Best Camping in and near Ouabache State Park

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Ouabache Campground

124 sites · RVs, Tents In Ouabache State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Ouabache State Park

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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/#

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Hidden Valley Fun Time Happy Camp!

30 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Muncie, IN

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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Blue Water Lake

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · 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 with one side being 18 feet and the other side 30 feet deep. Lime stone edged with a straight down drop off in most places. Less than a mile from Montpelier, a golf cart community. Beach area available for swimming access. No lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk. Primitive camping available. Out house available.

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Fallen Tree Campground

8 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Albion, IN

Fallen Tree Campground is located directly next to Chain O’Lakes State Park, were you can use our complementary day pass to swim, hike, fish, kayak, etc.! Your space has access to a shared bathroom, shower, kitchen, dining room, living room, and outside fire pit. 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. Fallen Tree also has chickens and geese! We would love to introduce you to all of our feathered friends. There are several designated camping areas, a driveway for car campers, a tiny house, and a converted school bus [skoolie]. We are flexible with our hosting. If you are interested in any group events, we will most likely accommodate. Just reach out to Whitney or Jered.

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Camp Ames

3 sites · RVs15 acres · 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. Not allowing tent or van camping. All campers must be self contained with your own bathroom. No bathroom facility available. 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 4 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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Creekside Acres / N. Manchester

1 site · Lodging3 acres · 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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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!

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Living Waters Resort

40 sites · Tents12 acres · Farmland, IN

This property has everything you could possibly want. 4 acre private lake stocked for good fishing. Western portion of the property is surrounded by the White River stretching north. Sparrow creek borders the South edge of property. Several spots for camping under the trees near a full service bathhouse. For those that want to see the stars; you can set up north of Mills Lake and experience little to no light pollution! Fishing on Mills Lake does not require fishing permit. Large Pavillion for shelter/picnics/activities. Single Site is limited to 1 Tent up to 4 Adults. Conveniently located between Muncie and Winchester. Close enough for a short drive to the city and far enough to be in the serene country setting. Less than 2 miles from Winchester Speedway!

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Lazy Acres

33 sites · Tents12 acres · Modoc, IN

Experience the tranquility of a quiet country setting just minutes away from shopping, dining, and Summit Lake State Park, and less than a half-hour from an array of entertainment options. Nestled on 12 acres of family-owned, serene countryside, our homestead offers a private getaway for individuals or the whole family. Whether you prefer a secluded retreat or a communal gathering, rent a single spot or the entire 12 acres for your outing. We strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests. Throughout the year, our property is home to chickens, a cow or two, usually 3 or 4 pigs, and a couple of dogs, offering a glimpse into rural life. Join us this weekend and gather around the fire pit for warmth and camaraderie. We provide 10-20 primitive sites tailored to your needs, from secluded spots to a communal area where multiple families can camp together and share stories around the fire. Each site includes picnic tables, fire pits, and free trash pickup. We also offer firewood, but kindly request that you refrain from bringing wood from elsewhere to preserve the health of our woods for future visitors. For your convenience, we have a small camp store stocked with essential items often forgotten at home. Additionally, children can enjoy our small playground while adults relax in nature. Whether you pitch a tent or hang your hammock from a tree, we welcome you with open arms. Don't have camping gear? Give us a call, as we offer tent and hammock rentals, along with various other amenities. If you prefer indoor accommodations, we have a camper ready for your stay. Generators are available for rent; please inquire with the host for details. We look forward to hosting you on our picturesque countryside retreat.

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Maple Brook

7 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Huntington, IN

Welcome to our incredible rural property, close to Fort Wayne & a stones throw to the towns Roanoke & Huntington. We have creeks and shaded woods outback & a sunny beach and swimming pond out front. A 1/2 acre garden & chicken pen for collecting food for your use! Have a fire, go for a swim, or do some gardening. The possibilities are endless. We also offer discounts on stays in exchange for property work. Wifi is available, grill is available for your use as well. Electrical outlets are available as well as indoor bathroom privileges. We welcome all walks of life & and meeting new people. On pleasant evenings we offer outdoor movies.

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Gravel's End

1 site · RV9 acres · Muncie, IN

Bare-bones camping! This secluded spot allows dry camping in a beautiful 9-acre woods. A winding gravel drive takes you to the heart of the forest and away from civilization. Fully self-contained RVs/camper vans can park level and find a large clearing to enjoy the sounds and sites of native Hoosier flora and fauna. This is a single lane with no turn-around for lengthy vehicles. Our family’s desire is to eventually live on the site and some signs of development can be found, but our first priority is the tedious but rewarding task of removing the non-native species (Burning Bush, Winter Creeper, Asian Honeysuckle, Garlic Mustard, Multiflora Rose) to allow for the native woods and understory to thrive. We are a few years into this process and have already seen major gains in the health of the woods, thanks to the guidance we received from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Limited use of the site ensures the native animal presence is not overly disturbed and preserves a true experience for campers to enjoy. Fill your fresh water tank before arriving and dump your black water tank at a dump station when you’re done. Gray water may be dumped onsite ONLY if you are using earth friendly soaps/ cleaners. Pre-cut and dried firewood for your enjoyment can be arranged ahead of time for a fee. Kindling can be gathered in the cleared areas and along the trails, but we ask that you do not enter non-cleared areas of the woods as this is disruptive to the plant and animal life. There is a one party limit so you may enjoy your nature experience in privacy. With two connecting trails carefully carved into the woods, you are sure to spot signs of creatures like red squirrels, chipmunks, possum, rabbits, garter snakes, frogs, toads, and deer. This property is a bird watchers delight! In the past year, we have observed Blue Jays, Cardinals, Goldfinches, Carolina Wrens, Baltimore Orioles, Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, Finches, Downy Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, and Pileated Woodpeckers. Black Vultures and Red-Tailed Hawks are a common sight, and you may hear Owls during your overnight stay. Despite the feeling of total privacy, this site is minutes from Muncie, a mid-sized city in Delaware county. Muncie is home to Ball State University, which hosts concerts, speakers, and other programs. Muncie boasts an active downtown with shops, restaurants and breweries. IU Ball Hospital, an award-winning medical facility, is a 15-minute drive. Ruoff Music Center, a beloved outdoor music venue that provides live entertainment throughout the concert season, is less than an hour from the site. Indianapolis, a little over an hour drive, offers vast entertainment opportunities.

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Country Bungalow

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Fort Wayne, IN

We bought this one acre property tucked in the corner of the woods a little more than 2 years ago from the family who built it and lived here for 69 years. It was all original since 1946! The dairy and the farmland around us has been family-owned for over 100 years! Our little acre has become a sweet little hidden secret to all who visit. Quiet and beautiful, yet close to all the quaintness Fort Wayne has to offer. The sunrises are amazing! For nature lovers, there are so many different birds that frequent our trees, even an occasional Bald Eagle! We have renovated the tiny shed into an occasional repurpose shop and now are opening it up for a comfortable glamping spot! We continue to work on renovating our home to eventually welcome more guests. We feel like God saved this sweet spot just for us, so we can't help but share it with others! We hope all who stay, feel the same!

The best camping near Ouabache State Park guide

Overview

About

If you're reading Ouabache State Park like "Wabash" instead of "Ooahbash," we give you props for being exceptionally intuitive. This beautiful state park offers all the amenities of a resort with all the rustic nostalgia of the outdoors. Hike one of five trails that weave through woodland marshes and wind around hickory and oak forests, or take the easier path and bike one of the paved trails. A refreshing dip in the pool or a friendly game of volleyball will be sure to get your heart rate up, and if you come during the right time of year, festivals offer everything from outdoor cooking merit badges to a bison bash. With boating, fishing, and even a resident naturalist to inform, Ouabache State Park really covers all its bases.

Notable campgrounds

Electric Campground: Offers spacious sites with electrical hookups, perfect for RVs and tent campers seeking convenience.
Youth Tent Area: Dedicated space for youth groups to camp, fostering a sense of adventure and camaraderie amid nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak seasons, to ensure you secure a spot at this popular destination.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back regularly for newly available sites.
Explore nearby camping options to have a backup plan in case Ouabache State Park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Ouabache State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers full access to park amenities but can be busy. Winter visits are serene, though some facilities may be closed.

Know before you go

Check for any alerts on blue-green algae and adhere to safety guidelines when near the water.
Beach and pool hours may vary due to weather and staffing; contact the park office for current times.
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure your safety while hiking.
Make shelter reservations in advance to secure your spot for picnicking and gatherings.