Cabin camping near Chandler, Indiana offers shaded accommodations in a region known for its rolling terrain and seasonal weather patterns. The area sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 70-90°F and high humidity. Fall camping months bring cooler temperatures and colorful foliage changes to the hardwood forests surrounding most cabin locations.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: At Scales Lake Park, campers can enjoy lake swimming with enhanced features. "The lake front for swimming with water slide and diving boards. There is a boat ramp for fishing boats and kayaks," notes Jennifer T. The park maintains a beach area for swimming during summer months.
Hiking opportunities: Trail systems throughout the region provide various difficulty levels for hikers. At Harmonie State Park, visitors find "paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails." Dave C. mentions that the park is "very clean and is kept that way by Host campers," making it ideal for day hikes from cabin accommodations.
Go-karts and recreation: Some resorts offer mechanical recreation options beyond standard outdoor activities. At Diamond Lake Resort, families can enjoy motorized fun. "We camped here and enjoyed our time fishing and going on the go carts. It was also nice to ride the golf cart around the park to get around," reports Megan W.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campers appreciate locations with space between sites. At Miles Landing Campground, Jacinda L. reports, "The sites were very spacious and far enough apart that you had room to spread out." This contrasts with more densely arranged properties in the region.
Clean facilities: Shower and restroom cleanliness ranks high among visitor preferences. According to Jacinda L., Miles Landing offers "probably the cleanest, nicest shower houses I've seen at a campground." Clean facilities make cabin camping more comfortable, especially for rustic cabins without private bathrooms.
Fishing access: Multiple properties feature fishing opportunities. Lake Lincoln Campground provides lake fishing, while Miles Landing offers "great access to fishing" according to Wendy T., who also notes it's "fairly new with great access to fishing. Bike riding enjoying nature."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate seasonally. Tom B. reports that at Lake Lincoln, "Lake is being drained, so no beach until 2026." Always check current operational status before booking.
Reservation requirements: Popular cabin properties fill quickly, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Some properties require booking far in advance for special events, as Nichole M. notes about Harmonie State Park: "Apparently that weekend has to be reserved the day reservations open for it."
Space limitations: Cabin and campsite proximity varies significantly between properties. Stefanie W. observed at Scales Lake, "The sites are very close together, so when the campsites are full you don't feel like you have much privacy or personal space."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Several campgrounds offer special Halloween activities. Harmonie State Park features "a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot" and "a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire," according to Nichole M.
Children's activities: Many properties provide dedicated recreational spaces for younger visitors. Jessica D. notes that Diamond Lake Resort Campground offers "Two playgrounds, little petting zoo for kids. Beach area with small fee. Full hook up sites."
Pool options: Swimming pools provide alternatives to lake swimming. Olivia S. describes Harmonie State Park as having an "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Some properties feature unusual site arrangements that affect entry and exit. Dan H. warns about Scales Lake Park: "I'm not sure how you could get in or out if all the spots were reserved. It took a collaborative effort when it was time to pull out. The 'front' camper had to pull out first before the second could get hitched up."
Local attractions: Many cabin campers use accommodations as bases for visiting nearby attractions. Keith M. notes that Pine Hills Group Camp & Cottages is "Close to Hoilday World. Awesome trails. Stop in at Jenk's Pizza in Dale for dinner. This park has the Lincoln boyhood memorial that is a must see."
Road access limitations: Some properties have challenging access roads. Olivia S. reports about Scales Lake: "The streets in the town are extremely narrow, making it hard to get into the park." RVers should research approach routes carefully before arrival.
