The best pets off leash 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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

The larger basin of the pond, perfect for swimming, floating or just listening to the bullfrogs.

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

1. Songdog Meadows

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(251)

41mi from Fort Wayne · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

2. Sheepy Acres

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(195)

43mi from Fort Wayne · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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.

3. River Camp Fort Wayne

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5.6mi from Fort Wayne · 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/#

4. 11 Acre Woods

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41mi from Fort Wayne · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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)

5. Country Camping - Relax & Recharge

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23mi from Fort Wayne · 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.

6. Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

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(58)

34mi from Fort Wayne · 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!

7. Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

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(7)

34mi from Fort Wayne · 7 sites · RVs · Paulding, OH

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)

Camper favorites near Fort Wayne

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

11 Acre Woods

100%

(1)

41mi from Fort Wayne · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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)

Country Camping - Relax & Recharge

100%

(11)

23mi from Fort Wayne · 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.

Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

97%

(58)

34mi from Fort Wayne · 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!

Barefoot Retreat - Star Host

100%

(7)

34mi from Fort Wayne · 7 sites · RVs · Paulding, OH

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)

Stories from the community

J

Julia

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

The cabin was perfect and better than we remember when we stayed last year! Titus was kind enough to start the fire for us since we were arriving late. Very comfortable stay for us and our cats. You get an incredible view of the stars when it’s a clear night and the sound of the water trickling in the pond was soothing.

Maeve

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Titus is a very caring host. He is very prompt to communicate and he made sure I was doing ok during my stay (I was hot tent camping in snow). His thoughtfulness and creativity was everywhere in the campground - instructions were found right at the amenity I didn’t have to ask anything. I came on my own this time but I’d love to come back with kids next time. They would love the swing, the ship, fishing and animals.

M

Melinda

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

This was our 2nd time there! It is the perfect fall glamping spot! Super cozy and Titus thinks of everything! We will definitely be back again!

Rose

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

A lovely stay and a great host! Very accomodating.

D

Dora

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sheepy Acres

Titus was very friendly and responsive. He gave great directions to the property. The cabin was also very cosy and warm.

T

Theodore

November 2025

1 night at River Camp Fort Wayne

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

A

Anna

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Songdog Meadows

This place is amazing! I can’t recommend it more. Me and my pup had a great time here and we will definitely be back!

B

Bryan

November 2025

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.

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!

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

October 2025

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

October 2025

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

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.

P

Parrish

October 2025

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.

a

antonio

October 2025

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

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.