditions, all stays are hike in and out approximately 150yards from the barn and stable areas.

Lazy Creek Camping

86%

(7)

37mi from Cedar Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Winamac, IN

26ft Camper sleeps 4 with AC/Heat , Refrigerator, Running Water No public restrooms. Fire ring and picnic table on sites. 30 Amp service Lots to do within the area There is a nice golf coarse within 2 miles and river floating in town and nice bar & grill right around the corner. Will give exact address after reservations complete. Open May 1 ,2025 Close Oct 24, 2025

Creekside Dunes

28mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Chesterton, IN

Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!

River Dream

49mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Monticello, IN

Peaceful lot on the Tippecanoe River. Fish from the riverfront patio, put in you kayak, or park you pontoon after a day of boating on Lake Shafer. Enjoy a fire in the evening on this wooded lot. -

RC River Retreat

16mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Momence, IL

Relax and unwind on the river! Whether alone, a couple, group or family everyone will enjoy this beautiful home. Relax by the river, fire pit or fireplace and enjoy! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, kitchen, living room and some nooks and crannies to relax. With Wi-fi, Dish tv, charcoal and gas grill (bring your own charcoal or propane), games, books and indoor/outdoor stereo system. 2 public ramps within 5 miles to launch your watercraft or just fish off of the dock. Non-smoking. The space We have done our best to offer you and your guests a comfortable stay. Each room has plenty of storage. There are dressers and closets for your belongings. The kitchen should have all your cooking needs. Guest access The house is all yours! The garage and the shed are for the private use of the owners. Other things to note There are many outdoor games (corn hole, Ladder Ball, yard Yahtzee, yard Jenga and Yard Connect Four). So there's no surprises; we have satellite dish for internet. Due to the limited options of our rural location, this may result in spotty internet that is also impacted by the weather.

Public campgrounds near Cedar Lake

100%

(1)

Potawatomi Campground

29mi from Cedar Lake · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

A shallow part of rock creek, near the campground.

100%

(1)

Chippewa Campground

30mi from Cedar Lake · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park

Equestrian Campground

31mi from Cedar Lake · 8 sites · in Kankakee River State Park

95%

(40)

Dunewood Campground

32mi from Cedar Lake · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indiana Dunes National Park

Des Plaines Campground

41mi from Cedar Lake · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

Channahon Campground

41mi from Cedar Lake · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park

67%

(4)

Tippecanoe River Campground

47mi from Cedar Lake · 182 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tippecanoe River State Park

Stories from the community

R

Raquel

October 2025

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

This was my favorite camping experience yet. The host was very helpful and hands on. The set up was perfect for sunny and rainy days. It was sooo cozy and had a private feel to it. The stars were sooo bright and clear. I enjoyed walking around the sight. I had everything I needed. I will come back to this site again!

Greg here is just stopping through for one night on his trip around the country. Was on his bucket list and he's doing it! Cabin is often open on weeknights.

B

Ben

October 2025

With kids

1 night at CSC Permaculture Project

This is the second visit to CSC. It’s a great, quiet, place. No other campers around. If you’re primary goal is to enjoy time at camp, and perhaps take some walks/short hikes around the property, it’s perfect. Planning to return again.

C

Camilla

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

We had a wonderful stay. Nice to have a getaway like this so close to the city. We enjoyed the site- absolutely beautiful view of ponies and goats. Camper was worn and comfortable and very well stocked. There’s some highway noise but it becomes like white noise- I didn’t notice it really. The host was incredibly nice and helpful and communicative. We hope to return.

Vanisa

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

The Hruby Ranch was everything we were hoping for and more. You can tell immediately that there is a lot of love put into the property. It is very well maintained and easy to do our overnight getaway, having comforts of home and still outdoor camping feeling. Seeing both sunset and sunrise from our site was so special. The animals were our kiddos favorite along with the trampoline! Thank you Tom and Ally for the hospitality, we hope to make this at least an annual getaway.

W

Weslynne

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

Wonderful, peaceful stay at CSC. First time in the earth shelter site, which made this such a comfortable sleep. Lots of space for tents too. We fished, biked, had dinner and games at the campfire, and overall had a wonderful relaxing visit. Bill helped us out with many small things that really made the visit extra special, like loaning us bug spray, getting my kids new fishing gear sorted and helping fix an issue with my car. Can't wait to go back!

s

smita

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

We had such a wonderful stay here! Derek is a very helpful and responsive host. My daughter absolutely loved all the animals — cats, dogs, horses, and goats — which made the trip extra special. The location is perfect, close to the beach and just a short drive from Chicago, so it was both relaxing and convenient. We would definitely love to come back again.

J

Jonathon

September 2025

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

My spouse and I had a great time at this camp - Bill gave us an excellent tour of the space and talked to us about their philosophy on permaculture. The cabin was comfortable - great place to get out of Chicago for a bit.

X

Xavier

August 2025

3 nights at CSC Permaculture Project

I originally booked this property simply as a place to film, expecting just a small house and some land to move around on. What I actually found was something far beyond that: a magical piece of earth, a community with a fascinating history, and hosts who were kind, inspiring, and deeply connected to the land. The property itself is breathtaking—everywhere I turned felt alive with meaning, from the gardens to the woods to the stars overhead. Within minutes of being here, I realized this wasn’t just a backdrop for my project—it was a character in the story itself. I learned about permaculture, about the unique history of the community, and left with new friends and a new perspective on what sustainable living can look like. My hosts were wonderful. They made me feel welcome, answered every question, and even took the time to give me a tour that changed the way I look at both farming and community. Their generosity and openness made this more than a stay—it was a life experience. If you’re looking for a getaway where the land feels alive, where every corner holds a story, and where you can breathe in something truly unique, this is it. I came here thinking I’d just make a film. I left with inspiration, gratitude, and a genuine connection to a place I’ll never forget.

Amanda

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

Love this place so much, this was my second time back and plan to come again next summer. Beautiful spot and beautiful beach 10 min away. It’s close to Illinois so it’s a short drive. Highly recommend

D

David

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project

What a great trip! Loved the beautiful cabin with tons of ambience. Lots of firewood available. Site has good privacy, although I highly recommend chatting with the friendly hosts and learning more about the permaculture. They've done really beautiful work creating a meaningful and abundant space. Cheers!

B

Ben

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

Great host, great place! Tips: bring bug spray and the water heater is a 6 gallon dudad. Great for camping, though. Enjoyed the rocking swing.

Amanda

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

I loved this place sooo much. The location was perfect and the private beach that we were able to go to from the Host was AMAZING! I unfortunately had to come later and leave earlier but I already booked another stay cause I cannot stop thinking about it! This was absolutely needed after a rough week. Cannot wait to go back. Highly recommend.

C

Carly

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Tippecanoe River Stays

Linda is such a great host. I felt very safe and welcomed. The primitive cabin #2 was well sealed from bugs and extremely clean! Would love to come back

R

Raymond

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Tippecanoe River Stays

Excellent location. Quiet, comfortable. Very well supplied and clean

D

Dr. Melissa

June 2025

2 nights at CSC Permaculture Project

My husband and I loved staying at the CSC's Earth Shelter. It was a beautiful site with lots of signs of thoughtful preparation by our hosts! There were benches around the firepit and on the porch, extra chairs to move around, a picnic table, plenty of firewood and dry kindling, and even a chiminea for a cozy porch fire in case the weather wasn't right for the firepit. The Earth Shelter was inspiring! We loved seeing it in person to appreciate all the care and expertise that went into building it. Very comfortable and well-maintained. We highly recommend it! Our hosts were wonderful as well- we had our choice of fresh-grown produce from their garden and a lovely tour of the land and area.

L

Lori

May 2025

With pets

1 night at CSC Permaculture Project

The land was beautiful; my girls enjoyed petting the goats. The cabin was charming.