Camping Near Fort Wayne, IN, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

99% (870 reviews)

Fort Wayne is one of Indiana’s largest cities. In an hour’s drive, the concrete jungle gives way to forests, lakes, and plains. Here, you can camp among the trees, paddle water trails, and hike rolling hills. Prefer to stay close to downtown? Camp on the St. Joseph River at the Johnny Appleseed Campground. Or, stay connected at a private RV park with Wi-Fi and full hookups. In-town camping areas offer access to 100 miles of family-friendly trails. During the summer, cool off at one of the lakes near Fort Wayne. At Chain O’ Lakes State Park, book a cabin or one of 200+ campsites. Near Garrett, the family-friendly Bixler Lake Park is ideal for fishing and swimming. Watch wildlife from your tent camping site at Salamonie Lake. The best time for camping in Fort Wayne is from spring to fall. The warm summers are ideal for swimming; fall brings stunning colors. Winters are cold—book an RV site or camping cabin to stay warm.

Popular camping styles for Fort Wayne

Top-rated campgrounds

99% (870 reviews)

Fort Wayne is one of Indiana’s largest cities. In an hour’s drive, the concrete jungle gives way to forests, lakes, and plains. Here, you can camp among the trees, paddle water trails, and hike rolling hills. Prefer to stay close to downtown? Camp on the St. Joseph River at the Johnny Appleseed Campground. Or, stay connected at a private RV park with Wi-Fi and full hookups. In-town camping areas offer access to 100 miles of family-friendly trails. During the summer, cool off at one of the lakes near Fort Wayne. At Chain O’ Lakes State Park, book a cabin or one of 200+ campsites. Near Garrett, the family-friendly Bixler Lake Park is ideal for fishing and swimming. Watch wildlife from your tent camping site at Salamonie Lake. The best time for camping in Fort Wayne is from spring to fall. The warm summers are ideal for swimming; fall brings stunning colors. Winters are cold—book an RV site or camping cabin to stay warm.

Popular camping styles for Fort Wayne

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sheepy Acres

99%

(190)

6 sites · Lodging, Tents · Lagrange, IN

Small hobby sheep farm, with a sheep pasture surrounded by woods. There are two shepherd's huts, three tent sites, a small fishing pond with a log cabin and a quarter of a mile hiking trail. It is a bird lovers paradise with a large variety of birds. The fisherman's cabin has electricity. The shepherd's huts are off grid, as well as, the tent sites. Each site is very private and has a fire ring and picnic table and benches.

2. River Camp Fort Wayne

98%

(212)

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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/#

3. Fallen Tree Campground

99%

(71)

8 sites · Lodging, Tents · Albion, IN

Fallen Tree Co is located directly next to Chain O’Lakes State Park, were you can swim, hike, fish, kayak, etc.! Your space has access to a shared bathroom, shower, kitchen, dining room, living room, etc. Be sure to grab a coffee or a hot tea and walk our beautifully lit trails that will give you a sense of peace and maybe a bit of magic. The campground covers 7 acres and is partially wooded with some mature trees and lots of young forest. We are working hard to turn it all back into native land, one tree at a time. All sites are primitive with no electricity or running water. Fallen Tree also has chickens and geese! We would love to introduce you to all of our feathered friends.

4. Mercer County Fairgrounds

179 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Celina, OH

Experience the unique charm of camping at the Mercer County Fairgrounds, where you can immerse yourself in a serene environment from May through October. This campground offers a tranquil escape, making it perfect for both weekend getaways and extended stays. The fairgrounds feature paved driveways that are ideal for leisurely walks or biking, ensuring you can explore the area comfortably. One of the standout attractions is the half-mile racetrack, where you can often catch harness horses training in the mornings, adding a distinctive touch to your camping experience. In addition to the peaceful setting, the surrounding area boasts various outdoor activities, including nearby natural features and swimming holes. You'll also find a selection of restaurants and shops just a short drive away, making it easy to enjoy local cuisine and amenities during your stay. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, the Mercer County Fairgrounds offers a memorable camping experience.

5. Orchard/Cidery/Meadery on 12 acres!

98%

(20)

7 sites · RVs, Tents · Hoagland, IN

Enjoy camping at a Orchard, Cidery, and Meadery! Bring a tent to camp, or an RV. We offer a tent camping spot and several RV spots. Enjoy the tasting room when open (Friday and Saturday) Hang out with the chickens. Take a walk around the property and through the orchard. Bathroom is available via porta potty. It is cleaned weekly and we have a hand wash station along with bug spray.

6. Songdog Meadows

99%

(250)

1 site · RV, Tent · Angola, IN

Home Sweet Home, tucked in the heart of agriculture and lake life, Angola is a wonderful small town in the north east corner of Indiana. Songdog Meadows is our little piece of joy, from morning swims in the pond, long walks with our retrievers and sunsets to take your breath away, it is truly and deeply a treasure we cherish. The property host a variety of apple trees, open grass land, and a large cluster of trees surrounding a 3/4 acre pond, while being surrounded by wood lots on three sides and open fields to the west. It is truly a peaceful haven in a rural country area. Learn more about this land:Hang your hammock or pitch a tent just outside our 3/4 acre pond. There are two basins with a channel and a peaceful tree filled grass area between. The pond is in the corner of the 10 acre lot where we live at the end of a dirt road with only a small amount of traffic. The camp site is walk in on mowed pathways, with the driveway and parking area less than 200 yards away. There is a security light so you will never be in complete darkness. A stone fire pit and picnic table sit just off shore of the swimming area of the pond. There are several wide mowed pathways surrounded by prairie grasses, shaded by large trees. The area can easily handle several tents, hammocks and small RVs. The area is rural farm land with a handful of houses on the short dirt road. But this property is surrounded by wood lots and open fields. Two neighbors houses are visible but separated by trees. Our house is visible from the pond and camping area.

7. Shipshewana lake with channel

94%

(59)

1 site · RV · Shipshewana, IN

Learn more about this land: Shipshewana Lake with channel frontage Large Amish area Town of Shipshewana 2.5 miles many small specialty shops very touristy with the large flea market through out the summer Pumpkin vine bike trail starts about a mile from site Shipshewana Lake book shack Summer Jon Boat Rental Winter Ice Fishing

8. Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

97%

(58)

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!

9. Country Camping - Relax & Recharge

100%

(11)

1 site · RV · Saint Joe, IN

4 acres of rural country setting, 35 minutes northeast of Fort Wayne. Come enjoy the half-acre pond that is stocked with bluegill, catfish and bass. You may also see some turtles, blue heron, deer and other wildlife. We have walking trails on the property and a fire pit for use near the pond. Country roads are nice for bike riding or taking a walk.

10. The Fun Farm

97%

(54)

2 sites · RVs, Tents · Fort Wayne, IN

Learn more about this land: Our location is also home to our fantasy destination, The Fun Farm. Not only is the scenery replete with natural beauty - the pond, the fields, the sledding hill, the nature trail through the forest - but also a setting to engage the imagination! Additional services may be arranged on-site. For example, who would you like to have breakfast with? A superhero? A princess? Or perhaps a souvenir caricature of you and your group is in order to commemorate the experience? Maybe an experiential art, dance, drama or music lesson? Guided tours of the grounds can also be arranged to learn more about the history of the farm and it's originality. If you're interested in a "day trip" or even a limited event, we have the facilities to accommodate your birthday or holiday, engage in art Classes, raise funds for your good cause or enjoy "something different" for this year's corporate party. We're also open to your ideas for a custom school, festival or carnival event. We can accommodate groups from 1 to 400 (maybe more, if we send a few enchanted creatures on vacation!) MORE NOTES ABOUT THE CAMPSITE: We're flexible with wherever you would like to pitch your tent, but the spots we have established are next to our cabin (where the lighting is best and the ground is flattest.) Parking is most easily found next to these sites as well (and the lighting is also excellent.) Also, in the near vicinity, a shared firepit is readily available and can accommodate at least 12 people. Check out the additional options (like firewood bundles) below and let us know how we can help you make great memories!

11. The Firefly Nest

100%

(10)

1 site · Lodging · Hoagland, IN

The property is a "Glamp Site" featuring an astral bell tent with a queen and 2 twin beds with a table. The site also includes 2 hammocks, a picnic table, firepit with wood, and full bathroom with flush toilet, and hot water shower. The location is about 800' into the woods on a narrow winding path. located just outside of Fort Wayne away from the hustle and bustle but close to activities and amenities!

12. T&K Schoolhouse Camping

96%

(13)

1 site · RV, Tent · Delphos, OH

A School house converted to a home! We are sitting on 2.0 ac. located on a corner area in the country 6 miles from town. Surrounded by farm lands and open sky. Old country home located 18. Mi off of i-75 a mile from route 66 an 5 miles from route 30. the old miami Erie canal runs through many towns close by, within walking distance, biking or hiking. Ohio caverns are within 45 minutes of this location. A local tavern within a mile and the best ice cream in the area within five miles, " the creamery" of Delphos. Could just stay enjoy a game of cornhole or 9-hole golf on site.

13. Blue Water Lake

94%

(57)

21 sites · RVs, Tents · Montpelier, IN

Blue Water Lake is located next to the Salamonie River with fishing access in the lake or the river. Blue Water Lake was previously Baltes Stone Quarry deepest point 30 ft. Lime stone edged with a straight drop off in most places. Beach area available for swimming access. No lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk. Primitive camping available. Out house available. Less than a mile from Montpelier, a golf cart community. Small town still host Montpelier Speedway one of the last dirt tracks in Indiana. Races on most Saturday nights. You can also get a round of golf in at Bluewater Golf course 9 hole course located across the road from the lake. The land now covered by Montpelier used to be a part of the Native American Miami Nation's Godfroy Reserve. Giant Indian statue at our town center featured on Parks and Reaction TV Show.

14. Creekside Acres / N. Manchester

96%

(39)

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.

15. Country Bungalow

100%

(22)

1 site · Lodging · Fort Wayne, IN

We bought this one acre property tucked in the corner of the woods a little more than 2 years ago from the family who built it and lived here for 69 years. It was all original since 1946! The dairy and the farmland around us has been family-owned for over 100 years! Our little acre has become a sweet little hidden secret to all who visit. Quiet and beautiful, yet close to all the quaintness Fort Wayne has to offer. The sunrises are amazing! For nature lovers, there are so many different birds that frequent our trees, even an occasional Bald Eagle! We have renovated the tiny shed into an occasional repurpose shop and now are opening it up for a comfortable glamping spot! We continue to work on renovating our home to eventually welcome more guests. We feel like God saved this sweet spot just for us, so we can't help but share it with others! We hope all who stay, feel the same!

16. Bluffton Farm & Camp

100%

(3)

1 site · RV · Vera Cruz, IN

Welcome to Farm & Camp. We offer lots of level gravel for parking, fire pits, swings, and a country setting. Depending on the season and time of year, we will have goats, kittens, puppies, dogs all around the farm. We always have projects going on which could involve gardening, building, welding, woodworking, etc. We have a small basketball court, several small buildings, a large pin frame barn on site. There is a long grass lane back to a small woods if you need to take a walk and get away from it all. If you come in the spring or the fall you might be able to catch a ride in our nephews tractor, semi or combine. (Maybe even drive it!) Once farmed by grandpa Jacob Meyer, this farm has been passed down for 3 generations. At different times in life this farm has raised cows, sheep, pigs, goats, puppies, kittens, chickens, raccoons and various other animals. Take a tour of an old pin frame barn with 2 levels of lofts. Take a ride on an old WC tractor or stroll down the grass lane to get away from it all.

17. MCK's Pond

100%

(8)

5 sites · RVs · Paulding, OH

Small 4 hook-up lot. Great for one or two night stops while passing through the area. Lots overlook a 1.5 acre pond and a great sunset view. Cement and stone pads. No shade. Electric and water available on each lot. Quiet rural area 30 miles from city life of Ft. Wayne, IN or 60 miles from Toledo, OH. Pets are welcome, but please clean up after them.

18. Teaberry Wood Farm

1 site · Lodging · Middlebury, IN

Enjoy the sounds of nature when you stay in this unique place. This unit is on the grounds of Teaberry Wood Products... In the heart of Amish country... Rise n Roll bakery is less than a 1/2 mile from our location. The Pumpkin Vine bike trail is about a mile away, and the attractions in Shipshewana and Middlebury are within 4 miles. A safe place for your children… If you prefer to stay at one of our local campgrounds, we will set up our unit for $50.00 plus you would need to pay the campground. The space This has one bedroom with a full-size bed, also a pull-out couch in the slide. The unit is equipped with a gas stove for cooking and baking. Basic kitchen utensils are there for your use. Free WiFiis available. Other things to note We now have a fire ring if you want a campfire we also supply the firewood.

19. Stillwater Stables of Decatur

100%

(3)

4 sites · RVs · Decatur, IN

Learn more about this land:Quiet setting on a Horse Farm. On the outskirts of town. Access to miles of paved trails along the river for hiking or bicycling. There is a fishing pond 1 mile down the road. BYO canoe or kayak to cruise the St Mary’s river. Shops, great restaurants, movie theatre, sculpture tour, golf course, small-town music events every Thursday night in season.

20. 11 Acre Woods

100%

(1)

1 site · RV, Tent · Angola, IN

Quiet wooded area near well known Lake James area and other adjoining lakes around northern IN. Most of the property is wildlife preserve and is untouched for that very reason. Make your own trail wherever you please and view wildlife near the small pond. This is an off leash dog property but please be mindful of the neighbors on the perimiter. Deer and other wildlife frequent the area as well so don't be startled if you have a few visitors. This property is near the city and interstate, but the woods create a serene and quiet place to rest while still being near city attractions. *Please note, this property is partially started to initiate a full lodge-type space in the future. Please bear with us during our construction and transition phases! (We will get a website going soon)

Stories from the community

B

Bryan

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Titus has created a great little get away! The grounds were well kept and sites are all far enough away from each other that there is a lot of privacy. He was a very helpful and welcoming host. Would definitely recommend staying here. Google maps will try to take you to the wrong house (the one just before) so just make sure you look for the actual address. It’s the driveway lined with trees on both sides.

L

Lee Anne

4 days ago

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at The Fun Farm

My dogs and I really enjoyed the peaceful area and hiking around the pond. It was a great place for us to decompress after a stressful day at the dog show.

S

Stephanie

4 days ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Firefly Nest

Just as cool as the pictures! Had a really nice weekend here, Tim really thought of everything for conveniences- the tent & amenities, bathroom, fire pit, seating, firewood. Would absolutely go again.

There is a picnic table at the ponds edge. Please feel free to use it during your stay. There is also a bottle of Dr. Broner's available for you to use if you choose to bath in the pond.

Nova

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Songdog Meadows

We loved our stay! Our site was easy to get to and clean and prepped with firewood when we arrived. We tent camped with our 4 dogs and they absolutely loved the pond. One of the reasons we booked. The owner's respected our privacy and we knew they'd be accommodating if we needed them. We'd certainly stay again.

Kulani

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Centrally located to many interesting places. Titus very friendly and showed me where everything was. Showerhouse and outhouse(pump toilet) exceptionally clean and well stocked. Even had towels incase you forgot. Loved waking up in the morning with the sheep in the fields. It rained while I was there and Titus let me move to higher site with no issues. Hope to visit again in the future.

I

Israel

2 weeks ago

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.

N

Nicole

2 weeks ago

4 nights at The Firefly Nest

Our 2nd stay was fantastic like our first! This time it was a bit chilly at night. A efficient space heater was supplied. It kept the tent toasty! We also noticed a update to the fire pit! It worked fabulously for our camp cooking needs as well as enjoyable warm campfire nights. The fall leaves were beautiful and still provided a private camp experience. Love the attention to detail provided by Tim (host). Thankful for great hosts willing to share their property for hipcamp customers!

A

Aidan

3 weeks ago

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.

P

Parrish

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

We love Titus land it was so amazing and he was so nice and kind to us. I will be back again and again to get that great outdoor experience.

S

Scott

3 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Shipshewana lake with channel

Nice spot very private. Shawn was an excellent host. There was some neighborhood noise one afternoon but other than that it was good

a

antonio

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Amazing spot and atmosphere. Host was awesome and I felt welcomed. Drove almost 4 hours to reach the location and it was 100% worth the ride. They have an amazing set up. The cabin had everything you needed to spend a comfortable evening.

K

Kydeem

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

Great time with our young kids! The river is beautiful

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.

K

Katy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blue Water Lake

Had a wonderful time. Great fishing spot. Very quiet and peaceful.

B

Brian

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Charming property. Titus is a friendly host. The sites are spread which provides you with some degree of privacy. There were several thoughtful touches in how the place is set up. It’s very pleasant, and we may come back again some time. Two thumbs up!

S

Steven

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Firefly Nest

Great place. Clean and private. The site had everything. The welcome book with a list of things in the area was great

Ava

September 2025

1 night at Sheepy Acres

Super cute cabin, would’ve been tons of fun to spend more time and explore the area they’ve built for campers!

C

Chris

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Camp Fort Wayne

We loved staying here! Campsite 6 is the most remote, which we loved, and was right by the river. It was a large wide open space with lots of shade and plenty of wood for campfires. Our dog loved the wide open space too! The carts were a God-send to help us bring our stuff in! So thankful for them! Would love to return!!❤️