Located in northwest Indiana, Tippecanoe River State Park is one of the best parks in the region for canoers. Float down the miles of beautiful and scenic waters and soak in the gorgeous forests that border the river.
There’s more than canoeing, however, whenever you visit the park. You’ll find miles of trails that lead you through the scenic forests. You can explore the park on foot, bike, or on horseback. And if you come to the park during the winter, you’ll be able to use the trails as a cross-country skiing course.
The forests of the park are teeming with wildlife, including dozens of species of birds and mammals. If you visit during the summer, there is an interpretive naturalist who will guide you through all of the park’s wildlife.
There are over 100 sites with electrical hookups, so you’ll be able to camp with modern amenities. And there is also an equestrian camp, if you are planning on bringing a horse to the park with your rig. No matter how long you plan on staying, you’ll find plenty of natural sights to keep you busy throughout your visit to the park.
Located in northwest Indiana, Tippecanoe River State Park is situated between multiple major cities in the region. If you are driving from Indianapolis, take I-65 north out of the city and you will reach the park in just over two hours. Driving from Chicago, you’ll take I-90 and arrive at the park in one hour and 45 minutes.
There are a variety of roads leading throughout the park. Some of the smaller roads may have RV restrictions, but all of the main roads can be accessed with your RV. Parking is available at several lots within the park and at your campsite.
The main campground within the park houses 112 sites, all of which have electrical hookups. The campground has restrooms, drinking water, and comfort stations. The campsites are all pet-friendly, although you do have to keep dogs on a leash.
There are multiple hiking trails that lead directly into the campground. The boat launch is a bit further away, but is still just up the road. You can also reach the river within a few minutes walk, where you’ll also find a picnic shelter. Reservations must be made in advance.
Although the campgrounds are open year round, they are first-come, first-served from October through March. If you plan on visiting the park during this period, call the park before you visit to inquire about site availability. Also note that some facilities may not be operational during this time.
Located on Tippecanoe River, the park, as its name would suggest, is a popular destination for canoers. There are miles of river for you to explore, as the park stretches along seven miles of water.
There is a boat ramp that makes getting your canoe onto the river easy. There are no boat rentals available, however, so you’ll have to bring your own canoe.
There’s plenty of ground to explore in the park, with nearly 20 miles of hiking trails leading through the forests surrounding the river. Hike up to the fire tower for a panoramic view of the park. Or take a relaxing walk along the river.
There’s a range of difficulty levels, depending on how strenuous of a hike you are looking for. And many of the trails connect, so you’ll be able to extend your hike, should you want a longer adventure.
The hiking is excellent year round, although at its best from April through October. The autumn forests in the park are stunning as the colors begin to deepen.
Those who want to bring a horse to the park will find 15 miles of equestrian trails. Explore the banks of the river and the forests surrounding the water. The trails highlight all of the park’s plant and wildlife species.
Like with hiking, the equestrian trails are at their best from April through October. The fall tends to be one of the most popular times to visit the park. The trails are shared with hikers, so do take caution.
There is also an equestrian campground, featuring 54 primitive campsites with no hookups of any kind. These sites can also be reserved online up to six months in advance, and must be booked at least a day before you plan on arriving. Although it is a primitive campground, you’ll find toilets and drinking water, and there is also a playground. Pets are allowed, although they must be kept on a leash.
There are equestrian trails that lead out of the campground. The river is a bit further away than it is from the main campground, but is still within walking distance.
No matter what time of year you plan on visiting the park, you’ll find a wide variety of bird species.
You’ll find the northern cardinal, Indiana’s state bird, as well as species such as killdeer, ring-billed gull, and nighthawk. Come during different seasons and you’ll be able to see an assortment of new birds.
Try to find a local field guide before you come to the park, or ask park officials for more information. This will help you learn more about all of the bird species in the park.
If you want to do more on the waters at the park, make sure to pack rod and reel in your campervan. There is excellent fishing along the Tippecanoe River, and you’ll find a wide variety of fish species populating the waters.
The fishing is at its best from spring through fall, although those visiting in the colder months of the year will still find fish to catch. Just be patient and use a slower bait, as the fish are less active this time of year.
Those RV campers who choose to visit the park during the winter months will be able to use the hiking trails as a cross-country skiing course. There area is still populated with wildlife, even during the coldest times of the year. You’ll find plenty of deer and dozens of species of birds.
The trails are usually not groomed, so less experienced skiers may have some difficulties, especially after heavy snow storms. But there’s plenty of terrain to suit skiers of all different experience levels. There are no rentals, so make sure you bring your skis with your rig.
