Chain O Lakes State Park
00 review2355 East 75 South, Albion, Indiana, 46701-9507, United States
Chain O Lakes State Park
$0.00 - $5.50 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Camp store sells firewood for $5.50 a bundle. No explicit fees stated for campsite reservations.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites 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.
Sites 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.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site #28 due to its slope; good corner sites provide increased privacy.
Best CampsitesCorner sites generally offer more space and privacy. Site #346 was praised for shade and proximity to woods, while site #220 offered quiet surroundings.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutWide variety of camping options including primitive, electric, and accessible sites. Some corners offer more space and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
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.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
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.
Hiking
The 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.'Fishing
Fishing 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.Swimming
A 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.Biking
The 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.'Boating
Boating 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 viewing
The 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 activities
Beach 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 Programs
Cultural 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
The park offers winter activities such as birdwatching, and Rebecca Quesenberry described a 'Christmas Carol clue hunt on Trail 5' as an enjoyable winter event.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, are widely enjoyed at the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood available at $5.50 per bundle. No specific rules about fire pits are mentioned other than complaints about dangerous configurations in user reviews.
- Quiet hours are 11 PM is observed as quiet hours, according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes 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.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations are located in Albion or Fort Wayne.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides trash and recycling facilities, but some users noted that there were limited dumpsters available, which could be inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is within walking distance of interconnected lakes ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include bathroom cleanliness, particularly sulfur-smelling water in some bathhouses, uneven or sloped campsites, and locked gates after 10 PM.
HostCampground hosts are present and provide assistance. No direct contact information was noted.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Chain O Lakes State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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Accessibility Features
The campgrounds include handicap-accessible sites, but some reviews indicate that bathroom facilities lack accessibility features like handicap stalls.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, offering dog cleanup bags. Ashley Moreland mentioned, 'Dog-friendly, dog poo cleanup bags are provided.'
Last updated August 10, 2025