Chain O Lakes State Park

4.59

315 reviews

2355 East 75 South, Albion, Indiana, 46701-9507, United States

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Indiana#3 Group Camping Indiana Beach Camping Indiana +7 more

Quick Facts

958 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana Department of Natural Resources site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

958 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana Department of Natural Resources site

Official Website

Get Directions

Chain O Lakes State Park

$0.00 - $5.50 / night

Campsite Fees

Camp store sells firewood for $5.50 a bundle. No explicit fees stated for campsite reservations.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.59

Top-Rated

Based on 315 reviews

238 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadespacioushikingfriendly

"The reviews for Chain O' Lakes State Park are predominantly positive, with users praising its amenities, variety of activities, and overall cleanliness. However, certain areas, particularly restrooms and showers, have been criticized for outdated facilities and inconsistent cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2355 East 75 South, Albion, Indiana, 46701-9507, United States

Chain O Lakes State Park

2355 East 75 South, Albion, Indiana, 46701-9507, United States

Driving directionsFrom the North: State Road 9 south to park entrance. From the South: State Road 9 north to park entrance. From the East: U.S. 6 west to SR 9 south to park entrance. From the West: U.S. 6 east to SR 9 south to park entrance. From Fort Wayne: U.S. 33 northwest to SR 9 north to park entrance.

The campground is accessible via State Road 9 and U.S. 6, both paved major roads. No indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in the source.

Nearby places

Albion (0 miles, immediate vicinity)

Fort Wayne (approximately 23 miles, 40 minutes drive)

Kendallville (approximately 12 miles, 20 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies are available within the campground facilities at a well-stocked camp store. Additional supplies can be found in Albion, approximately 5 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Chain O Lakes State Park

Experience the park's changing personality through four distinct seasons. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming, with temperatures climbing into the inviting mid-80s°F—though the humidity reminds you to stay hydrated during adventures. When autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a painter's palette of golds and crimsons under crisp, comfortable skies. Spring awakens the park with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while winter's freezing embrace creates a serene, frost-kissed wonderland for those seeking solitude and stark beauty.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in IN

Summer ideal for swimming, paddling and rentals; warm weather but busier season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall brings birding and foliage; generally quieter and good for wildlife viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring good for paddling, wildlife and bird migration; pleasant conditions before peak summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Open year-round but winter activities are limited; quieter and fewer services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: Reports of bathroom cleanliness need attention; two reviews mentioned mold and poor maintenance. Additionally, heavy algae in some lake areas during low water conditions limits boating.

About Chain O Lakes State Park

Discover your perfect outdoor escape at Chain O' Lakes State Park, where nine pristine interconnected lakes create a paddler's paradise. Glide through narrow passages between lakes in your kayak or canoe, cast a line into waters teeming with fish, or simply relax on the sandy beach while kids explore the playground. This welcoming destination embraces families and their four-legged companions alike, with convenient boat and kayak rentals making it easy to explore every hidden cove. Winding trails invite you to discover the park's natural beauty on foot, creating memories that last long after your visit ends.

Chain O’ Lakes offers a variety of camping accommodations, catering to a broad range of visitors. Options include primitive camping, electric sites, full hookup sites, and cabin lodging.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the park's fascinating historical treasures. The Old Jail Museum offers a glimpse into frontier justice, its weathered walls holding stories of outlaws and lawmen from bygone days. Follow in the footsteps of history at Stone's Trace State Historic Site, where early settlers once traveled this important route through the wilderness, shaping the region's development and leaving their mark on the landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's changing personality through four distinct seasons. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming, with temperatures climbing into the inviting mid-80s°F—though the humidity reminds you to stay hydrated during adventures. When autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a painter's palette of golds and crimsons under crisp, comfortable skies. Spring awakens the park with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while winter's freezing embrace creates a serene, frost-kissed wonderland for those seeking solitude and stark beauty.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry is on full display throughout this glacially sculpted wonderland. The park's signature chain of nine lakes sparkles like jewels connected by intimate waterways, creating a maze of aquatic exploration. Dense woodlands embrace the shorelines, where hiking trails wind through carpets of seasonal wildflowers and past tranquil wetlands alive with birdsong. Watch for deer browsing at dawn, herons stalking the shallows, and countless other wildlife that call this diverse ecosystem home—all remnants of ancient glaciers that carved this remarkable landscape thousands of years ago.

Geological RegionAncient glaciers left their magnificent signature across this landscape, carving out the distinctive chain of lakes that gives the park its name. These interconnected waterways represent a remarkable geological story written in water and stone—a testament to the massive ice sheets that once covered the region. Today, this glacially formed network of lakes and surrounding wetlands creates a unique aquatic ecosystem, where each narrow passage between lakes tells the tale of nature's patient sculpting over millennia.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Check-out

/10:00 AM

Stay Limit

/10 PM lockout policy

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutWide variety of camping options including primitive, electric, and accessible sites. Some corners offer more space and privacy.

Reservation PlatformsNot explicitly stated.

Walk-in AvailabilityFeedback suggests availability varies by season, especially weekends, as sites fill fast. No official details provided.

Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly stated.

AccessibilityChain O’ Lakes offers handicap-accessible campsites. Chad Rowe highlighted that 'the campgrounds offer handicap accessible camp sites.' However, other aspects of accessibility, such as bathrooms, were noted to be lacking in features like changing tables and handicap stalls.

Site SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some sites being long enough for larger campers but lacking in width, leading to a 'stacked' feeling, as noted by Annette Jarvis. Shaded sites are common, though some are in direct sunlight according to Erika Ostrowski.

PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites differ depending on the site. Some, like those on corners, are more spacious and private, while others feel clustered. Annette Jarvis also noted the lack of privacy in some cases.

Recommended SitesAvoid site #28 due to its slope; good corner sites provide increased privacy.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Chain O' Lakes State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities that cater to a diverse range of interests. From hiking and boating to swimming and wildlife viewing, visitors have plenty to enjoy. The park is particularly known for its water-based activities, featuring interconnected lakes that are ideal for kayaking and canoeing. Nathan S. stated, 'We try to camp or visit every year,' showcasing the park's popularity.

HikingThe park features multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, including interpretive trails and moderate hikes. Debra Wolfe mentioned, 'Nice park with different hiking trails.' Erika Ostrowski highlighted that the park offers 'miles and miles of trails for hiking and kayaking.'

FishingFishing is a popular activity at the park, with opportunities available in the park's interconnected lakes. Brent Johnson pointed out that 'you can update your fishing license at the Park Headquarters,' and praised the presence of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for ensuring a respectful environment.

SwimmingA designated swimming area is available at the park, though some users like Ashley Stevens noted that the beach is 'not as busy as it used to be' and suggested the return of features like a diving board.

BikingThe park is bike-friendly, with ample space for biking around the campground and trails. Debra Wolfe mentioned that the park is 'large enough to take a bike to get around or to the beach.'

BoatingBoating is one of the highlights at Chain O' Lakes, with rentals available for kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and john boats. Annette Jarvis described it as ideal for 'adventurous boaters or fishermen,' while Cheri Langel mentioned the '9 small lakes all connected by small passages to fish and kayak in.'

Wildlife viewingThe park offers opportunities for bird watching and observing other wildlife. Rebecca Quesenberry noted 'lots of bird watching along the trail' during her winter camping experience.

Beach activitiesBeach activities include swimming and sunbathing, though some users felt the beach area could be improved. Ashley Stevens noted, 'The beach wasn't as busy as it used to be... but it was still just as beautiful.'

Cultural and Educational ProgramsCultural and educational programs include interpretive displays, nature programs, and historical programs. Chad Rowe highlighted 'different scheduled activities for the whole family,' adding to the park's appeal.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a nuisance; some visitors noted issues with algae in the lakes during low water conditions. Wet campsites after rain may cause standing water issues.

Active AlertsReports of bathroom cleanliness need attention; two reviews mentioned mold and poor maintenance. Additionally, heavy algae in some lake areas during low water conditions limits boating.

Fire PolicyFirewood available at $5.50 per bundle. No specific rules about fire pits are mentioned other than complaints about dangerous configurations in user reviews.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 11 PM is observed as quiet hours, according to reviews.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations are located in Albion or Fort Wayne.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground provides trash and recycling facilities, but some users noted that there were limited dumpsters available, which could be inconvenient.

Water FeaturesCampground is within walking distance of interconnected lakes ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Camp HostCampground hosts are present and provide assistance. No direct contact information was noted.

Weather at Chain O Lakes State Park

Reviews

4.6

315 reviews

Top-Rated

Chain O Lakes State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The reviews for Chain O' Lakes State Park are predominantly positive, with users praising its amenities, variety of activities, and overall cleanliness. However, certain areas, particularly restrooms and showers, have been criticized for outdated facilities and inconsistent cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 315 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive mentions include the well-stocked camp store, spacious and shaded campsites, variety of activities such as kayaking and hiking, availability of rentals, and the park's family-friendly...

Based on 315 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints revolve around the state of restroom and shower facilities, issues with drainage at campsites, and limited privacy at some sites. Some users also felt that the roadways within the...

Based on 315 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing bug spray due to mosquitoes, exploring the 9-lake challenge, and reserving corner sites for more space and privacy. Renting or bringing kayaks is a must for enjoying the...

Based on 315 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is described as busy during weekends, with quieter, more private experiences available during weekdays. Fall and winter months are noted for unique offerings like bird watching and...

Based on 315 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The camp store is very well stocked with everything you might need." - Nathan S. "The bathrooms and showers could use an update but they are in good working order." - Ashley Moreland. "9 small lakes...

Based on 315 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 220 offers great shade, privacy, and shelter from rain, though it has awkward tent placement. Site 346 faces the woods, providing shade but is uneven. Site 48 has a fire pit surrounded by roots,...

Based on 315 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campgrounds include handicap-accessible sites, but some reviews indicate that bathroom facilities lack accessibility features like handicap stalls.

Based on 315 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, offering dog cleanup bags. Ashley Moreland mentioned, 'Dog-friendly, dog poo cleanup bags are provided.'

Based on 315 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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Chain O Lakes State Park