Camping in Chain O'Lakes State Park

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Chain O'Lakes State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Chain O'Lakes State Park

100%
(28)

Restful Camping Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Marcellus, MI
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 a 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
97%
(170)

River Camp Fort Wayne

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Fort Wayne, IN
Each site is in a wooded, shaded area with a flat area on the ground to place a single large tent. Each site has its own fire ring and a small wooden table. There is wood on the ground you may use for firewood, and ample twigs etc on the ground for kindling (do not cut any trees or branches off trees). There is a covered firewood shed with dry firewood as well. There are maintained trails with river access for kayaks. There is a porta potty near the campsites with a handwashing station, that is open year round. There is a single bathroom with flush toilet and sink with running water that is a short walk away (open May-Oct depending on weather) There is an outdoor on-demand hot-water shower at bathroom, with a water hose available as well. On-demand hot water heaters provide hotter water at a low water pressure, and cooler water at full blast. Campsites are a short walk (100-200 feet) away from parking area (you cannot drive directly to or park at your campsite). Foster Park is a short bike ride away where you will find greenway trails that run throughout Fort Wayne (ride your bike to downtown!!) Our property backs up to the St Mary's River, bring you kayaks and fishing poles! (We reserve the right to assign you to a different (but equally beautiful) campsite in the case of property maintennance concerns, recent rain or weather conditions etc). All guests must be part of a registered group! Link to Trails Maps fwtrails.org Need to rent a bike or kayak: fwoutfitters.com/#
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$33
 / night
98%
(50)

The Fun Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Fort Wayne, IN
Learn more about this land: Our location is also home to our fantasy destination, The Fun Farm. Not only is the scenery replete with natural beauty - the pond, the fields, the sledding hill, the nature trail through the forest - but also a setting to engage the imagination!   Additional services may be arranged on-site. For example, who would you like to have breakfast with? A superhero? A princess? Or perhaps a souvenir caricature of you and your group is in order to commemorate the experience? Maybe an experiential art, dance, drama or music lesson? Guided tours of the grounds can also be arranged to learn more about the history of the farm and it's originality. If you're interested in a "day trip" or even a limited event, we have the facilities to accommodate your birthday or holiday, engage in art Classes, raise funds for your good cause or enjoy "something different" for this year's corporate party. We're also open to your ideas for a custom school, festival or carnival event. We can accommodate groups from 1 to 400 (maybe more, if we send a few enchanted creatures on vacation!) MORE NOTES ABOUT THE CAMPSITE: We're flexible with wherever you would like to pitch your tent, but the spots we have established are next to our cabin (where the lighting is best and the ground is flattest.) Parking is most easily found next to these sites as well (and the lighting is also excellent.)  Also, in the near vicinity, a shared firepit is readily available and can accommodate at least 12 people. Check out the additional options (like firewood bundles) below and let us know how we can help you make great memories!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
97%
(39)

Stickley Family Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Colon, MI
Welcome to Stickley Family Farms, a peaceful 20+ acre retreat in the heart of Southwest Michigan. Nestled among fields, forest edges, and winding deer trails, our land offers a mix of rustic charm, privacy, and natural beauty—perfect for campers seeking both simplicity and something special. This historic property was originally settled in the 1840s as a mint and dairy farm. After decades of quiet neglect, it’s now coming back to life as a cozy, working farm—revitalized with love, sweat, and just the right amount of magic. Here, you’ll find secluded tent sites, fire pits with wood included, a clean outhouse, and select sites with power access—all surrounded by towering trees and open sky. In the fall, the property transforms into a festive playground with a pumpkin patch, family-friendly corn maze, and even a rideable miniature railroad with nearly a quarter mile of track (yes, adults can ride too!). Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend by the fire or a quiet getaway with kids in tow, there’s room to explore and reconnect. Stickley Family Farms offers: Rustic campsites (tent & small RVs welcome) Farm charm and privacy—no crowded campgrounds here Clean, odor-free outhouse Fire pits, string lights, and optional power Deer, songbirds, and peaceful views in every direction Just minutes from downtown Colon, Michigan—the Magic Capital of the World! Come experience camping with a story—where your stay supports the renewal of a special place, and your mornings start with birdsong and the scent of fresh-cut wood. Whether you're roasting s’mores under the stars or hopping on our mini train this fall, you’ll leave with more than just memories.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$23.75
 / night
96%
(14)

Stay N Daze

1 site · Tent9 acres · Union City, MI
9 acres of secluded woods with a maintained trail right off the Coldwater River, good for Kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Plenty of trees for shade and setting up a hammock. Good stargazing area at night! Across the street there is a county park, Riverbend Park, it is well maintained. Has a volleyball net, cornhole boards, horseshoe set-up, play-sets, pavilion and grills. This park also has access to the Coldwater River for even more fishing spots. I am currently trying to add a couple more spots this season and include a honors system farm stand with farm fresh produce, veggies, eggs, ect. Once the fruit trees and and bushes start getting established and bearing fruit, there will be a u-pick section as well coming in the future seasons ahead! 3.4 Miles from town where there is a grocery store, 5 miles from a dollar general. 15 minutes to Coldwater, MI. 35 Minutes from Battle Creek, MI 45 Minutes from Kalamazoo, MI.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25.50
 / night
100%
(90)

Camp David

1 site · Lodging10 acres · 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) 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night
96%
(54)

Mirror Lake Bunkhouse llc

4 sites · Lodging101 acres · Rome City, IN
You talk about social distancing Mirror Lake is the place for you. All of the Mirror Lake properties are private. There is 175 acres here at mirror lake and the lake is approximately 12 acres. With Amish farms and families all around. The Mirror Lake Bunkhouse has all amenities. You are welcome to cook over an open fire, use the grill or the small kitchen accessories provided. don’t forget the option is always available to go out to dinner with a restaurant only 4 miles away. Although we are located in the middle of the country. You can wake up to beautiful sunrises or take in breath taking sunset in the evening. The lake is a private lake owned by three property owners. Our Cabin # 2 “Old Phil” Is located on the west side of the lake in a 15 acre woods. About 1-1/2 miles away is Our cabin # 1 “Little Elk” Is located near the little Elkhart River. Nestled in its own 10 acre woods. Both of these properties are primitive ( no running water in an out house for a bathroom). Firewood is provided and there are trails in the woods to walk. The Mirror lake property has been a family farm for over 185 years. There is a family cemetery that dates to 1832. If you want to be around a lot of people in the fast track this is not the place for you. If you’re looking for peace, quiet, tranquil, social distance but still enjoyed this is the place for you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night

Camping in Chain O'Lakes State Park guide

Overview

About

Dreaming of heading out to lake country for a boating paradise? Come to Chain O’Lakes already. Here, you will find plenty of pristine beauty among nine connecting lakes. With so many acres of glassy water to explore, make sure to bring your canoe or kayak to drink it all in the right way. As you paddle through the chains of picturesque kettle lakes, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come adventure through this quaint park before. Did we mention there are 10 miles of forested trails just waiting to be traversed and shimmering lakes just waiting to be fished? Whether you're down for some classic tent camping or want to get a little more spontaneous and stay at a cabin on the hillside, you’ll be filled to the brim with good times when you come to Chain O’Lakes.

Notable campgrounds

  • Electric Sites: Offering 331 sites with electrical hookups, these spots are perfect for campers seeking modern comforts amid nature.
  • Non-Electric Sites: For a more rustic experience, choose one of the 49 non-electric sites nestled in the park's scenic beauty.
  • Primitive Sites: Embrace the wilderness at one of the 33 primitive sites, ideal for the true outdoor enthusiast.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak season, to ensure you secure your ideal campsite.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred site is unavailable.

When to go

The best time to visit Chain O'Lakes State Park is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the park's full range of activities, including swimming and boating, can be enjoyed. Winter offers a tranquil, frosty landscape perfect for ice fishing and cross-country skiing, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check for alerts on blue-green algae and trail closures before your visit.
  • Swimming is available from the Saturday before Memorial Day to Labor Day.
  • Boat rentals are offered on weekends and holidays, perfect for exploring the lakes.
  • Remember, only electric motors are allowed on the lakes to preserve the tranquil environment.
  • For a unique experience, join an interpretive program to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.
100%
7 ratings · 0 reviews
  1. Chain O'Lakes State Park