Located alongside the shores of Lakes James and Snow Lake in the northeastern part of Indiana lies a 1,260-acre state park complete with hiking trails, beaches, and cross-country skiing opportunities. If you haven’t guessed by now, we’re referring to Pokagon State Park. 

If you’ve ever wanted to experience one of the most beloved state parks in Indiana, then continue reading this informative guide designed to get you ready for your first Pokagon State Park RV camping trip. You’ll learn everything you need to know for an amazing first adventure. These include the best RV parks near Pokagon State Park, the best times to visit, activities, and some tips for consideration.

Pokagon State Park Facts

Get caught up with the park’s unique history and features with these Pokagon State Park facts. 

• Pokagon State Park was initially named Lake James State Park before being changed to its current name as a tribute to the culture of the Native American Potawatomi people.
• Pokagon’s surrounding land was part of a large glacier that covered most of Indiana 10,000 to 15,000 years ago. 
• Pokagon hosts the state’s only refrigerated toboggan, which opens the day after Thanksgiving and runs until the last weekend in February.
• Pokagon also serves as a summer getaway park for those wanting to boat, fish, hike, or go horseback riding.

It doesn’t take much to appreciate the uniqueness of this destination. With these Pokagon State Park facts out of the way, it’s time to focus on selecting the best RV parks near Pokagon State Park.

Best Pokagon State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds

Want the best Pokagon State Park RV camping adventure coupled with all the essentials you need? If so, look no further than these Pokagon State Park RV parks.

Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday

Amenities: If you’re looking for an RV site with fresh country air, a laid-back atmosphere, and various outdoor activities, look no further than Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday. Visitors can select one of four stay-in options: RV sites, Deluxe Cabin Suites, Tent Sites, or Camping Cabins. Visitors can treat themselves to cable TV, drive-through dump stations, 50 amp services, and laundry facilities. 

Capacity: 395 RV sites

More Information: Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday

Miller’s Happy Acres Campground

Amenities: Come and enjoy the simplistic yet enjoyable camping atmosphere provided by Miller’s Happy Acres. Located at South 300 West Angola, Miller’s Happy Acres’ visitors can experience just about any form of entertainment that’ll elevate their camping experience. With fishing, scavenger hunts, movie nights, and more, visitors are never bored. They can also enjoy access to a heated pool, laundry facilities, hot showers, and firewood. 

Capacity: 35 RV sites

More Information: Miller’s Happy Acres Campground

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort

Amenities: There’s something that makes Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park one of the most unique Pokagon State Park RV sites: its aquatic adventure. This means that both adults and kids can enjoy all the attractions the park has to offer, including three outdoor pools, water slides, a swimming beach, and sand volleyball courts. As an added bonus, the park’s RV sites come equipped with water hookup services, fire rings, picnic tables, and 30/50 amp hookups. 

Capacity: 300 RV sites

More Information: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort

Manapogo Park

Amenities: Manapogo Park is a great selection if you’re traveling across state lines between Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois. As far as entertainment and activities, visitors can look forward to several organized activities that include dances, sports competitions, and potlucks. You also receive access to essentials to make your stay all the more pleasant, including wooded campsites, golf courses, and a 425-acre lake, just to name a few. What more can you ask for to accommodate your Pokagon State Park RV rental needs? 

Capacity: 298 RV sites

More Information: Manapogo Park

Pokagon State Park Campground

Amenities: No guide on RV parks near Pokagon State Park would be complete without mentioning the park itself. Most of the sites are electric-only. Also, keep in mind that the maximum RV length at these sites is 75 feet. Regarding recreational activities, you can explore multiple trails, fish, kayak, and try out the park’s toboggan run in the winter. 

Capacity: 273 RV sites

More Information: Pokagon State Park Campground
 

Best Time To Visit Pokagon State Park for RV Camping

Never underestimate the weather when planning a Pokagon State Park RV camping trip. Each season brings unique challenges and opportunities, so use the following information to decide on the best time to visit Pokagon State Park.

Winter

Winter brings cold temperatures coupled with slow tourism and low precipitation rates. Visitors should expect temperatures anywhere between 27 and 37 degrees Fahrenheit. That said, January has one of the lowest snowfall rates, so you won’t have to worry about dealing with blizzards. If you do decide to visit during this season, make sure to check out the park’s famous toboggan run and other winter activities. 

Spring

If you decide to embark on your first Pokagon State Park RV camping trip in the spring, you’ll most certainly deal with strong winds in April. Not to mention springtime is usually the busiest season of the year. Temperature-wise, expect an average high of 77 degrees. 

Summer

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in the water, then summertime is the best time to visit Pokagon State Park. Since tourism remains high during this season, expect higher than average costs for lodging and other accommodations. Mid-July tends to be the hottest period of the year at the park since temperatures reach 83 degrees. That said, precipitation rates fall to their lowest point during this season.

Fall

Once the autumn season approaches, tourism falls. As a park visitor, you receive the benefits of small crowds, open space, and low rates. Average daily high temperatures hover at around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure to explore the park’s hiking trails. Do keep in mind that winds remain strong in November before dropping significantly in December.

Things To Do in Pokagon State Park

Make sure to get started on the right foot for this memorable destination by exploring the best things to do in Pokagon State Park.

• Toboggan Run. It’s no surprise that the park’s most popular feature — the toboggan run — made it to the top of the list. Visitors can enjoy going down an icy track at 30 miles per hour on a slab of wood! Keep in mind that rental rates run at $13 per hour.

• Fishing. Spend some time catching multiple fish species, including bluegill, walleye, crappie, catfish, etc. Best of all, visitors do this while exploring up to 2,000 surface acres at Lake James –– one of the most popular attractions in the northeast corner of Indiana. Make sure to obtain a fishing license before grabbing your fishing rod.

• Hiking. Visitors can explore up to 13.7 miles of trails open year-round. Best of all, most of these trails fall into the easy to moderate difficulty category. Take some time to explore the Bluebird Hills Trails, a large loop trail that takes you through an open meadow and colorful wildflowers.

• Cross-Country Skiing. The toboggan run is not the only activity Pokagon visitors can look forward to during the winter — there’s cross-country skiing too! Check out the novice trail, which provides a variety of terrain and is well-suited for beginners. For something more advanced and adventurous, check out the advanced-rugged loop. Keep in mind that all skiers must depart from the trails 30 minutes before sunset.

• Swimming. Enjoy the pleasantry of the summer weather by taking a dip at either Lake James or Snow Lake. It’s a sure way to keep the whole family engaged while making heartfelt memories. Keep in mind that these lakes are also open to those looking to fish and use their boats. 

One does not need to search hard when looking for things to do in Pokagon State Park.  

Tips for Visiting Pokagon State Park

Before going over your RV rental Pokagon State Park needs, review these essential tips to ensure a memorable first adventure.

• Make sure you bring gloves for tobogganing to protect yourself against the wooden fences alongside you.
• Speaking of tobogganing, it’s not recommended to let young children toboggan by themselves unless they can carry the sled on their own.
• Avoid direct contact with blue-green algae in the park’s lakes during the summer.
• Do not use any of the lake’s water for drinking, cooking, or bathing.
• Remember that pets must remain on leashes no longer than six feet.

  By considering these guidelines for your first Pokagon State Park RV camping trip, you’ll set yourself up to make the most out of your adventure!

RV Rental for Pokagon State Park

Now that you’re caught up with all the essential information you need for Pokagon State Park, it’s time to turn your attention towards selecting a proper RV. 

With Cruise America, you’ll receive access to multiple RV rental vehicles equipped with self-contained amenities to accommodate your comfort levels and travel needs. 

That means there’s no need to worry about your RV rental Pokagon State Park needs, so contact us today to get yourself set up. It’s time to hit the road!