Lincoln State Park and surrounding campgrounds provide cabin camping options within a 25-mile radius of Chrisney, Indiana. Located in the rolling hills of southern Indiana at approximately 400 feet elevation, this area experiences mild springs and falls with humid summers reaching 90°F. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making cabin accommodations popular year-round for visitors seeking comfort while exploring the region's outdoor attractions.
What to do
Lake activities: fishing and boating: At Scales Lake Park, visitors can enjoy fishing and non-motorized boating. "There is a boat ramp for fishing boats and kayaks," notes Jennifer T. The lake has designated swimming areas with additional amenities. "Fishing allowed... Lake has a small beach for swimming, slide with its own catch pool separate."
Hiking trails: varied terrain: Hoosier National Forest offers multiple trail systems connecting lake areas. "We spent our time hiking on the Interpretive Trail (1mi) near Celina Lake and Two Rivers Trail (15 mi) which encompasses both Celina and Indian Lake," shares one visitor. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to challenging 15-mile systems connecting multiple water features.
Holiday World access: theme park: Many cabin campers use accommodations near Chrisney as a base for visiting Holiday World in Santa Claus. "We got to the park shortly after it opened... we had about an hour in the main park before Splashin' Safari opened," reports a camper describing their visit from Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. The park features three wooden coasters and water attractions.
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Sycamore Springs Park receives consistent praise for its child-oriented facilities. "Playgrounds everywhere. Nice big sites with full hookups in the newer section," writes Beth H. Another visitor adds, "You have numerous playgrounds, the bathrooms are never far away, and they have multiple shelter houses."
Quieter alternatives: For those seeking less crowded cabin options, Miles Landing Campground provides a more peaceful setting. "It was a smaller camp ground but that made it very quiet. The sites were very spacious and far enough apart that you had room to spread out," reports Jacinda L. This campground balances accessibility with tranquility.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers highlight bathroom cleanliness across campgrounds. "The bathrooms were probably the cleanest, nicest shower houses I've seen at a campground," notes a Miles Landing visitor. At Lincoln State Park, "Bathhouses are kept clean and staff is friendly," confirming consistent maintenance standards throughout the region.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities operate on limited schedules outside summer months. Facilities reduce hours after Labor Day, with some closing entirely from November through March. Winter cabin options remain available at Lincoln State Park and select private campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential, especially during peak season. Book cabins 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends, particularly when Holiday World operates at capacity. Most parks use reservation systems with 2-night minimum stays during peak periods.
Wildlife awareness: Tick prevention requires special attention in wooded cabin areas. "Take your bug spray or you may be nothing but a dried out husk by the end of your visit, ticks are horrible right now!" warns a visitor at Warrick County Park. Cabin campers should bring insect repellent and perform tick checks after outdoor activities.
Tips for camping with families
Petting zoo access: Multiple campgrounds feature animal encounters for children. "There is a small petting zoo at the park and in the morning they let the animals out to feed on the grass. So expect to see them in the campground," notes Keith P. about Warrick County Park. These interactions provide educational opportunities beyond standard outdoor activities.
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming areas with controlled depths accommodate various age groups. "There is a boat ramp for fishing boats and kayaks... a beautiful lake front for swimming with water slide and diving boards," mentions a Scales Lake visitor, highlighting water recreation options suitable for different swimming abilities.
Halloween events: Fall cabin rentals coincide with special seasonal activities. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day!" shares Ashley D. These themed weekends typically run from mid-September through October.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "Very nice park, electric sites. There are 30 & 50 Amp sites with water at each site!" notes Cynthia K. about Lincoln State Park. Campers requiring specific amperage should confirm availability when reserving.
Site spacing considerations: Privacy levels differ significantly between locations. "The RV sites are kinda cramped. We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake," advises Laura D. about Scales Lake Park. Those seeking more separation between cabins and RVs should research site maps before booking.
