Trine State Recreation Area

4.00

7 reviews

Trine SRA, 450 Lane 100 Lake James, Angola, Indiana, 46703, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,096 ft

Price

$2 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Pokagon State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,096 ft

Price

$2 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Pokagon State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Trine State Recreation Area

$2.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Entrance fees range from $2 per person for pedestrians and bicycles to $9 per vehicle for out-of-state plates. Annual entrance permits are $50 for...

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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Provider

260-833-2012

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What Campers Say

4.00

Satisfactory

Based on 7 reviews

45 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews are mixed, with some highlighting well-maintained facilities, excellent staff, and serene surroundings, while others criticize inconsistent cleanliness and poor management."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Trine SRA, 450 Lane 100 Lake James, Angola, Indiana, 46703, United States

Trine State Recreation Area

Trine SRA, 450 Lane 100 Lake James, Angola, Indiana, 46703, United States

Driving directionsFrom the North: I-69 south to exit 154 (Lake James) turn left off of exit. Turn left at first light. Turn right at first road (Feather Valley Rd.). Park entrance on the right. From the South: From Exit 154 turn left, straight through red light to first right (Feather Valley Rd.) to park entrance on the right. From East or West: I-80/90 to Angola exit, South on I-69, follow from the North.

Accessible from major highways including I-69 and I-80/90. Specific entry points are clearly marked, but navigation challenges may arise at night due to rural surroundings.

Nearby places

Fort Wayne (1 hour), Toledo (1.5 hours), South Bend (1 hour 15 minutes), Lansing (1.5 hours)

Nearby supplies

Supplies available across the highway at Pokagon State Park, including groceries and camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Trine State Recreation Area

Experience the full spectrum of Midwestern seasons at Trine, where crisp winter mornings transform the landscape into a frosted wonderland, and warm summer days beckon visitors to explore sun-dappled trails. Spring and fall bring refreshing temperatures punctuated by gentle rainfall, while winter's intermittent snow creates a peaceful blanket across the recreation area. Summer's warmth brings higher humidity, creating those perfect lazy afternoons by the water, while the rest of the year offers comfortably dry conditions ideal for outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer is popular but reviews note cabin cleanliness and management issues in season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall reviews are positive; visitors note serene, well-maintained surroundings then.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Wildflower meadows 'burst with seasonal color' and trails are active in spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; crisp winter mornings and sledding mentioned, but limited facilities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly defined; summer and early fall seem popular.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: No active alerts reported in the authoritative content.

About Trine State Recreation Area

Escape to Trine State Recreation Area, where pristine cabins and thoughtfully designed shelters nestle among Indiana's rolling landscapes. This hidden sanctuary invites adventurers to explore winding hiking trails, cast lines into peaceful waters, and launch boats for serene afternoon journeys. The well-maintained multi-purpose trail system connects visitors to the heart of nature while providing the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion.

Trine State Recreation Area primarily offers cabin accommodations, along with a recreation building for events. Primitive camping and glamping options are not available.

Historical SignificanceCherished by locals as Indiana's best-kept secret, Trine State Recreation Area holds a special place in the region's outdoor heritage. This treasured landscape has served generations of Hoosiers seeking connection with nature, evolving from a regional recreation spot into a beloved destination that continues to preserve the authentic spirit of Indiana's natural beauty.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Midwestern seasons at Trine, where crisp winter mornings transform the landscape into a frosted wonderland, and warm summer days beckon visitors to explore sun-dappled trails. Spring and fall bring refreshing temperatures punctuated by gentle rainfall, while winter's intermittent snow creates a peaceful blanket across the recreation area. Summer's warmth brings higher humidity, creating those perfect lazy afternoons by the water, while the rest of the year offers comfortably dry conditions ideal for outdoor adventures.

ElevationThe recreation area's gently rolling hills create an ever-changing tapestry of vistas and intimate valleys. These moderate elevation changes add character to every trail, offering hikers rewarding climbs to scenic overlooks and cyclists enjoyable terrain that challenges without overwhelming. The varied topography ensures that each visit reveals new perspectives of this captivating landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryWander through a living canvas where wildflower meadows burst with seasonal color and ancient oaks create cathedral-like canopies overhead. The trail system weaves through this diverse ecosystem, alternating between sun-warmed grasslands and cool, shaded groves. At the water's edge, a welcoming fishing pier extends over tranquil waters, while the nearby boat dock provides gateway access to aquatic adventures. Every twist and turn of the paths reveals new natural treasures, from hidden wildflower patches to scenic water views.

Geological RegionSituated in the distinctive SPR region, Trine showcases the area's signature blend of prairie grasslands and mature oak forests. The moderately hilly terrain tells the geological story of ancient glacial movements that sculpted these gentle rises and valleys. This unique landscape creates ideal conditions for diverse recreational activities, from contemplative nature walks through flower-dotted meadows to exhilarating bike rides along the area's characteristic rolling hills.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

4PM

Check-out

11 AM

Stay Limit

Reservations up to one year in advance and required within 2 days of desired stay. No walk-in registrations allowed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy varies by cabin and cannot be exceeded. For example, Redwing accommodates up to 2 guests.

Groups

Swenson Lodge can accommodate up to 26 people and is suited for group events.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCabins are arranged by lakeside and lakeview loops. Swenson Lodge is separate, accommodating larger groups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations for Swenson Lodge handled only at Pokagon State Park. Cabins and shelters must be reserved directly.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up registrations are prohibited; all reservations must be made in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not detailed in authoritative content.

AccessibilityThe facility is handicap accessible, and the blacktopped multi-use trail is described as manageable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Site SizeCabins range in size to accommodate 2, 4, or 6 people. The Swenson Lodge has a maximum capacity of 26 people.

PrivacyThe campground is described as smaller and more private than other state recreation areas.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesTowhee and Flicker cabins recommended for guests traveling with pets. Redwing and Snipe cabins suit couples or small groups due to their studio layout. Larger families may prefer Sandpiper due to its 6-person capacity.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Trine State Recreation Area supports a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can fish, hike on various trails, bike on blacktopped paths, and enjoy boating. There are also opportunities for sledding in the winter and wildlife viewing.

HikingThe area has moderately difficult and easy trails, including the Rolling Oaks Trail, which is approximately 3 miles long and features hills, grassy paths, and flower fields. Trails can be enjoyed in both shaded and sunny areas.

FishingFishing is available at the recreation area, and user reviews highlight good fishing experiences.

BikingThe facility has a blacktopped multi-use trail suitable for biking. Additional trails are also available across the highway at the Pokagon State Recreation Area.

BoatingBoating is an activity supported at the facility, though specific details about boats or docking facilities are not provided.

Wildlife viewingOpportunities for observing wildlife are available, though no specific details about species or viewing areas are provided.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include spider webs, bugs, and cottonwood tree debris affecting cabins. Some cabins have reported musty smells and non-functioning screens.

Active AlertsNo active alerts reported in the authoritative content.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated areas; a community fire ring is available.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services including hospitals and ranger stations are located at Pokagon State Park nearby.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific details are provided about trash and recycling facilities at the campground.

Water FeaturesClose to fishing pier and boat dock.

Camp HostRanger Mark was praised for being helpful and friendly, assisting with linens and cabin logistics.

Weather at Trine State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.0

7 reviews

Satisfactory

Trine State Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with some highlighting well-maintained facilities, excellent staff, and serene surroundings, while others criticize inconsistent cleanliness and poor management.

Review Summaries

Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Cabins are described as immaculate, well-equipped, and comfortable. The park is peaceful and offers a range of activities, making it a great family getaway.

Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include lack of cabin cleanliness (e.g., spider webs, musty smells, and bugs), poor after-hours check-in service, and unresponsive management.

Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Future campers are advised to rent linens and towels for convenience and to prepare for self-cleaning before departure. Arrive early for check-in to avoid delays, and consider bringing additional...

Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive experiences are reported in the fall, with serene and well-maintained surroundings. Summer reviews are more critical, citing cleanliness issues and poor management.

Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The cabins are immaculate, equipped with kitchens, kitchen gadgets, heat, and screened-in porches." - Julie Brook. "We waited with two other families with zero response outside for over two hours."...

Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Towhee and Flicker cabins are pet-friendly and well-maintained. Snipe and Redwing are smaller studio units with pullout couches. Swenson Lodge is recommended for large groups.

Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

The blacktopped trail is described as manageable for wheelchairs and strollers, and the park is noted for its handicap accessibility.

Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Towhee and Flicker cabins are pet-friendly, but user reviews suggest that the carpets in pet-friendly cabins could use deeper cleaning.

Based on 7 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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