The best camping in Mississinewa Lake, IN

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Top-rated campgrounds

Camp Ames

100%
(69)
3.6mi from Mississinewa Lake · 4 sites · RVs · Peru, IN
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.
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$50
 / night

Creekside Acres / N. Manchester

96%
(39)
23mi from Mississinewa Lake · 1 site · Lodging · North Manchester, IN
We moved to our 3 1/2 acre property in 2012 to escape town life and to enjoy a more simple family life. Nestled among the trees, our home is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy what God created - singing birds, fragrant flowers, colorful sunsets, gigantic ancient sycamores, and rushing creek waters. We're excited to share this beautiful area, especially the adorable shed and gardens we created for others to experience the peace of God. It's our hope that many will discover the tranquility we have come to appreciate here.Learn more about this land:The Shed Retreat is a sacred space for anyone looking to shed their worries, fears, and busy schedules. Once a home for goats located in a secluded area on our property, it is now a peaceful garden oasis among the trees for those seeking a break from the norm. Inside, you can enjoy a cozy and relaxing place to lounge or rest.  Outside, you can spend time around the fire pit, collect fresh eggs for breakfast, kayak on a nearby river, bike to local ice cream shops, or take a nap in a hammock.
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$63
 / night

Heritage Farm Stay Adventure

99%
(384)
24mi from Mississinewa Lake · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Flora, IN
Enjoy a stay at Heritage Farm and experience all the exhilaration that an Indiana farm has to offer. Heritage Farm is a working alpaca farm with over 50 alpacas you can watch and interact with. Also residing on the farm are a flock of chickens, several goats. The newest addition to the farm is a pair of small breed Kune Kune pigs! If you want to, you can help with the daily chores of feeding the animals and collecting eggs. After that, you can explore the big red barn that was selected as one of the top-ten Bicentennial barns in the state. Roam around the 120 acre homestead, woods and creek and soak in the sights, sounds and smells of the farm. Be sure to visit our farm store before you leave where you can shop for alpaca products such as sweaters, hats, mittens and scarves. Pick up some farm fresh eggs from our flock of pastured chickens! Heritage Farm has several options for overnight lodging. One of the most popular places to stay is in our authentic 1850's log cabin. And it's certainly special to us as well. The cabin represents a valued part of our heritage. It reminds us every day of our agricultural roots, solid values and the importance of faith and family. Our Philosophy You want to have a wonderful stay at Heritage Farm and we want that for you too. This is your retreat for however long you are staying and we hope you'll be relaxed, comfortable and happy. Our Faith Our Christian faith is important to us. We have been so richly blessed with this farm and sharing it with others is what God has called us to do. We strive to show God's love to our guests by exceeding their needs and expectations and by inviting them to enjoy his beautiful creation. We abide by what it says in the Bible in 1 Peter 4:9-10: "Cheerfully share your home with those who need a place to stay. God has given each of us a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another." Valuing Our Past, Building for the Future Our mission at Heritage Farm is to apply that same pioneer spirit and value system to our alpaca business and Farm Stay enterprise. We are dedicated to working hard to provide the best of care to our herd and our overnight guests. Visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/heritagefarmstays
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$32
 / night

Camp David

100%
(102)
32mi from Mississinewa Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Rochester, IN
🛶 Camp David – A Peaceful Riverside Hideaway 🛶 Fulton County, Indiana Welcome to Camp David, a quiet riverside cabin tucked away on an old family farm along the banks of the Tippecanoe River. This simple, off-the-grid retreat is made for those looking to fish, float, or just watch the water drift by while soaking up the sounds of the woods. Wildlife is your neighbor here—you might spot deer wandering the fields, otters slipping through the water, or turkeys and songbirds calling through the trees. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the deck, casting a line in the river, or building a campfire as the sun sets, nature is always nearby. ☕️ 🪵 The Cabin: 🛶 Rustic cabin with generator-ready power for light and phone charging 🛶 No traditional bed—air mattresses available upon request 🛶 Firewood available: $25 per 75 cubic feet (let us know if you'd like some) Good to Know: Easily accessible from the road Close to town, but far enough to feel like your own little world No plumbing or running water, I will have plenty of fresh water waiting for you at the cabin and more available upon request. (come prepared to unplug and embrace the simplicity) Composting toilet Pier is seasonal Things to Do: Fishing, kayaking, or floating down the Tippecanoe River Wildlife watching and birding Stargazing and evening campfires Just being in the quiet Whether you're here for a solo escape, a couples' unplugged weekend, or a peaceful basecamp for outdoor adventures, Camp David invites you to slow down and reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with the river. Browse our photos to get a closer look at this serene hideaway. We hope to welcome you soon! Far enough away but easy to get to. Come relax and spend some time at Camp David.
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$85
 / night

Blue Water Lake

94%
(58)
37mi from Mississinewa Lake · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Montpelier, IN
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.
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$35
 / night

Lochloosa River Retreat

98%
(137)
38mi from Mississinewa Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Culver, IN
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!
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$48
 / night

Fairytale Camping

98%
(45)
38mi from Mississinewa Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Delphi, IN
Farm to Folklore is an inclusive getaway and activity farm where families and friends are welcome to rest and explore. Rent the farmstays filled with mystery and wonder. An eclectic expression of the rural Midwest mixed with just right touch of the fantastical. Our family farm is 40 acres of beautiful fields, woods with trails and creeks, and even a small pond with an island. An adventure awaits while walking through the fields, gardens, pond, and forest trails. Bonfire areas throughout the property. Visit with the ponies, ducks, chickens, and farm cats. Experiences available for everyone. Close to Indiana Beach, Delphi Historic Wabash and Erie Canal, Brookston Festivals. Please be aware our property is a family farm and we host mutiple stays. Please be respectful of other guests and private spaces. Thank you
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$100
 / night

♥ Uncle Bob's Backwoods

100%
(52)
43mi from Mississinewa Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Noblesville, IN
Camp with privacy on a chicken homestead nestled a quarter mile into the woods. Choose to camp in a highly frequented deer area by the driveway or walk back to the orchard. Each campsite is private, ensuring you won't have anyone camping right next to you. Sites accommodate from 3 to 7 tents, each with its unique charm and surrounded by ample firewood. Experience the natural habitat of foxes, deer, pileated woodpeckers, hawks, owls, and other woodland creatures. Depending on rainfall, a pond occasionally fills up, providing a great opportunity for catch-and-release frog and toad adventures! (Nets provided or use your hands like a pro) Meet our two domesticated squirrels, "Big" and "Little," who are always hungry and love pecans. Please be sweet to these two precious babies. They are the squirrels that don't run away from humans. Wake up to the delight of fresh eggs, straight from our homestead! (Inquire if interested) Water: Garden hoses are at each site filled with fresh water from our well cut deeply into limestone. Drinkable, but it has a little extra iron in it. Restroom: Porta potty on the Southside of the driveway across from the Pipeline Pole. The walk to Orchard Campsites is a 2-3 minute. - Feel free to pee in the woods like God intended Power: Electrical access available near house for charging and 15amp at each RV site. - Ruoff Music Center: 18 minutes (Northwest, so less traffic) - State Road 37: 6 minutes - Downtown Historic Noblesville: 5 minutes - Amenities: Grocery, shops, food, and drinks! - Bier Brewery: 9 minutes (great outdoor area) - Wolfies Restaurant: 6 minutes (on Morse Reservoir) - Forest Park: 3 minutes - Features: Playgrounds, sand volleyball, skate park, basketball, bocce ball, tennis courts - Schwartz's Bait & Tackle: 4 minutes
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$40
 / night

Hidden Valley Fun Time Happy Camp!

98%
(123)
44mi from Mississinewa Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Muncie, IN
READ ALL OF "SITE" DESCRIPTION PLEASE BE AWARE THAT PICTURES ARE OF PROPERTY IN GENERAL AND NOT SPECIFIC SITE YOU ARE BOOKING THAT WILL VARY BY NEED, FIT, AND LONGEVITY OF BOOKING!!! Thanks!!! Once the secret speakeasy after dark spot for local political big wigs this property has been transformed from swampland to hidden gem right on the edge of America's Hometown of Muncie, Indiana! Welcome to Narnia! Or Atlantis!? Or... The Property? The Hidden Valley? We just haven't committed to a name yet so it's a little bit of everything all rolled into one! 8 acres on the magical Ganges, er, White River makes for a fun time. You can expect a certain amount of privacy while still potentially making a new friend or two depending on the night. You will be nestled under some giant sycamores, cottonwoods, black walnuts, catulpas, and a mess of bush honeysuckle that is always being battled! We have 2-3 sites directly on the river and then scores throughout with trails, hills, and other interesting features. Multiple firepits though I CANNOT guarantee firewood. There is often plenty to collect or available on site but if you can bring your own that'd be safest bet! We are (somehow) located partially inside Muncie city limits right on the river. Yes you may occasionally hear some trains or even particularly loud cars while camping deep in the woods but this is the tradeoff for a one mile drive to bars, restaurants, and groceries! Best of both worlds. The Muncie Eagles, whose nest resides directly across the river from us, do not seem to mind! This location is also directly on two main bike trail routes and our trails are fun for low impact mountain biking! We also have a small armada of kayaks/canoes on site; IF arranged that option does exist for cost of transport! We have 2 porta potties on site as well and fresh water hose available at main house. Looking forward to hosting!
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$36
 / night

The best camping in Mississinewa Lake, IN guide

Overview

About

Gargantuan and beautiful are two accurate descriptors for Mississinewa Lake. With hundreds of campsites and thousands of expansive acres, this place may even be big enough to hold a family reunion with extended cousins and all. Suit up for some waterskiing then lounge by the beach, or load up on necessities at the marina and boat and fish until the sun comes down. Opportunities to hunt or even host a frolfing tournament just spell out more adventure for you and your friends. With six different trails winding through paths of wildflowers and wooded ponds, this epic park gives us the feeling your experience will be postcard worthy.

Notable campgrounds

  • Full Hook-up Sites: Offering 39 sites with all the conveniences for RVs and trailers, perfect for a comfortable outdoor stay.
  • Electric Sites: With 335 sites available, these are ideal for campers looking for a mix of nature and modern amenities.
  • Non-electric Sites: For the more traditional camping experience, 57 sites provide a serene connection with nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your preferred spot, as sites fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation at this popular destination.
  • Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The best time to visit Mississinewa Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers a wealth of activities but expect larger crowds and warmer temperatures. Winters can be harsh, with some amenities and areas potentially closed, so check ahead for seasonal accessibility.

Know before you go

  • Check for any alerts on blue-green algae and road closures before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and gear for hiking and water activities, and always prioritize safety.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with easy access trails and facilities catering to all visitors.
  • Reserve your campsite or shelterhouse in advance to guarantee your spot amid the park's popularity.
  • Remember to shower after swimming in the lake and follow all guidelines for a responsible and eco-friendly visit.
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