Cabin camping near Carlisle, Indiana offers year-round accommodations across multiple state parks and forests within a 35-mile radius. The region features reclaimed mining lands with over 120 fishing lakes throughout Greene-Sullivan State Forest. Winter temperatures can drop to the 20s, making heated cabin options particularly valuable during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Greene-Sullivan State Forest contains nearly 9000 acres of woodlands and approximately 120 lakes. "This is a really interesting State Forest property evolving from a reclamation project of donated land from various coal companies. Now encompassing nearly 9000 acres of woodlands and what it's best known for, some 120 lakes providing some of the best fishing in the state," notes a visitor to Narrow Lake Campground — Greene Sullivan State Forest.
Swimming and water activities: During summer months, several parks offer swimming facilities. At Shakamak State Park Campground, "They have an enormous pool. It has slides & everything," according to one camper. For those preferring natural water, Sullivan County Park provides lake swimming with a beach area.
Hiking trails: The region offers various hiking difficulties on established trails. Fox Ridge State Park Campground features unique terrain compared to surrounding areas. "The hiking trails are some of the best in the state because the glaciers dropped off mountains of soil in the area where this park is located. The surrounding farm land is flat as can be, but the forested hills and creek beds in the park are almost mountainous."
What campers like
Lake access from campsites: Many cabins and sites provide direct water access for fishing. At Sullivan County Park, "Camping spots are spacious but fill up quickly for the season. Boating, fishing, and lake swimming/beach area are great." The proximity to water is a major draw for visitors seeking cabin accommodations.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their bathroom facilities regularly despite many being vault toilets rather than full plumbing. At Ouabache Trails County Park, "The shower facilities/restroom were very good. Grounds are well-maintained." This attention to cleanliness enhances the cabin camping experience.
Quiet atmosphere: The rural setting provides peaceful environments for cabin stays. Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area receives praise for its tranquility: "This campground was very peaceful and quiet. Only half the sites were occupied when we stayed. We caught some nice sized Bass on the lake which made for a yummy dinner."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many cabins book quickly, especially during peak fishing season. For Sullivan County Park, campers note that "camping spots are spacious but fill up quickly for the season." Advance reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays from April through October.
Cabin amenities vary significantly: While all cabins offer basic shelter, amenities differ between locations. At Greene-Sullivan, one visitor explained their experience: "We rented a primitive cabin and it had the bare minimum. Fishing areas are plentiful here."
Cell service limitations: Reception varies throughout the region. One camper at Shakamak State Park noted: "One downside was we had Verizon as a cell phone carrier and only had one bar." Plan accordingly if you need reliable communication during your cabin stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children between fishing or hiking activities. At Fowler County Park, families appreciate that "there is a nice beach. Also have a Pioneer Village and nice playgrounds." These amenities provide alternative entertainment for children.
Swimming options: During summer, swimming facilities provide family recreation. According to a visitor at Shakamak State Park, "The pool was only opened on the weekends in August which was disappointing but there was a large fishing dock and many boating opportunities."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programming during peak seasons. A visitor to Shakamak noted, "Today, the Nature Center had a snake demonstration at 2 pm. Yesterday was planned a kayak trip by the DNR there."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: At cabin sites with electric access, outlet placement may require additional cords. A camper at Shakamak advised: "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit - the electric box is in an awkward place."
Winter preparedness: For winter cabin camping, the heating systems vary in effectiveness. Greene-Sullivan State Forest cabins receive positive feedback for cold-weather camping: "Heat was phenomenal" according to a visitor who changed plans from tent camping when temperatures dropped to 30 degrees.
Site selection considerations: When booking cabins near lakes, understand that vegetation may block views. At Shakamak, one camper shared: "We had a site by the lake, but there was no lake view & there was a steep incline to get down to the water."
