Cabin camping options near Collison, Illinois sit within the hardwood forests and creek-side terrain of western Indiana, just across the state line. The area features mostly flat to gently rolling topography with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level. Winter cabin rentals typically face lows around 20°F while summer cabin stays see temperatures reaching into the 90s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trail adventures: Turkey Run State Park offers challenging trails through unique sandstone formations. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," notes Samantha S. about Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Creek exploration: Cabin visitors can access Sugar Creek for water activities directly from several campgrounds. "Sugar Creek is also great for floating with inner tubes, canoes, or kayaks," explains Joel R. Many cabins are situated within walking distance of creek access points.
Disc golf courses: Several cabin rental locations offer disc golf among their recreational amenities. "Disc golf course is awesome, in the woods, up and down ravine. 18 holes plus practice basket. Hole 1 starts by primitive sites closer to beach," reports Smeeta T. about Rockville Lake County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked ponds and creek access provide fishing options near most cabin rentals. "The pond is stocked with GIANT fish (catch and release only)," states Gretchen G. about Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental. Many cabins include exterior space for cleaning and preparing catches.
What campers like
Wooded surroundings: Many cabins feature significant tree cover providing natural shade. "We took our van and stayed at Turkey Run for a three night weekend. We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private," says Samantha S. Most wooded sites offer better privacy between cabins.
Convenience to hiking: Many cabins are positioned with direct trail access. "This state park is definitely the Gem of Indiana. There are lots of view stops along the river, the suspension bridge is super neat, and the rocks, waterfalls, and streams will have you awestruck the whole time," shares Maggie M. about Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Cabin campers appreciate well-maintained shower houses. "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," notes Samantha S. Most shower facilities require a short walk from cabin locations.
Creek-side locations: Some cabins offer direct water views and access. "We stayed in site 41 which is a double site. I'd highly recommend this site. It backs up to Sugar Creek which is just gorgeous in the spring. We saw all kinds of birds, turtles, frogs and even a couple snakes," describes Katie H. about Sugar Creek Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Cabin locations vary significantly in privacy and amenities. "If you are looking for privacy, try to get a wooded site on the outsides that back up to woods. The majority of those have a decent number of trees separating you from the site next to you," advises Samantha S.
Weekend vs. weekday stays: Occupancy patterns affect overall experience. "We really enjoyed our stay here. We arrived on Thursday on April 29th and the place was empty. The place filled up on Friday of course, and the neighbors are pretty close on the non-camp side," explains Katie H. from Sugar Creek Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Some cabins experience road noise due to proximity to highways. "If you can get a site in the back, they look really great. We had a site in the front which is right next to the highway so it was a little loud and we had no shade," warns Tabitha M. about Peaceful Waters Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit cabin areas after dark. "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything," cautions Samantha S. Many cabins require proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When choosing cabins for family stays, consider recreation options. "We were in spot 47, which was right next to the bathhouse. It had almost a whole extra campsite's worth of space next to it for my kids to run around," shares Kaley A.
Water activities for kids: Families appreciate water access from cabins during summer stays. "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows. And definitely take time to float or kayak down the river," recommends Gretchen G.
Weekday visits to avoid crowds: Families benefit from less crowded conditions. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon," suggests Samantha S. Most cabin rental facilities offer midweek discounts.
Family-friendly cabin options: Look for cabins with appropriate space for family needs. "We really enjoyed the family friendly atmosphere, and all of the extras they offer for the kids! There is a great pond for fishing, and there are lots of fish to catch!" notes Alyssa M. about Sugar Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV sites require adjustment for comfort. "The site was clean and well equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The site is very uneven. It definitely sloops to the back corner. It's was difficult to level our camper but we got it in the end," shares Michelle M.
Electric hookup configurations: Power setups vary across cabin camping areas. "The electric is shared with another site which could be a problem if you have the same type of service since there is only one 50 amp, one 30 amp, and one 20 amp service per hook up," explains Scott B. about Turkey Run Canoe & Camping.
RV-friendly cabin alternatives: Some travelers prefer their own accommodations near cabin areas. "This campground was reasonably priced, had clean facilities and quite unusual and interesting hiking nearby. No water hookups at the site but all except the 'youth sites' had 110, 30, and 50 amp power. I was able to charge my ev without issue," notes leif D.
