Camp Ames

Hey there, fellow Hoosiers! Are you on the hunt for a truly special camping spot where tranquility meets warm hospitality? Look no further than Camp Ames, a delightful little campground nestled right along the scenic Mississinewa River in Peru, Indiana. This charming destination is quickly becoming a favorite among local campers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the everyday. Known for its gorgeous river views, top-notch facilities, and incredibly friendly hosts, Camp Ames offers a unique and relaxing experience for RVers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water, explore the abundant wildlife, or simply enjoy a quiet moment under the Indiana sky, Camp Ames provides the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure. Get ready to discover a place where you'll feel right at home and eager to return!

Camp Ames is conveniently located at 3383 Mississinewa Rd, Peru, IN 46970, USA. This prime address places it along the picturesque Mississinewa River, just a short drive from the city of Peru in north-central Indiana. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for Indiana residents. For instance, if you're traveling from Indianapolis, you can expect a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable distance for a weekend getaway. From Fort Wayne, the journey is similarly straightforward, typically around an hour's drive. The campground's location off main routes ensures a peaceful setting while still being easy to find. The roads leading to Camp Ames are generally well-maintained, accommodating various vehicle types, including large RVs. Furthermore, its proximity to the Mississinewa Reservoir (just 3 miles away, as noted by the hosts) means campers have easy access to even more extensive recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to hiking within a larger state recreation area. This blend of serene riverside charm and convenient access to regional attractions makes Camp Ames an ideal spot for your next Indiana camping trip.

Camp Ames prides itself on offering a comfortable and convenient camping experience, particularly for RVers. As highlighted by reviews and host information, their services are designed to ensure a hassle-free stay:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: All sites at Camp Ames come equipped with electrical (50/30/110 amp), water, and sewage hookups. This is a major convenience, especially for extended stays, allowing campers to enjoy all the comforts of home.
• Boondockers Welcome Host: Camp Ames is recognized as a "Boondockers Welcome" site, offering amenities like hookups to members of this network. This indicates a commitment to hospitality and well-equipped sites.
• Potable Water: Guests have access to potable water at their sites, essential for drinking and other needs.
• Electrical Hookups: Both 50-amp and 30-amp electrical service are available, catering to a wide range of RVs and ensuring reliable power.
• Private Camp Shack: Site #3 is uniquely positioned beside a "Camp Shack" building, which offers additional privacy and comfort, appointed with a picnic table and a TV to catch up on news.
• Fire Pits (Upon Request): Raised fire pits can be provided upon request, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires safely.
• Riverfront Access and Benches: Campsites are located very close to the Mississinewa River, with some sites offering benches for enjoying the view and fishing.
• Wi-Fi Availability: While cell service can be spotty in the area, Wi-Fi is available, allowing guests to stay connected.
• Bathroom Facilities: A bathroom is available on-site, with hosts requesting guests to clean up after use and bring their own towels.
• Personalized Site Assignment: The hosts typically assign your site before arrival, ensuring a smooth check-in process.

Camp Ames offers several charming features and highlights that consistently receive praise from visitors, making it a standout choice for campers in Indiana:

• Exceptional Hosts: Wayde and Beth A. are frequently lauded as "exceptional hosts" and "really friendly owners." Their welcoming demeanor and helpfulness contribute significantly to the positive camping experience, making guests feel like cherished visitors rather than just customers.
• Stunning Riverfront Location: The campground is beautifully situated "along the river," offering "great views" of the Mississinewa River. This serene setting provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and enjoyment of nature.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Campers describe it as a "peaceful, quiet place to visit" and "a gorgeous little spot along the river," perfect for unwinding away from the hustle and bustle.
• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching: The area is known for its wildlife, particularly "bald eagles," which are a "huge attraction." The hosts even have a 4-acre wildflower meadow that attracts numerous butterflies and birds during the summer, creating excellent opportunities for nature observation.
• Well-Maintained Full Hookup Sites: Guests report "no problems with hookups or water," indicating that the electrical, water, and sewer services are reliable and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable RV experience.
• Proximity to Mississinewa Reservoir: Located just 3 miles from the Mississinewa Reservoir, campers at Camp Ames have easy access to additional recreational activities like swimming, boating, and fishing on the larger lake.
• "Over Friendly" Camp Cat: As noted in one review, the hosts' cat is "a little over friendly and kept trying to get in our trailer." While this might be a quirky highlight for some, it adds to the unique, homely charm of the campground.
• Opportunity for Repeat Visits: The high praise and positive experiences lead many visitors to declare they "will definitely visit again," a strong testament to the campground's appeal.

As a private campground, particularly one that operates as a Boondockers Welcome host, Camp Ames's "promotions" are often embedded in its pricing structure and the value it provides, rather than traditional advertised discounts. However, interested campers should be aware of the following:

• Boondockers Welcome Membership Benefit: For members of Boondockers Welcome, Camp Ames offers the significant benefit of providing full hookups (water, electric, sewer) – a feature not always available at typical Boondockers Welcome locations. While Boondockers Welcome itself is a membership program, the inclusion of hookups at Camp Ames enhances the value for those members.
• Consistent Pricing: Information suggests a consistent rate (e.g., $50 for 4 guests per night for specific sites), which can offer predictability for budgeting your trip.
• First Night Facility Fee: Some booking platforms mention a "first night facility fee" upon arrival (e.g., $15), which is important to factor into your initial cost.
• Payment Flexibility: Hosts accept various payment methods like Cash, Zelle, or Venmo, offering convenience for guests.
• Value for Amenities: The provision of full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a generally peaceful and scenic environment at the stated rate represents strong value for campers seeking comfort and tranquility in a private setting.

For the most current pricing, specific site availability, and any potential special arrangements, it is always recommended to contact Camp Ames directly. Hosts of private campgrounds often have flexibility and can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates and any specific offerings they may have.

Ready to experience the tranquility and warm hospitality of Camp Ames? For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about this charming riverside campground, here's how you can get in touch:

• Address: 3383 Mississinewa Rd, Peru, IN 46970, USA
• Phone: While a primary public phone number isn't consistently listed across all platforms for Camp Ames itself, for inquiries about booking or specifics, it's best to connect with the hosts Wayde & Beth A. through the platform you discovered them on (e.g., Hipcamp, Boondockers Welcome if you are a member). Some sources indicate a phone number associated with Beth A. (765) 473-2578, which may be for Zelle payments. This number should be used for contact.

Given that Camp Ames is a private campground hosted by individuals, direct communication via booking platforms or the provided contact number is the most effective way to secure your stay and get any specific questions answered. The hosts are known for being responsive and helpful, ensuring a smooth planning process for your visit.

For Indiana locals, Camp Ames represents an ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and natural beauty, making it a perfect choice for your next camping adventure. Its location along the Mississinewa River in Peru provides a peaceful, accessible escape without requiring extensive travel, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the outdoors. What truly sets Camp Ames apart, and why it's so suitable for Hoosiers, is the personalized and welcoming experience offered by its "exceptional hosts." This isn't a vast, impersonal commercial park; it's a "gorgeous little spot" where you feel genuinely cared for, creating a truly relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The availability of full hookups is a significant advantage for those with RVs, ensuring a comfortable stay with all the necessary amenities. Whether you're seeking a serene weekend of birdwatching and fishing, a base for exploring the nearby Mississinewa Reservoir, or simply a quiet place to unwind, Camp Ames delivers. It offers that rare combination of natural tranquility and genuine hospitality, inviting you to return again and again to create cherished memories right here in the heart of Indiana.