89% (185) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cedar Lake
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
16mi from Cedar Lake · 6 sites · Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
CSC Permaculture Project
2. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
47mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Tippecanoe River Stays
3. Tippecanoe River Stays
80%
(5)
49mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
207 sites · Limestone, Illinois
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Indiana Dunes National Park
5. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(41)
66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Creekside Dunes
6. Creekside Dunes
28mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
7. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
8.4mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Lazy Creek Camping
8. Lazy Creek Camping
86%
(7)
37mi from Cedar Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
River Dream
9. River Dream
49mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
-
Pets
Electrical hookup
from
$50
/ night
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
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
Toilets
Campfires
Channahon State Park
11. Channahon State Park
25 sites · Channahon, Illinois
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Tippecanoe River State Park
12. Tippecanoe River State Park
67%
(4)
182 sites · Winamac, Indiana
Discover Tippecanoe River State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hickey Homestead
13. Hickey Homestead
46mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$48
/ night
RC River Retreat
14. RC River Retreat
16mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
89% (185) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cedar Lake
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
96%
(24)
16mi from Cedar Lake · 6 sites · Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
CSC Permaculture Project
2. CSC Permaculture Project
99%
(135)
47mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Tippecanoe River Stays
3. Tippecanoe River Stays
80%
(5)
49mi from Cedar Lake · 5 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Kankakee River State Park
4. Kankakee River State Park
100%
(2)
207 sites · Limestone, Illinois
Walk among sacred land and water at this unspoiled state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Indiana Dunes National Park
5. Indiana Dunes National Park
95%
(41)
66 sites · Dune Acres, Indiana
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Creekside Dunes
6. Creekside Dunes
28mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging
Wooded lot very close to the Indiana dunes national lake shore located close to down town Chesterton Indiana!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
7. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
93%
(57)
8.4mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Lazy Creek Camping
8. Lazy Creek Camping
86%
(7)
37mi from Cedar Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
River Dream
9. River Dream
49mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
-
Pets
Electrical hookup
from
$50
/ night
Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
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
Toilets
Campfires
Channahon State Park
11. Channahon State Park
25 sites · Channahon, Illinois
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Tippecanoe River State Park
12. Tippecanoe River State Park
67%
(4)
182 sites · Winamac, Indiana
Discover Tippecanoe River State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hickey Homestead
13. Hickey Homestead
46mi from Cedar Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$48
/ night
RC River Retreat
14. RC River Retreat
16mi from Cedar Lake · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$240
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp 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!
See more
B
Ben
October 2025
With kids
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.
See more
C
Camilla
October 2025
With pets
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.
See more
Vanisa
September 2025
With kids
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.
See moreW
Weslynne
September 2025
With kids
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!
See more
s
smita
September 2025
With kids
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.
See moreJ
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.
See more
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.
See more
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
See moreD
David
August 2025
With kids
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!
See moreB
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.
See moreAmanda
July 2025
With pets
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.
See more
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
See more
R
Raymond
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tippecanoe River Stays
Excellent location. Quiet, comfortable. Very well supplied and clean
See moreD
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.
See moreL
Lori
May 2025
With pets
The land was beautiful; my girls enjoyed petting the goats. The cabin was charming.
See more
A
Adam
May 2025
Weekend Trip to CSC Permaculture Project
Sweet spot. Very peaceful. Great hosts. Many birds. Beautiful sunrise. Lovely campfire spot.
Enjoy
See moreD
Davin
November 2024
Weekend Trip to Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Derek was super helpful and responsive! Cute RV and super comfy bed! Has all your amenities and nice and quiet. Highly recommend!
See more
