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The best river, stream, or creek camping near Gary

·

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Gary, Indiana with a focus on the river, we've got you covered. With over 312 options specifically tailored to your preference, you'll have no shortage of choices. Whether you're looking for a riverside campsite or a cozy cabin by the water, we have something for everyone. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, there's a camping experience to fit every budget. Check out our top campsites, Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), to see what fellow campers have to say. Popular amenities like showers, toilets, and potable water are available to make your stay comfortable, and you can enjoy activities such as exploring historic sites, horseback riding, and boating. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for a fantastic camping adventure near Gary, Indiana!

94% (206)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gary

  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%
(24)
3.5mi from Gary · 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
  • Close proximity to the road
  • The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
  • Close proximity to the road

2. The Once a Pond A Time Campsites

97%
(154)
46mi from Gary · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
My 4 and a half acres have a natural pond on it. I no longer own a personal flock of ducks but plenty of wild feathered friends come to drink and swim. I am three miles from Lake Michigan and my town has a public access beach. I am surrounded by wineries, breweries, and antique stores. I am in the country but only a few miles off the expressway. Berrien County's adorable small towns are known for their special events all year round. My sites are dispersed so first come first choice. Find a fixed Fire Ring and set up your camp! Or pick a spot without a ring - I do have portable free fire pits.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%
(57)
15mi from Gary · 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
  • Indiana Dunes National Park
  • Site #33
  • Indiana Dunes National Park

4. 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

5. 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
  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes

6. Creekside Dunes

17mi from Gary · 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
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping

7. Lazy Creek Camping

86%
(7)
42mi from Gary · 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
  • Right this way!
  • Harbor Country Cabins
  • Right this way!

8. Harbor Country Cabins

100%
(13)
42mi from Gary · 2 sites · Lodging
I become owner of this property in 2017. The cabins were built in the late 90's financed by the previous owner. The property was vacant for decades prior to that. In the 1950's, the property was a drive-in motel called the 'Harbert Motel'. We have an arial photo from this time period which showed a number of small bungalows for guests, each with its own carport. I love all the stories I hear from locals who have been around long enough to remember how things 'used to be'. Southwest Michigan has an interesting history and has been a 'destination' from city dwellers for close to 100 years. Even Al Capone and his goon's frequented the area as they moved illegal good during the days of prohibition. Learn more about this land: Breweries, Wineries, Berry Picking, Art Studios, Farmers Markets, hiking trails, biking trails, Lake Michigan boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing.......all those things and more await you in Southwest Michigan. We have 6 'tiny house' style cabins on 1-acre property we call - Harbor Country Cabins. Harbor Country Cabins is located along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Our resort offers a unique lodging and gathering location in the center of Harbor Country, near Southwest Michigan’s premier destination for beaches, breweries, wineries, dining and summer fun. With 12 queen bunk and 4 twin bunk beds spaced across 6 cabins, our property can hold up to 28 people. Price in this listing is for rental of all 6 cabins.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$855
 / night
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat

9. RC River Retreat

32mi from Gary · 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
  • Channahon State Park
  • Channahon State Park
  • Channahon State Park

10. Channahon State Park

25 sites · Channahon, Illinois
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

11. 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

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Gary, Indiana with a focus on the river, we've got you covered. With over 312 options specifically tailored to your preference, you'll have no shortage of choices. Whether you're looking for a riverside campsite or a cozy cabin by the water, we have something for everyone. And with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, there's a camping experience to fit every budget. Check out our top campsites, Walnut Valley Realm (230 reviews), Heritage Farm Stay Adventure (196 reviews), and East Woods on the IL River (135 reviews), to see what fellow campers have to say. Popular amenities like showers, toilets, and potable water are available to make your stay comfortable, and you can enjoy activities such as exploring historic sites, horseback riding, and boating. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for a fantastic camping adventure near Gary, Indiana!

94% (206)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gary

  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
  • Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

1. Rocking Horse Camping Ranch

96%
(24)
3.5mi from Gary · 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
  • Close proximity to the road
  • The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
  • Close proximity to the road

2. The Once a Pond A Time Campsites

97%
(154)
46mi from Gary · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
My 4 and a half acres have a natural pond on it. I no longer own a personal flock of ducks but plenty of wild feathered friends come to drink and swim. I am three miles from Lake Michigan and my town has a public access beach. I am surrounded by wineries, breweries, and antique stores. I am in the country but only a few miles off the expressway. Berrien County's adorable small towns are known for their special events all year round. My sites are dispersed so first come first choice. Find a fixed Fire Ring and set up your camp! Or pick a spot without a ring - I do have portable free fire pits.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
  • Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

3. Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest

93%
(57)
15mi from Gary · 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
  • Indiana Dunes National Park
  • Site #33
  • Indiana Dunes National Park

4. 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

5. 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
  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes

6. Creekside Dunes

17mi from Gary · 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
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping

7. Lazy Creek Camping

86%
(7)
42mi from Gary · 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
  • Right this way!
  • Harbor Country Cabins
  • Right this way!

8. Harbor Country Cabins

100%
(13)
42mi from Gary · 2 sites · Lodging
I become owner of this property in 2017. The cabins were built in the late 90's financed by the previous owner. The property was vacant for decades prior to that. In the 1950's, the property was a drive-in motel called the 'Harbert Motel'. We have an arial photo from this time period which showed a number of small bungalows for guests, each with its own carport. I love all the stories I hear from locals who have been around long enough to remember how things 'used to be'. Southwest Michigan has an interesting history and has been a 'destination' from city dwellers for close to 100 years. Even Al Capone and his goon's frequented the area as they moved illegal good during the days of prohibition. Learn more about this land: Breweries, Wineries, Berry Picking, Art Studios, Farmers Markets, hiking trails, biking trails, Lake Michigan boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing.......all those things and more await you in Southwest Michigan. We have 6 'tiny house' style cabins on 1-acre property we call - Harbor Country Cabins. Harbor Country Cabins is located along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Our resort offers a unique lodging and gathering location in the center of Harbor Country, near Southwest Michigan’s premier destination for beaches, breweries, wineries, dining and summer fun. With 12 queen bunk and 4 twin bunk beds spaced across 6 cabins, our property can hold up to 28 people. Price in this listing is for rental of all 6 cabins.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$855
 / night
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat

9. RC River Retreat

32mi from Gary · 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
  • Channahon State Park
  • Channahon State Park
  • Channahon State Park

10. Channahon State Park

25 sites · Channahon, Illinois
This little 20-acre riverfront park has BIG opportunities for nature fanatics
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area
  • Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

11. 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

Camper favorites near Gary

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes
  • Creekside Dunes

Creekside Dunes

17mi from Gary · 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
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping
  • Lazy Creek Camping

Lazy Creek Camping

86%
(7)
42mi from Gary · 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
  • Right this way!
  • Harbor Country Cabins
  • Right this way!

Harbor Country Cabins

100%
(13)
42mi from Gary · 2 sites · Lodging
I become owner of this property in 2017. The cabins were built in the late 90's financed by the previous owner. The property was vacant for decades prior to that. In the 1950's, the property was a drive-in motel called the 'Harbert Motel'. We have an arial photo from this time period which showed a number of small bungalows for guests, each with its own carport. I love all the stories I hear from locals who have been around long enough to remember how things 'used to be'. Southwest Michigan has an interesting history and has been a 'destination' from city dwellers for close to 100 years. Even Al Capone and his goon's frequented the area as they moved illegal good during the days of prohibition. Learn more about this land: Breweries, Wineries, Berry Picking, Art Studios, Farmers Markets, hiking trails, biking trails, Lake Michigan boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing.......all those things and more await you in Southwest Michigan. We have 6 'tiny house' style cabins on 1-acre property we call - Harbor Country Cabins. Harbor Country Cabins is located along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail. Our resort offers a unique lodging and gathering location in the center of Harbor Country, near Southwest Michigan’s premier destination for beaches, breweries, wineries, dining and summer fun. With 12 queen bunk and 4 twin bunk beds spaced across 6 cabins, our property can hold up to 28 people. Price in this listing is for rental of all 6 cabins.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$855
 / night
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat
  • RC River Retreat

RC River Retreat

32mi from Gary · 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

Public campgrounds near Gary

Dunewood Campground
95%
(41)

Dunewood Campground

19mi from Gary · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Indiana Dunes National Park
Potawatomi Campground
100%
(1)

Potawatomi Campground

43mi from Gary · 105 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park
A shallow part of rock creek, near the campground.
100%
(1)

Chippewa Campground

43mi from Gary · 94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kankakee River State Park
Equestrian Campground

Equestrian Campground

43mi from Gary · 8 sites · in Kankakee River State Park
Channahon Campground

Channahon Campground

47mi from Gary · 25 sites · in Channahon State Park
Des Plaines Campground

Des Plaines Campground

48mi from Gary · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Des Plaines State Fish & Wildlife Area

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
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.
See more
Hruby Ranch Woods Camp -Eagles Nest
Avatar
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.
See more
The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
G
Guadalupe
September 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
I loved the area and Cherisse's land was so nice and peaceful. I will definitely be recommending it for my travel trailer rental BC TRAVENTURE CO on Outdoorsy. The place is 4 min from the Warren Dunes and Molly's beach walk cafe was a cute small brunch spot. Rising Kites coffee spot on oak was also great. A ton of wine spots to try. The actual campsite was easy and very peaceful. They have wildlife we had an owl hangout at night. Overall great spot. If you want easy, laid back, low tech spot. We went to unplug for a weekend it was perfect.
See more
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
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.
See more
The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
A
Ana
September 2025
Tent
With kids
1 night at The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
The land was incredibly clean and felt very welcoming. The location was perfect, only a five-minute drive from the beach, which made our day so easy. We also loved the friendly community atmosphere; we even got to fish with other kids staying, which was a highlight! Cherisse's property is truly fantastic for families. The wide-open space was perfect for the kids to run around and play football without bothering anyone. The real gem, though, was the catch-and-release pond. My four-year-old son, after trying all summer, finally caught his first fish here, it was such a special moment! We also really enjoyed the fire pit for making s'mores in the evening. We're already looking forward to our next stay!
See more
The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Avatar
Lauren
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Great location in proximity to Warren Dunes and the surrounding area. We camped here last minute on a holiday weekend and it worked out great. It is a field adjacent to the host’s home. Each site has a fire ring but no tables. We were able to use our cooler as one but would recommend bringing one if you plan on doing any meals/ cooking. Not very private when multiple groups are there, however in a pinch it was perfect. We enjoyed the star gazing and appreciated the clean bathroom. Great home base for exploring the area!
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
Avatar
Daniella
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Beautiful spot super close to the Dunes! Clean toilets and spacious campsites!
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
Avatar
Jayne
August 2025
24 ft Class C
1 night at The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Weren’t able to make it, but the host was amazing and understood!!
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
F
Fiona
August 2025
29 ft Class C
Group trip
1 night at The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Lovely grass site with fire pits around a lake. We had an RV so manoeuvred into a relatively level area. There are no predetermined sites you just pitch where you want to. We were the only campers on both occasions with only the sound of nature around us. We heard the train and sone vehicles on the road but they were minor background noise. Thoroughly recommend visiting this site, very peaceful and Cherisse is a lovely lady
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
C
Chris
August 2025
29 ft Class C
Group trip
1 night at The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Lovely peaceful site clean and tidy and the host Cherisse was lovely as well
See more
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Avatar
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 more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
L
Levi
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Very nice campsite next to a small pond. Ground was flat and mowed short. No electricity or water. Porta potty on site. Some outdoor games available for the kids. Nice spot to spend the night.
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
K
Kate
August 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
We loved our time camping here! It was such a nice spot and very clean.
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
D
Dylan
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
The campsite itself was beautiful — peaceful, well-maintained, and surrounded by plenty of trees. We had a group of 10 with plenty of room still amongst other campers who were also there. You could tell Cherisse takes good care of the location! awesome place 10/10
See more
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
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.
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
T
Tara
July 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
I liked it there. You will like it there. Bullfrogs can be quite loud so if you're a light sleeper choose a site behind the barn maybe.
See more
Rocking Horse Camping Ranch
Avatar
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.
See more
View of the main entrance, right off the road
J
Jack
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Very nice area. Calm and spaced out, and the weather was great!
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View of the main entrance, right off the road
R
Riley
July 2025
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
2 nights at The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
Great spot, we were the only group their the first night and then the second only one other group. Very quiet and lots of frogs croaking in the pond!
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View of the main entrance, right off the road
E
Emily
July 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to The Once a Pond A Time Campsites
This was my second year camping at Cherisse’s site. She is a warm, hospital host and made my kiddo feel right at home. Lovely spot, nice set up. Highly recommend.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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