Lake Camping Near Peru, Indiana, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for a camping experience near Peru, Indiana, with a preference for lakes, you're in luck. With over 120 options available, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect campsite that suits your needs. Whether you're interested in lakeside views, serene wildlife watching, thrilling biking trails, or peaceful paddling excursions, our campsites near Peru, Indiana have it all. Some of our top-rated campsites include Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Sherfick Farms (39 reviews), and Mirror Lake Private Property (37 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and pet-friendly spaces, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Prices start as low as $15 per night, with an average price of $45 per night. So, pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure near Peru, Indiana!

98% (378)

Top-rated campgrounds near Peru

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for a camping experience near Peru, Indiana, with a preference for lakes, you're in luck. With over 120 options available, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect campsite that suits your needs. Whether you're interested in lakeside views, serene wildlife watching, thrilling biking trails, or peaceful paddling excursions, our campsites near Peru, Indiana have it all. Some of our top-rated campsites include Mulln-Heim Vineyards (342 reviews), Sherfick Farms (39 reviews), and Mirror Lake Private Property (37 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and pet-friendly spaces, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Prices start as low as $15 per night, with an average price of $45 per night. So, pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure near Peru, Indiana!

98% (378)

Top-rated campgrounds near Peru

1. Sherfick Farms

95%

(155)

48mi from Peru · 66 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Sherfick Farms has a 3.5acre lake and surrounded by Farm fields. Far enough from the city you can see the stars, but close enough for any of your last minute needs. Enjoy the open field and star lit skies.

2. Camp Ames

100%

(69)

3.8mi from Peru · 4 sites · RVs

We established this homestead in 1981. The original 10 acres grew to 15 after acquiring our neighbors smaller lots. With one of those properties we used the well and septic and built camp sites to entertain our friends and family. We have opened this up to some outside travelers to attract interest in our local community. Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and Class C RVs allowed. All campers must be self contained with your own Learn more about this land: Camp Ames is located on the scenic Mississinewa River 3.5 miles outside of Peru, Indiana. We have full service camp sites. The camp shack is appointed with a picnic table and TV to catch up on the latest news. Bald eagles are a huge attraction in this area. Acres Trust Nature Preserve is a short walk away. We have our own 4 acre wildflower meadow that attracts many butterflies and birds during the summer months. It's just a peaceful, quiet place to visit. Cell phone service is not great here but not totally absent if you stand in the right place. Wi-Fi is available. This is our private camp ground and not a for public use unless arrangements are made with us. We will assign your site before your arrival. A vacancy on this site does not mean we have availability as our friends and family may be visiting. When requesting a site please include a description of your camper, the number of people and how many amps your camper requires. This help us place you on a site if one is available. Suggested Local Attractions:The World's Greatest Amateur Circus: Peru, Indiana, is also known as the "Circus City". In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Peru was home to the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and others. Even the Ringling Brothers Circus wintered there for a while. For 10 days each July, Peru celebrates the Circus City Festival with rides, crafts, food, games, and more. The highlight, however, is the live amateur circus that has performances throughout the festival. A unique and authentic experience that echoes the early heyday of the circus, this is a fun event not to be missed. Performers are locals, some of whom are direct descendants of professional performers in the earlier shows. Even if a visit is timed to occur outside of July, a visit to the small but impressive International Circus Hall of Fame might be worth the trip. Circus Hall of Fame is located 1.8 miles from Camp Ames. Grissom Air Museum: Located 7.6 miles from Camp Ames There are some great interactive displays inside the museum for the kids to sit inside the cockpits of mock ups for pictures and the planes throughout the grounds are well maintained and offer interesting facts. Great Air Museum Celebrating the Aviation History of Grissom Air Force Base. Miami County Museum: Located 3.6 miles from Camp Ames Cole Porter's custom 1955 Cadillac, circus carvings, a stagecoach, the World's Tallest Man's overalls, a fantastic collection of rifles, Clyde Beatty's lion tamer's outfit, lots of farm and pioneer items, Miami Indian relics. Mississinewa Resevoir: Located 3 miles from Camp Ames Mississinewa Lake is a seasonal resevoir designed for flood control. That said, depending on rainfall during the summer, many recreational activities are available. Swimming at the beach, boating, and fishing. A nice campground and hiking are also on site. Nickel Plate Trail: Located 2.9 miles from Camp Ames This asphalt trail is one of the best in the State to ride or walk on!!! It keeps getting better because the trail keeps getting extended with more pathway added. The volunteers do a superb job up keeping this 50 mile path. Make this a to do for a beautiful Fall ride once the leaves begin to change. You'll be immersed in intense colors and wonderful woodsy sights and smells. Seven Pillars: Located 0.8 miles from Camp Ames This breathtaking formation along the Mississinewa River was created over the centuries as wind and water eroded the limestone, carving rounded buttresses and alcoves into the north bluff of the river. Seven Pillars Nature Preserve - Acres Land Trust - Located 0.3 miles from Camp Ames! This preserve on the south side of the Mississinewa River is named after the landmark 25-foot limestone pillars, also owned by ACRES, which are located on the north side of the river. On top of the bluff grow red cedar, Juneberry and shadbush. In the preserve are beech, maple and other trees, as well as open meadow. The Miami Nation continues to gather at the pillars. The preserve is 148 acres of woods open to the public to walk the woods. There is 1.8 miles of trail. PRESERVE RULES: As a preserve visitor, you are responsible for keeping these habitats undisturbed. Follow these rules to allow the preserve’s plants, wildlife and natural formations to thrive here, in place, for generations: Open Dawn til Dusk, Foot Traffic Only, Dogs Allowed, Always On Leash,Take Nothing, Leave Nothing, Stay On The Trails McClure’s Orchard/Winery: Located 9.8 miles from Camp Ames A small, family-owned and operated apple farm nestled in the rolling hills of northern Indiana, located an hour from Indianapolis. Currently growing 125 varieties of apples, which throughout the season are available for u-pick or already picked. Beginning Labor Day Weekend, ride the tractor and trolley through the Orchard, for tours and apple picking. Toward the end of September through October, the trolley will stop in the pumpkin patch for u-pick. There is no parking or admission fee, and no charge for the ride through the Orchard. More than apples and pumpkins, there’s a playground area and petting zoo for the kids (and the kiddos at heart). During September and October, saddle up a horse, and take a horse ride on the weekends for $1. On most weekends, there’s live music; so, be sure to check the website to see who is playing and which day. McClure’s has a café serving delicious food, made fresh daily. The apple dumplings are amazing! The adults in the group can also sample or enjoy a glass of McClure’s award-winning wine and hard cider. In 2019 a down town location was opened on the Wabash River featuring Wine Tasting just 3.4 miles from Camp Ames. Preslie Meadow: Located at Camp Ames Preslie Meadow is a acre wildflower habitat. Established in 2018. Paths are provided to walk and enjoy the beauty. An array of wildflowers can be seen at different times in the spring and summer months. Birds, butterflies, bunnies and deer benefit from the meadow. Photographers and admirers walk the paths and drive by all season. Visitors are welcome and ask not to pick the flowers. Named after the daughter of JR and Marla Dennis of Kokomo. Preslie Lynn Dennis passed from injuries sustained in a car accident on June 22, 2018. She was just short of her 18th birthday and ready to leave for boot camp to serve our country in the United States Army having already served in the National Guard. This multi-talented young lady left us all heart broken. Preslie Meadow lets her memory and beauty live on.

3. Lochloosa River Retreat

98%

(138)

31mi from Peru · 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!

4. Mississinewa Lake

404 sites · Amboy, Indiana

Discover Mississinewa Lake's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Salamonie Lake

333 sites · Mount Etna, Indiana

Salamonie Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers Alike.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Lakeshore Retreat

47mi from Peru · 1 site · RV

Come find your home away from home at our peaceful lakeside campsite! Nestled on the shores of a beautiful all-sport lake, our campsite offers the perfect escape. Wake up to stunning water views and spend your days casting a line for the abundant walleye and bluegill. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, this is a fisherman’s paradise. Beyond the water, you’ll discover a world of local charm. We’re just a short 15-minute drive from Rentown, a small Amish community where you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal and browse unique stores. If you’re visiting in late summer, you’re in luck — we’re only 15 minutes from the excitement of the annual Blueberry Festival in Plymouth, IN, held over Labor Day weekend. And for all the Fighting Irish fans, our location is a game-day dream. You’re just a quick 40-minute drive from Notre Dame Stadium, so you can easily catch the action. Book your spot today and get ready for a memorable camping trip filled with relaxation, adventure, and the best of Indiana’s local culture!

7. Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

97%

(85)

38mi from Peru · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Farmsite along Tippecanoe River. 15 minutes to Indiana Beach, canoeing, state park, golf, 5 towns, fishing, YMCA Camp Tecumseh and much more. You will not believe it until you see it. Fishing in the river requires a license. We know you will enjoy your stay and create memories forever.

8. Blue Water Lake

94%

(58)

44mi from Peru · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

9. StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

100%

(5)

23mi from Peru · 12 sites · Tents

Moved to Indiana from San Antonio Texas, This land has been occupied by my family for over 32 yrs. It's situated out in the country on 3 county line roads, access to StarCountryAcres by State Road 15 and State Road 9 3 country line roads,Grant,Wabash, Huntington Turn on 700 N 1200 S We have built this up to become a Wildlife Habitat Certified by the National Wildlife Federation. Learn more about this land: Bring your own tent (This is a tent only campground and Primitive) and enjoy the 5 acres of land that is Certified by the National Wildlife Federation. There are two Nearby Lakes, there is the Mississinewa Reservoir and the Salamone Reservoir, there are beaches to lay at and swimming allowed, both of these places are not far from StarCountryAcres Wildlife Habitat. Less than 25 miles. Bring a GPS to find these two lakes. If you love watching birds then this is the place to see them, bring your binoculars,scopes and camera's. In the summer you can enjoy the two big Montmorency Cherry Trees, pick and eat all you want.The cherries are all gone but its Blackberry time pick all you want Free.. There are also Raspberry Blackberry Bushes you can pick in mid July. Blackberry Season is over Campers can enjoy the Apple Trees and the Grapes when in season. Apple & Grape season is over Pear season is here, Pick all you want FREE. The pears are ready to eat as they are dropping to the ground What more can a camper want than Fresh berries to pick with your pancakes in the morning! Summer/Fall time only. There is now a 24x8 Screen house, it has a table and chairs and also a bench, on the other end of the screenhouse there is a POTTY. The screen house is for campers who want to eat and not have to worry about bugs buzzing around their food. We have tables and chairs in the screen house. WE ARE OPEN FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND.

10. Salamonie River State Forest

36 sites · Mount Etna, Indiana

Discover the natural beauty of Salamonie River State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Camper favorites near Peru

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lakeshore Retreat

47mi from Peru · 1 site · RV

Come find your home away from home at our peaceful lakeside campsite! Nestled on the shores of a beautiful all-sport lake, our campsite offers the perfect escape. Wake up to stunning water views and spend your days casting a line for the abundant walleye and bluegill. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, this is a fisherman’s paradise. Beyond the water, you’ll discover a world of local charm. We’re just a short 15-minute drive from Rentown, a small Amish community where you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal and browse unique stores. If you’re visiting in late summer, you’re in luck — we’re only 15 minutes from the excitement of the annual Blueberry Festival in Plymouth, IN, held over Labor Day weekend. And for all the Fighting Irish fans, our location is a game-day dream. You’re just a quick 40-minute drive from Notre Dame Stadium, so you can easily catch the action. Book your spot today and get ready for a memorable camping trip filled with relaxation, adventure, and the best of Indiana’s local culture!

Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

97%

(85)

38mi from Peru · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Farmsite along Tippecanoe River. 15 minutes to Indiana Beach, canoeing, state park, golf, 5 towns, fishing, YMCA Camp Tecumseh and much more. You will not believe it until you see it. Fishing in the river requires a license. We know you will enjoy your stay and create memories forever.

Blue Water Lake

94%

(58)

44mi from Peru · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

StarCountryAcres Wildlife Hab

100%

(5)

23mi from Peru · 12 sites · Tents

Moved to Indiana from San Antonio Texas, This land has been occupied by my family for over 32 yrs. It's situated out in the country on 3 county line roads, access to StarCountryAcres by State Road 15 and State Road 9 3 country line roads,Grant,Wabash, Huntington Turn on 700 N 1200 S We have built this up to become a Wildlife Habitat Certified by the National Wildlife Federation. Learn more about this land: Bring your own tent (This is a tent only campground and Primitive) and enjoy the 5 acres of land that is Certified by the National Wildlife Federation. There are two Nearby Lakes, there is the Mississinewa Reservoir and the Salamone Reservoir, there are beaches to lay at and swimming allowed, both of these places are not far from StarCountryAcres Wildlife Habitat. Less than 25 miles. Bring a GPS to find these two lakes. If you love watching birds then this is the place to see them, bring your binoculars,scopes and camera's. In the summer you can enjoy the two big Montmorency Cherry Trees, pick and eat all you want.The cherries are all gone but its Blackberry time pick all you want Free.. There are also Raspberry Blackberry Bushes you can pick in mid July. Blackberry Season is over Campers can enjoy the Apple Trees and the Grapes when in season. Apple & Grape season is over Pear season is here, Pick all you want FREE. The pears are ready to eat as they are dropping to the ground What more can a camper want than Fresh berries to pick with your pancakes in the morning! Summer/Fall time only. There is now a 24x8 Screen house, it has a table and chairs and also a bench, on the other end of the screenhouse there is a POTTY. The screen house is for campers who want to eat and not have to worry about bugs buzzing around their food. We have tables and chairs in the screen house. WE ARE OPEN FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND.

Public campgrounds near Peru

Mississinewa Lake Campground

7.4mi from Peru · 404 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississinewa Lake

Salamonie Lake Campground

23mi from Peru · 333 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salamonie Lake

Salamonie River Campground

24mi from Peru · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salamonie River State Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Site #3. Grass will be behind your camper.

M

Michael

November 2025

36 ft Class A

1 night at Camp Ames

Wade was happy to come down and introduce himself and tell us anywhere was fine for us to hook up. Quiet, pristine and never heard our neighbors come in that night. Beautiful river view and pasture for us.

Peter

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Blue Water Lake

I had no problem finding the entrance to the property. I pulled in and contacted Amanda as was asked for in the sites posting for the reservation. I waited and didn't get a reply after about 25 minutes or so I explored and I found my site. It was numbered and found it quite easily on the edge of the large pond which I found out later was once a dolomite quarry. Setup and while I was doing so Amadas parents pulled up and greeted me. View was great of the water and site was level with a large area to turn around my for vehicle and trailer to leave the next morning. No electric or potable water which I knew beforehand but the porta potti was appreciated. Would definitely use Amandas property again.

R

Rachel

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

Nicole and her husband were extremely inviting and accommodating. The property is beautiful and the wildlife abundant. Would definitely recommend!

Site #1. The grass would be behind your camper. This site is closest to the road. Best view of the river.

Cindy

October 2025

29 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Camp Ames

Camp Ames is a very beautiful peaceful camp. Wayde and Beth were great hosts and very communicative. We did purchase the popcorn and I would highly recommend. It was very good! We will definitely be back.

J

J&J

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Camp Ames

Very private and quiet. Beautiful views of the countryside and river. Neat little insulated shack w/ goodies and seating. Very cozy and comfortable.

K

Katy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blue Water Lake

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

G

Genesis

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

My fiancée and I loved our weekend getaway at Nichole’s site. She was very welcoming & gave us a tour of the camp site. The area was very clean & was a perfect spot for us to disconnect from the city life. She even offered the river tubing ride which we also HIGHLY recommend. It was definitely the highlight of our trip. Nicole was also very quick on her responses and helped us with the questions we had. We will definitely visit again & we recommend this stay 👍🏼💚🌳

Kim

October 2025

6 ft travel trailer

Group trip

1 night at Camp Ames

Our group of 10 college students had a wonderful time at Wayde and Beth's! They were both so kind, generous, and thoughtful. We enjoyed eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and honey all from their farm! We had planned on cooking calzones over a campfire that night, but there was a countywide burn ban in effect, so they let us use their bbq grill and the calzones came out perfectly! We launched our canoes in the Mississinewa River right in front of their property and they allowed us to park our car for self-transport at their place. They could not have been easier to work with and had excellent communication. We were also very pleasantly surprised that they had a toilet for us to use, which the whole group was very happy about! We highly recommend!

S

Sandy

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Ames

Really enjoyed camping, it was peaceful, relaxing and the scenery was stunning. It was nice to get away from the hustle and bustle. Wayde and Beth were very friendly and welcoming. Definitely plan on going again.

A

Amy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

Beautiful location. We really enjoyed the river and views. The hosts were great and easy to work with. We will definitely be back.

E

Eugene

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

1 night at Camp Ames

Great campground! Quiet and room to take beautiful walks along the river. All the hookups worked perfectly.

K

Kandi

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

Fabulous! Private, clean, quiet, large site. It was everything we were looking for and the dogs had a blast. We're going back as often as possible! Exceptionally Friendly Host, Allen. Hoosier Heartland ♥️

J

JuliAnn

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

Friendly hosts, nice location! Would definitely return.

L

Lisa

September 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Ames

Camp Ames is just a lovely place to spend a very quiet weekend relaxing. Beautiful property!

M

Marise

September 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

The property was a pleasant surprise for being in a rural area. It was nice to have options of river access for kayaking or a salt water pool to reside in. It was clean. If you’re a tent camper your areas appeared nicely spaced out. If you have an RV you will be at the entrance just off the road (which was rarely traveled). Wide open places if you were to have a group you would have the front all to yourselves. Kayaking on the river was fun. It was a nice couple of days.

E

Emily

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

I loved camping here! The site is clean and well cleared with an amazing view of the river. The hosts were so welcoming and helpful!

Joe

August 2025

21 ft Class C

1 night at Sycamore Springs Farm on Springboro

Peaceful, quite, and great time kayaking and fishing.

M

Mikhail

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lochloosa River Retreat

One of the best Hipcamp experiences so far! Spacious camp spot with stunning views at the river. Feels really secluded, in the same time you are steps away from the facilities and swimming pool. Also, I didn’t have any issues with bugs and mosquitoes despite being among trees close to the river.

T

Trevor

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Ames

Lovely campground. Great views and awesome area. The fishing and hiking in the area are fantastic!

Site #2. The grass would be behind your camper.

N

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Camp Ames

We really enjoyed the property. There was so much nice grassy area behind our sites that we were able to set up our golf game and enjoy. It was peaceful and private and extremely well kept. Very relaxing