The best big rig friendly campgrounds near Fort Wayne, Indiana

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.

100% (17)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Wayne

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Wayne

1. T&K Schoolhouse Camping

96%

(13)

46mi from Fort Wayne · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

2. Mercer County Fairgrounds

47mi from Fort Wayne · 179 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

3. Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

100%

(7)

34mi from Fort Wayne · 7 sites · RVs

Walk or run barefoot. No chemicals on ground or in pond. Let the natural water and sun soak in. Enjoy the fresh air. Feel the grass between your toes. There is plenty of room for exercise and located on a quiet rural road for movement and walking. RV site and tent camping with pond in quiet rural setting. Renters can use Kayaks, Row boat, SUP boards, and paddle boat to enjoy the water. Water fountain in the middle is on a timer to enjoy the sound of moving water or it can be turned off or on all time. Bring your own toilet. Wood is available for $5 per bundle (roughly 5 pieces)

4. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Barton Lake

46mi from Fort Wayne · 450 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled conveniently between the vibrant metro areas of Detroit, Chicago, and Indianapolis, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Barton Lake stands out as a premier destination for family outdoor vacations. This expansive park features 540 campsites and over 40 cozy cabins, ensuring that all your camping or glamping desires are met. Guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of attractions designed for fun and relaxation. Dive into the excitement with an indoor pool and three outdoor pools, or splash around in the impressive Water Zone, complete with a splash pad and water playground. Thrill-seekers will love the three giant water slides, while those looking for a more leisurely experience can enjoy paddle boat and row boat rentals on the serene lake. For families, the park offers five playgrounds, a mini golf course, and a sandy swimming beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Additional amenities include pedal cart rentals, a spacious recreation building, kiddy train rides, wagon rides, basketball courts, horseshoes, and sand volleyball courts. With so much to explore, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Barton Lake is the ultimate outdoor retreat for families seeking adventure and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Diana

September 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

My favorite HipCamp spot! Loved the site for swimming, star gazing, relaxing peace, and a cyclist dream area to ride. Good cell service with both Verizon and ATT. Very well maintained campsite. Host very responsive. Private site and flat. My paraplegic dog enjoyed the site. We will be back for sure.

K

Kres

August 2025

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to T&K Schoolhouse Camping

We had a relaxing time at Shawn's Schoolhouse Camp. We were provided easy understandable directions and a great rate . We were greeted by the onsite property manager who was very nice . We were fortunate to have the whole place to ourselves and had our pick of sites. The property was very well kept. Very clean grounds. Beautiful mature trees and landscaping. There was a wonderful fire pit with cooktop so all that was needed was our utensils .The brats turned out magnificent! Nice picnic table area and chairs to relax in. Ample room for our pup to play . Had a nice bonfire later in the evening. When in the area we will most definitely look to see if he has availability for another stay.

L

Laura

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

We loved our weekend at Barefoot Retreat! The pond is naturally clean and it’s also stocked with fish. My husband enjoyed fishing and I enjoyed the paddle boards. The pond also features a water slide and diving board which I wasn’t aware of so it was a nice surprise. This place is so peaceful. The sunsets are stunning. Meditating on the dock at night paired with water sounds from the pond fountain really helped calm my mind. That matched with the moonlight and stars really made this place so dearly tranquil. Our three dogs really enjoyed roaming around. I’d say if you bring pets or kids definitely bring a canopy for shade because it gets toasty in the sun. We brought a canopy tent and that was a nice relief for all of us. We will be back!

J

Julie

August 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to T&K Schoolhouse Camping

We stopped for 1 night on our way home from Michigan back to Columbus just to break up the drive. Very peaceful, great sunset, nice shade, and the dogs loved it too. Shawn was very friendly and accommodating. Water and electric hook up and we could dump on our way out which is a great perk! Definitely recommend stay here.

m

mo

August 2025

30 ft Class C

1 night at T&K Schoolhouse Camping

This place is an oasis; nice, private little corner with excellent birding! Shawn was a very friendly and accommodating host.

M

Marc

July 2025

4 ft fifth wheel

4 nights at Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

A well maintained, quiet, out-of-the-way peaceful place to stay. Could be great for a family reunion or a bunch of friends that want to get together.

Anthony

July 2025

28 ft toy hauler

With pets

9 nights at T&K Schoolhouse Camping

This is a great spot for getting away from the busy campgrounds. Idyllic setting underneath trees and surrounded by corn fields. Shawn is a friendly and communicative host. Easy in and out for our trailer and not far from gas stations, a grocery store, and restaurants. Electric and water hookups available, plus a dump on the way out. Tons of outdoor areas including a garden bench and firepit. Highly recommend.

K

Kelly

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to T&K Schoolhouse Camping

This place is amazing! Nice shady spot. Friends and fire. Dog loved the smells. It really is a great place to stay. Hated to leave!

J

Janice

July 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at T&K Schoolhouse Camping

We loved staying at Shawn’s place. The kids had a blast playing on his G Croquet course. It is quiet and very well kept. Having a dumpster right there as you leave is huge. We had a great stay and will definitely be back. You can tell he loves having you and we enjoyed a great night out at the campfire. Definite must stay!!

D

Devynn

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to T&K Schoolhouse Camping

Was well maintained and nice. Lots of nice touches for games and enjoyable time.

Destiny

May 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

My stay was just a quick sleep and depart, but for the few hours I was there, I felt safe and my dogs had plenty of room to run around in. Although it was dark, it seemed very clean and peaceful. Would definitely stay again if given the opportunity.