Harper Lake Campground

Are you an Indiana local dreaming of a peaceful camping getaway where you can truly relax by the water, enjoy excellent fishing, and connect with friendly fellow campers? Harper Lake Campground in Kimmell, Indiana, is often described as a "rustic campground" and a fantastic spot for those who appreciate a laid-back, community-oriented outdoor experience. Family-owned and operated since 1972, this campground prides itself on offering a tranquil atmosphere where visitors can truly unwind and enjoy nature.

For Hoosiers, finding a campground that balances natural beauty with a welcoming community spirit is a true find. Harper Lake Campground excels in creating an environment where both short-term visitors and long-term seasonal residents feel at home. With its focus on fishing and visiting, it’s not a "resort" in the traditional sense, but rather a charming, down-to-earth destination perfect for those seeking genuine outdoor experiences.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Harper Lake Campground, helping local users in Indiana understand what makes this a unique and appealing choice. We will explore its serene location and accessibility, the practical services it offers, and the special features that highlight its relaxed and friendly character. Ultimately, you'll discover why Harper Lake Campground is a suitable and recommended spot for your next Indiana camping adventure.

Harper Lake Campground is situated at 1006 S 900 W, Kimmell, IN 46760, USA. Kimmell is a small, unincorporated community located in Noble County, Indiana, placing the campground within a tranquil, rural landscape. This setting provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the peace and quiet of nature.

The campground's most significant geographic feature is its location on a chain of lakes. Harper Lake Campground itself is on a chain of five lakes that can be accessed by pontoon boat, and it's the headwaters to Lake Wawasee, Indiana's largest inland lake. This connectivity to multiple lakes, including 88-acre Knapp Lake, offers extensive opportunities for water-based activities like fishing, boating, and canoeing.

For Indiana residents, Harper Lake Campground is reasonably accessible. It's approximately a 41-minute drive from Fort Wayne, about 59 minutes from Elkhart, and a bit over an hour from South Bend. While it offers a secluded feel, it's not so remote as to be difficult to reach, making it a viable option for weekend trips or longer stays from various parts of Northern Indiana. The flat terrain of the area also generally makes for easy navigation to and within the campground.

• RV Sites: Offers various types of RV sites including waterfront, wooded, open, and pull-through options, with water and electric hookups available.
• Primitive Tent Sites: Dedicated primitive sites are available for tent campers.
• Seasonal Camping: Provides seasonal camping options, with rates available for extended stays.
• Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Camping: Flexible camping rates to accommodate different stay durations.
• Group & Club Camping: Areas suitable for accommodating groups and clubs.
• Boat Rentals: Offers rentals for pontoon boats, row boats, motor boats, canoes, and paddle boats.
• Camp Store: An on-site camp store for essentials.
• Live Bait & Tackle: Conveniently available for fishing enthusiasts.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A facility for preparing your catch.
• Sandy Swimming Beach: A designated beach area for swimming.
• Dump Stations: Two dump stations are available for RV waste disposal.
• Honey Wagon Service: Provides mobile waste disposal service.
• LP Gas: Propane refilling is available on-site.
• Modern Restrooms & Showers: Facilities for personal hygiene, though one review notes them as clean but potentially needing updating.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Available at sites for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Firewood: Available for purchase.

• Family-Owned & Operated: Run by the Miller Family (Jim and Stephanie) since 1972, providing a personal and dedicated touch to management.
• Friendly & Accommodating Owners: Jim and Steph are consistently praised for being "very accommodating and friendly," creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Friendly Community: The campground fosters a friendly environment, with "seasonal residents and campers" being "very friendly and easy going," even offering help to new arrivals.
• Quiet & Peaceful: Despite being on a lake, the campground maintains a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
• 10 MPH Speed Limit on Lake: A significant highlight for many, ensuring a very relaxing boating and canoeing experience without being disturbed by speedboats. This makes it particularly safe and enjoyable for families and those seeking tranquility on the water.
• Excellent Fishing: The chain of lakes offers fantastic fishing opportunities, especially with live bait and tackle available on-site.
• Variety of Sites: Offers a diverse range of sites including shady tent lots, lakefront, wooded, and open sites to suit different preferences.
• Rustic Charm: Described as a "rustic campground," appealing to those who prefer a more traditional, less "resort junk" camping experience, focusing on nature and camaraderie.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome, making it easy for families to bring their beloved companions along.
• Activities Focused on Relaxation & Nature: While not a "resort," it provides activities like canoeing, fishing, swimming, horseshoes, and a party/game room, maintaining a peaceful vibe.

Address: 1006 S 900 W, Kimmell, IN 46760, USA

Phone: (260) 710-4074

Mobile Phone: +1 260-710-4074

For Indiana residents seeking a genuine and laid-back outdoor experience, Harper Lake Campground in Kimmell stands out as a highly suitable destination. Its appeal for locals is deeply rooted in its authentic charm, the welcoming community it fosters, and its focus on accessible water-based recreation right here in the Hoosier State.

One of the most compelling reasons for Hoosiers to choose Harper Lake Campground is its wonderfully friendly and accommodating atmosphere. The owners, Jim and Steph, along with the "easy going" seasonal residents, create a truly welcoming environment where visitors feel comfortable and even like "family." This sense of community, where a neighbor might help you start your campfire, is invaluable for those looking to build connections and enjoy a genuinely social, yet relaxed, camping experience close to home.

Furthermore, the campground's setting on a chain of lakes, particularly with the unique 10 mph speed limit, offers an unparalleled tranquil water experience. For Indiana families and individuals who love canoeing, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water without the disturbance of high-speed boats, this feature is a significant draw. It ensures a safer and more peaceful environment for enjoying the lake's abundant fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. The variety of sites, from shady tent spots to RV-friendly areas, ensures that various camping preferences are catered to.

While the campground embraces a "rustic" feel, appealing to those who value a less commercialized, more traditional camping experience, it still provides essential services like full hookups, modern restrooms (albeit with suggestions for updates), and a general store. This balance means locals can enjoy the simplicity of nature without fully roughing it, making it accessible to a wider range of campers, including families with children and pets.

In essence, Harper Lake Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a piece of Indiana charm where you can escape the daily grind, enjoy the great outdoors, and feel part of a friendly, laid-back community. Its focus on fishing, quiet lake enjoyment, and genuine hospitality makes it an excellent and highly recommended destination for any Indiana local seeking a truly relaxing and memorable camping experience.

Harper Lake Campground

1006 S 900 W, Kimmell, IN 46760, USA