Camping at ORCHARD SHORE EAST SHELTER
Location and Access
Orchard Shore East Shelter is located within Potato Creek State Park, a recreational area offering a wide range of outdoor activities, located in north-central Indiana, about 12 miles southwest of the city of South Bend.
Facilities
The shelter itself provides basic amenities to enhance the camping or day-use experience. Typically, these facilities would include:
- Picnic tables
- Grills for barbecuing
- Nearby restrooms
- Availability of water supply
- Possible electric hookups (this would need to be verified with the park)
Activities and Attractions
Potato Creek State Park surrounding the shelter offers a number of activities:
- Hiking trails: Ranging from easy to moderate difficulty levels, these trails take visitors through diverse landscapes.
- Biking paths: Paved and off-road biking trails are available.
- Fishing and boating: A 327-acre lake, called Worster Lake, allows for fishing and provides boat rentals.
- Nature Center: Offers educational programs and exhibits on the park's natural history.
- Swimming: There is a swimming beach near the lake during warmer months.
- Horseback Riding: Designated trails are available for those who bring horses.
Camping
While Orchard Shore East Shelter is more likely a day-use facility, Potato Creek State Park has several camping options:
- Family Campground: Offers sites with electric hookups and access to modern restrooms.
- Youth Tent Areas: These are available for organized youth groups.
- Cabins: For those looking for a more comfortable stay, the park has cabin rentals.
Reservations and Fees
- Reservation System: To use Orchard Shore East Shelter, it's recommended to reserve it in advance, particularly during busy summer months. Reservations can usually be made online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources reservation system or by calling the park.
- Shelter Fees: There may be a rental fee for using the shelter, and this can vary based on the size of the group and the duration of use.
Regulations and Safety
- Park Rules: Visitors are expected to follow the park's rules, which include maintaining cleanliness, respecting wildlife, and observing quiet hours.
- Safety: As with any natural area, be prepared for encounters with wildlife and variable weather conditions. Always have a first-aid kit and be aware of the park's emergency procedures.
- Pets: Pets are often allowed in state parks but need to be kept on a leash and are not permitted in certain areas, such as swimming beaches.
Contact and Additional Information
To get the most up-to-date information, you should contact the park directly:
- Phone Number: The park office typically has a contact number for inquiries and reservations.
- Website: Information is typically available through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources' official website, which provides details on shelters, facilities, activities, and alerts on trail closures or weather advisories.
It's essential to check the latest updates and regulations with Potato Creek State Park before planning your visit, as conditions and available amenities may change.
