The best camping near Mishawaka with horseback riding

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A charming city set in northern Indiana on the St. Joseph River, Mishawaka is known as the  “Peppermint Capital of the World” due to the area’s large quantities of mint. There are also 29 parks, golf courses, and an olympic-size public swimming pool for campers to enjoy. Road trip to Chicago—just under two hours away—to indulge in delicious pizza, or hitch up the speed boat and roll the RV into a full-service, pet-friendly, waterfront campground in Harrison Lake State Park. Tent camping near Potato Creek State Park offers local swimming and water activities in Worster Lake.

99% (475) 16 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mishawaka

The Riding Stable and Resort

1. The Riding Stable and Resort

97%
(141)
12mi from Mishawaka · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
When we bought this property in 2013, it was a little run down. Many years ago, it housed sheep and cows. We revamped our little 15-acre farm and continue to improve its looks. Now it is our home and houses my riding stable. Many people have commented on how nice it is. I thought this would be a great opportunity to share its beauty and the animals with others. Learn more about this land: We have 3 spots to pitch a tent, but we're pretty flexible. If you see another area, please ask!. Site "Woods" is most secluded. We now have a cabin!! Our "Chalet". It will sleep 4 and has some great amenities. The others are around our grassy barnyard area where you're able to enjoy all of our different animals!. All sites are 2-5 mins from the main house. You will be staying on our horse farm. We have many chickens, bunnies, a potbelly pig, feeder pigs (depending on the time of year), and our 4 house dogs. We offer overnight equine amenities as well. There are 2 showering options and restroom available. You can enjoy a small fire (weather dependent) or listen to the crickets and frogs under the starry night. Actually, you can do it all. We offer trail rides on the horses as well, (extra charges). You can even book a trip to the state park to ride the horse trails, which is only 15 minutes away. There is a great fishing lake less than 1 mile from the farm, so bring your poles and kayaks. Or rent ours! There is a Dollar General, 2 gas stations, and a liquor store in our tiny little town if you forget anything. Walmart is 12 minutes North of us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Gage Street Sanctuary

2. Gage Street Sanctuary

100%
(51)
25mi from Mishawaka · 1 site · Tent, RV
20 acres of beauty! Nestled in the middle of the 20 acres is a great clearing for a camp site or RV. Fire pit and starter wood provided. We have a Porto Jon on site that is cleaned weekly, outside shower, washing station, and electrical hook up. Newly added Gazebo to get out of the rain! Explore all of our trails and enjoy your camping experience without anyone around you. The millions of stars are amazing. Plenty of wildlife to observe. The nearby Dowagiac creek offers rental of kayaks to travel down the creek on a hot day (10 mins away). The local town of Dowagiac also offers many great restaurants and activities during the summer. Come enjoy the fresh air and leave the wifi behind! Welcome packet sent upon booking.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$76
 / night
Restful Camping Retreat

3. Restful Camping Retreat

99%
(62)
30mi from Mishawaka · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread Campground. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of seating areas to rest and relax. We are an alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and we're also a smoke and alcohol free campus. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you! Our goal to provide a peaceful, quiet ambiance for all our guests and so we don’t allow loud music and we require adherence of our quiet hours from 10pm to 10 am. If you’re using a generator, please run it during the day until 10pm, so that it’s not running all through the night.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Potato Creek State Park

4. Potato Creek State Park

100%
(3)
State park 14mi from Mishawaka · 365 sites
Discover the natural beauty of Potato Creek State Park and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Indiana Dunes National Park

5. Indiana Dunes National Park

95%
(41)
National park 46mi from Mishawaka · 66 sites
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lochloosa River Retreat

6. Lochloosa River Retreat

98%
(138)
39mi from Mishawaka · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lochloosa River Retreat – Family Fun, River Adventures and Relaxing Stays on the Tippecanoe! Welcome to Lochloosa River Retreat—your home away from home along the beautiful Tippecanoe River! Nestled on 6 peaceful acres, our hobby farm offers primitive tent camping, dry RV sites, a River View RV lodging site (RV included) and a cozy cabin stay in the Zen Shed—perfect for families, paddlers, and nature lovers looking to unwind. At full capacity, we can host up to 60 people and also offer group hosting. Paddle, float, and explore! We offer kayak and tubing trips on a scenic stretch of the river—message us to get on the float schedule. Guest enjoy playing in the shallow creek that winds through the property, as well as relaxing at camp, listening to the sounds of running water and a fire, or playing and cooling off in our saltwater pool complete with a slide and diving board. Wildlife is abundant, so bring your binoculars for birdwatching or cast a line from the riverbank. Want more comfort? Book a stay in the Zen Shed, our rustic riverside cabin or the River View RV for the ultimate glamping comfort—both perfect for a peaceful, unplugged getaway with real beds and front-row views of nature. Located near Lake Maxinkuckee and the charming town of Culver, there’s plenty to explore just a short drive away. There are also a few nature preserves nearby as well as a new Bark Park! A nearby country store (2 miles) offers pizza, chicken, ice, and other essentials. 🚿 Clean indoor bathrooms and showers 🏕️ Tent, RV sites, cabin lodging (Zen Shed) or RV lodging (River view RV) 🛶 Family-friendly tubing and kayak trips 🐾 Pet-friendly (north of the creek only) 🔥 Campfires, sunsets and stargazing galore Please review site details before booking. Pets are welcome only at campsites north of the creek, as our farm animals live on the south side. Please make sure to enter pets at booking to make sure your preferred site is pet friendly. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. We can’t wait to welcome you to Lochloosa—where adventure meets relaxation and memories are made by the river!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$48
 / night
Whole Life Farm rv/tenting w/w+e

7. Whole Life Farm rv/tenting w/w+e

95%
(10)
40mi from Mishawaka · 1 site · Tent, RV
33 acre farm nearby river for kayaking(we have 2 kayaks) beaches nearby wine trails large private nature plot of land with water/electric running from house authentic bus with garden can provide breakfast/lunch/dinner for an extra small fee can provide blankets/pillows for an extra small fee
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

8. Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

98%
(30)
40mi from Mishawaka · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This stylish home and property sets the stage for a one of a kind stay. The unique setting is quiet and comfortable, makes you believe that you are hours away from civilization but you're only a short drive from the city and in close proximity of US 131, Interstate 94, M60 and M66. Fishing and kayaking year round, unique decks and gardens overlooking a private eight acre pond encompass this back to nature lifestyle. We're located right on the Portage River that feeds into what locals call The Mighty St. Joe. Maybe you'd like to take a rural walk or run, listen to the frogs and the birds ~ yet minutes away from Portage or Kalamazoo and a short drive from major highways. A 20 minute nature walk around Pondor Lake will surly calm your soul and heart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We can accommodate larger groups! Just let us know what you need and how we can make your stay memorable. Do you have a boat? No problem ~ public accesses to neighboring Portage and Fishers Lake, along with the St. Joseph River, are literally minutes away. Staying at Pondor Lake will be memorable and relaxing. Pondor Lake ~ a private place to ponder.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night
Harvest the Good Farm

9. Harvest the Good Farm

100%
(137)
42mi from Mishawaka · 1 site
My family and I have lived here for 25 years. I grow hay and have a small orchard. At one point we were USDA certified organic and probably still meet the criteria. We like the country life and room for the animals to wander. Learn more about this land: Private, Quiet, Open Vistas. Site is out back on our property and sits between a rolling, lush hayfield and 4 acres of native wildflowers. Dark night skies for stargazing. No visible neighbors.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Tippecanoe River State Park

10. Tippecanoe River State Park

67%
(4)
State park 45mi from Mishawaka · 182 sites
Discover Tippecanoe River State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park

11. Chain O'Lakes State Park

100%
(7)
State park 47mi from Mishawaka · 432 sites
Discover Chain O'Lakes State Park: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Fallen Tree Campground

12. Fallen Tree Campground

99%
(75)
45mi from Mishawaka · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$57
 / night
Glamping in a Tiny Cabin on a Farm

13. Glamping in a Tiny Cabin on a Farm

100%
(3)
21mi from Mishawaka · 1 site
Experience a serene and relaxing getaway in our off-grid tiny cabin on our farm. Created with the intention of slowing down (no tv, no wifi and no refrigerator), enjoy wandering the fields relaxing in one of the hammocks, cooking on the outdoor fire pit, sipping coffee on the front deck and generally taking a break from modern life. If you'd like to explore the area, we are nearby popular trails and bike routes, U-pick farms, breweries & restaurants and beaches along Lake Michigan. **From November -March the outdoor shower is weather dependent.** ******The term "glamping" means "glamorous camping" with an emphasis on camping. The tiny home and bathroom provide a comfortable and modern experience while still allowing the feel of rustic and outdoorsy traditional camping. All of your cooking will be done outside with our propane cooktop, grill or fire pit. There is a wash station on the back deck for washing dishes. ******* The tiny home was crafted to blend in with the scenery and to impact the surrounding trees and fields as little as possible. The loft includes a cozy queen bed with plush pillows and linens and the living space has a pull out sleeper sofa with a memory foam mattress. Relax indoors while taking in the view from the couch or enjoy a glass of wine on the front porch or one of the hammocks. Just steps away, the tiny home has a separate private bathroom with heated outdoor shower. We have three potbelly pigs that enjoy company as well as chickens and a turkey. Deer frequent through the campsite and surrounding area as well. This is an operating farm so the owners and employees are in the fields tending to the plants, washing, and packing produce throughout the week. You may hear people talking or the occasional tractor in a nearby field. The farm is certified naturally grown and works with the USDA on land management.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$111
 / night

A charming city set in northern Indiana on the St. Joseph River, Mishawaka is known as the  “Peppermint Capital of the World” due to the area’s large quantities of mint. There are also 29 parks, golf courses, and an olympic-size public swimming pool for campers to enjoy. Road trip to Chicago—just under two hours away—to indulge in delicious pizza, or hitch up the speed boat and roll the RV into a full-service, pet-friendly, waterfront campground in Harrison Lake State Park. Tent camping near Potato Creek State Park offers local swimming and water activities in Worster Lake.

99% (475) 16 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mishawaka

The Riding Stable and Resort

1. The Riding Stable and Resort

97%
(141)
12mi from Mishawaka · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
When we bought this property in 2013, it was a little run down. Many years ago, it housed sheep and cows. We revamped our little 15-acre farm and continue to improve its looks. Now it is our home and houses my riding stable. Many people have commented on how nice it is. I thought this would be a great opportunity to share its beauty and the animals with others. Learn more about this land: We have 3 spots to pitch a tent, but we're pretty flexible. If you see another area, please ask!. Site "Woods" is most secluded. We now have a cabin!! Our "Chalet". It will sleep 4 and has some great amenities. The others are around our grassy barnyard area where you're able to enjoy all of our different animals!. All sites are 2-5 mins from the main house. You will be staying on our horse farm. We have many chickens, bunnies, a potbelly pig, feeder pigs (depending on the time of year), and our 4 house dogs. We offer overnight equine amenities as well. There are 2 showering options and restroom available. You can enjoy a small fire (weather dependent) or listen to the crickets and frogs under the starry night. Actually, you can do it all. We offer trail rides on the horses as well, (extra charges). You can even book a trip to the state park to ride the horse trails, which is only 15 minutes away. There is a great fishing lake less than 1 mile from the farm, so bring your poles and kayaks. Or rent ours! There is a Dollar General, 2 gas stations, and a liquor store in our tiny little town if you forget anything. Walmart is 12 minutes North of us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Gage Street Sanctuary

2. Gage Street Sanctuary

100%
(51)
25mi from Mishawaka · 1 site · Tent, RV
20 acres of beauty! Nestled in the middle of the 20 acres is a great clearing for a camp site or RV. Fire pit and starter wood provided. We have a Porto Jon on site that is cleaned weekly, outside shower, washing station, and electrical hook up. Newly added Gazebo to get out of the rain! Explore all of our trails and enjoy your camping experience without anyone around you. The millions of stars are amazing. Plenty of wildlife to observe. The nearby Dowagiac creek offers rental of kayaks to travel down the creek on a hot day (10 mins away). The local town of Dowagiac also offers many great restaurants and activities during the summer. Come enjoy the fresh air and leave the wifi behind! Welcome packet sent upon booking.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$76
 / night
Restful Camping Retreat

3. Restful Camping Retreat

99%
(62)
30mi from Mishawaka · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Do you need to recharge from the busyness of life? Nature’s beauty and simplicity awaits you at Our Daily Bread Campground. Cradled on almost 200 acres of rolling hills, farmland, quiet valleys, picturesque woodlands the scenes of nature will ennoble the senses. The shimmering waters of Miller lake adorn the property’s southern border. Deer, wild turkey, swans, sandhill cranes, beaver, and occasional fox are but few of the residents who live here. Come and enjoy the peace and serenity, rest and relaxation of Our Daily Bread. We offer a place for families and individuals to come and feel safe and enjoy some quiet time... away from the hustle and bustle of life. We have lots of trails for hiking, a playground for kids, and lots of seating areas to rest and relax. We are an alcohol and smoke free campus, and don't allow foul language, parties or any disturbances to other guests.... as we value the satisfaction and peaceful experience here for all our guests. We do not allow pets for our cabin guests, and we're also a smoke and alcohol free campus. We have boats for rent (kayaks, canoes, row boats, paddle boats). This is not for everyone, but if you want to come and commune with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet, then this is the spot for you! Our goal to provide a peaceful, quiet ambiance for all our guests and so we don’t allow loud music and we require adherence of our quiet hours from 10pm to 10 am. If you’re using a generator, please run it during the day until 10pm, so that it’s not running all through the night.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Potato Creek State Park

4. Potato Creek State Park

100%
(3)
State park 14mi from Mishawaka · 365 sites
Discover the natural beauty of Potato Creek State Park and its myriad of outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Indiana Dunes National Park

5. Indiana Dunes National Park

95%
(41)
National park 46mi from Mishawaka · 66 sites
Marvel at Lake Michigan from a perch on a towering sand dune.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lochloosa River Retreat

6. Lochloosa River Retreat

98%
(138)
39mi from Mishawaka · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lochloosa River Retreat – Family Fun, River Adventures and Relaxing Stays on the Tippecanoe! Welcome to Lochloosa River Retreat—your home away from home along the beautiful Tippecanoe River! Nestled on 6 peaceful acres, our hobby farm offers primitive tent camping, dry RV sites, a River View RV lodging site (RV included) and a cozy cabin stay in the Zen Shed—perfect for families, paddlers, and nature lovers looking to unwind. At full capacity, we can host up to 60 people and also offer group hosting. Paddle, float, and explore! We offer kayak and tubing trips on a scenic stretch of the river—message us to get on the float schedule. Guest enjoy playing in the shallow creek that winds through the property, as well as relaxing at camp, listening to the sounds of running water and a fire, or playing and cooling off in our saltwater pool complete with a slide and diving board. Wildlife is abundant, so bring your binoculars for birdwatching or cast a line from the riverbank. Want more comfort? Book a stay in the Zen Shed, our rustic riverside cabin or the River View RV for the ultimate glamping comfort—both perfect for a peaceful, unplugged getaway with real beds and front-row views of nature. Located near Lake Maxinkuckee and the charming town of Culver, there’s plenty to explore just a short drive away. There are also a few nature preserves nearby as well as a new Bark Park! A nearby country store (2 miles) offers pizza, chicken, ice, and other essentials. 🚿 Clean indoor bathrooms and showers 🏕️ Tent, RV sites, cabin lodging (Zen Shed) or RV lodging (River view RV) 🛶 Family-friendly tubing and kayak trips 🐾 Pet-friendly (north of the creek only) 🔥 Campfires, sunsets and stargazing galore Please review site details before booking. Pets are welcome only at campsites north of the creek, as our farm animals live on the south side. Please make sure to enter pets at booking to make sure your preferred site is pet friendly. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. We can’t wait to welcome you to Lochloosa—where adventure meets relaxation and memories are made by the river!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$48
 / night
Whole Life Farm rv/tenting w/w+e

7. Whole Life Farm rv/tenting w/w+e

95%
(10)
40mi from Mishawaka · 1 site · Tent, RV
33 acre farm nearby river for kayaking(we have 2 kayaks) beaches nearby wine trails large private nature plot of land with water/electric running from house authentic bus with garden can provide breakfast/lunch/dinner for an extra small fee can provide blankets/pillows for an extra small fee
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

8. Pondor Lake Southwest Michigan

98%
(30)
40mi from Mishawaka · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This stylish home and property sets the stage for a one of a kind stay. The unique setting is quiet and comfortable, makes you believe that you are hours away from civilization but you're only a short drive from the city and in close proximity of US 131, Interstate 94, M60 and M66. Fishing and kayaking year round, unique decks and gardens overlooking a private eight acre pond encompass this back to nature lifestyle. We're located right on the Portage River that feeds into what locals call The Mighty St. Joe. Maybe you'd like to take a rural walk or run, listen to the frogs and the birds ~ yet minutes away from Portage or Kalamazoo and a short drive from major highways. A 20 minute nature walk around Pondor Lake will surly calm your soul and heart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We can accommodate larger groups! Just let us know what you need and how we can make your stay memorable. Do you have a boat? No problem ~ public accesses to neighboring Portage and Fishers Lake, along with the St. Joseph River, are literally minutes away. Staying at Pondor Lake will be memorable and relaxing. Pondor Lake ~ a private place to ponder.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night
Harvest the Good Farm

9. Harvest the Good Farm

100%
(137)
42mi from Mishawaka · 1 site
My family and I have lived here for 25 years. I grow hay and have a small orchard. At one point we were USDA certified organic and probably still meet the criteria. We like the country life and room for the animals to wander. Learn more about this land: Private, Quiet, Open Vistas. Site is out back on our property and sits between a rolling, lush hayfield and 4 acres of native wildflowers. Dark night skies for stargazing. No visible neighbors.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Tippecanoe River State Park

10. Tippecanoe River State Park

67%
(4)
State park 45mi from Mishawaka · 182 sites
Discover Tippecanoe River State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chain O'Lakes State Park

11. Chain O'Lakes State Park

100%
(7)
State park 47mi from Mishawaka · 432 sites
Discover Chain O'Lakes State Park: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Fallen Tree Campground

12. Fallen Tree Campground

99%
(75)
45mi from Mishawaka · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$57
 / night
Glamping in a Tiny Cabin on a Farm

13. Glamping in a Tiny Cabin on a Farm

100%
(3)
21mi from Mishawaka · 1 site
Experience a serene and relaxing getaway in our off-grid tiny cabin on our farm. Created with the intention of slowing down (no tv, no wifi and no refrigerator), enjoy wandering the fields relaxing in one of the hammocks, cooking on the outdoor fire pit, sipping coffee on the front deck and generally taking a break from modern life. If you'd like to explore the area, we are nearby popular trails and bike routes, U-pick farms, breweries & restaurants and beaches along Lake Michigan. **From November -March the outdoor shower is weather dependent.** ******The term "glamping" means "glamorous camping" with an emphasis on camping. The tiny home and bathroom provide a comfortable and modern experience while still allowing the feel of rustic and outdoorsy traditional camping. All of your cooking will be done outside with our propane cooktop, grill or fire pit. There is a wash station on the back deck for washing dishes. ******* The tiny home was crafted to blend in with the scenery and to impact the surrounding trees and fields as little as possible. The loft includes a cozy queen bed with plush pillows and linens and the living space has a pull out sleeper sofa with a memory foam mattress. Relax indoors while taking in the view from the couch or enjoy a glass of wine on the front porch or one of the hammocks. Just steps away, the tiny home has a separate private bathroom with heated outdoor shower. We have three potbelly pigs that enjoy company as well as chickens and a turkey. Deer frequent through the campsite and surrounding area as well. This is an operating farm so the owners and employees are in the fields tending to the plants, washing, and packing produce throughout the week. You may hear people talking or the occasional tractor in a nearby field. The farm is certified naturally grown and works with the USDA on land management.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$111
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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The best camping near Mishawaka with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Chicago Surrounds

Head two hours west of Mishawaka to Chicago for a traditional slice of deep-dish pizza, renowned architecture, and a legendary jazz scene. Rent a kayak and explore the Chicago River, or explore 26 miles of lakefront with dozens of sandy beach spots surrounding Lake Michigan. Nearby are plenty of full-service RV campgrounds featuring shower facilities and flush toilets.

Harrison Lake State Park

Hunt waterfowl, take a swim, or catch fresh fish for dinner at Harrison Lake State Park. Just over the state border in Ohio, Harrison Lake State Park is roughly two hours east of Mishawaka. Scoop up a lakefront cabin for easy access to waterfront activities including the 150-foot beach. A launch ramp is available for motorized boats, or rent a pedal boat, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or power boat instead. Book reservations online up to six months in advance to get a pet-friendly campsite that offers electricity. Winter camping is also available and is great for sledding at the east end of the lake, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.

Potato Creek State Park

With a 327-acre lake surrounded by forests and wetland areas, Potato Creek State Park delivers plenty of outdoor activities. Stop by the Nature Center to learn about the area before biking the paved 3.2-mile trail. Cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and ice fishing are popular in winter, while fishing on one of the three piers on Worster Lake is a huge draw in summer. Rent a cabin nearby or pitch a tent in an off-grid campsite to get first dibs on canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals.

When to go

Mishawaka offers four distinct seasons and outdoor activities that are popular year-round. Freezing temperatures in December, January, and February create great conditions for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. June, July, and August see the highest temperatures of the year—around 77°F—for water activities and hiking. The off-seasons run from March until May and from September until late November, with smaller crowds and cooler weather.