Greene Sullivan State Forest offers cabin rentals with year-round availability and effective heating systems for cold weather camping. The forest spans nearly 9,000 acres of reclaimed coal mining land, creating a unique landscape with approximately 120 lakes throughout the property. Located in southwestern Indiana, the area provides forest cabins with varying levels of amenities ranging from rustic accommodations to those with electric service.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Greene Sullivan State Forest features dozens of fishing lakes stocked with bass, bluegill, crappie and redear. "This is truly a fisherman paradise…but don't overlook the many other opportunities for mushroom hunting, hiking, horse riding, nature photography and enjoying the wildlife," notes a review from Narrow Lake Campground.
Swimming at Shakamak: The pool at Shakamak State Park Campground provides a recreational alternative to lake activities. "The pool is wonderful and many trails to explore," shares one visitor. Another notes, "The paddle boats were fun! The pool was only opened on the weekends in August which was disappointing but there was a large fishing dock and many boating opportunities."
Biking trails: For those staying near Terre Haute, multiple parks offer biking opportunities. At Fowler County Park, "This park is a short four minute bike ride from Griffin Bike Park, which is an amazing mountain bike park." The trails connect to other outdoor recreation areas.
What Campers Like
Lake access: Many cabin rental options in the region provide direct access to lakes. Sullivan County Park receives positive feedback for its lake amenities: "It is an awesome place to go for a family outing. They have all kinds of camping sites, a huge lake that can support all sizes of family boating. A beach for swimming. Pets are welcome."
Shaded sites: Forested campsites provide relief during summer months. At Shakamak State Park, "The campsites are in a heavily wooded area with fantastic tree canopy for shade and comfort. Sites are mostly level gravel pads ranging from primitive to 30 amp electric, 50 amp electric or a limited number of full hookup."
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the maintenance quality of bathroom facilities. One camper at Shakamak stated, "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web. Kudos to the park employees & camp hosts!"
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: For cabin rentals near Dugger, early planning is essential, especially for prime months. At some parks like Hardin Ridge, "If you want to reserve a site, I highly suggest you do it very early in the season, especially if you are including a weekend."
Wildlife encounters: Secure food properly as raccoons and other wildlife are active. "We did have several nighttime visits from a couple large raccoon families, but it became a game for the kids as they watched for them," shared one family at Shakamak State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many cabins near Dugger, Indiana have limited connectivity. At Greene Sullivan State Forest, connectivity varies by location. Other nearby options like Hardin Ridge report, "Verizon as a cell phone carrier and only had one bar."
Tips for Camping with Families
Cabin alternatives: When weather conditions change unexpectedly, having cabin options provides flexibility. A family at Greene Sullivan State Forest shared, "We originally planned to tent camp the first weekend in October but with 30 degree temps and children, we decided to check out the cabins at Greene Sullivan. They did not disappoint. Heat was phenomenal."
Playgrounds: Multiple recreation areas feature playgrounds for children. Hawthorn County Park offers "fishing, archery, bike riding, canoe/kayak dock, and lots of very nice trails for hiking/running."
Beach access: For families looking for water recreation beyond fishing, several parks offer beach access. At Fowler County Park, there's a "beach open 12-6. Also have a Pioneer Village and nice playgrounds. Great place for fishing, picnicking, canoeing/kayaking."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For those seeking cabins with utilities, several options exist. At Shakamak State Park, "Sites are mostly level gravel pads ranging from primitive to 30 amp electric, 50 amp electric or a limited number of full hookup; water, sewer and 50 amp service sites plus plenty of clean bath houses."
Extension cords: When staying at cabins with electric service, come prepared. A visitor recommends, "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."
Dump stations: For extended stays, knowing waste disposal options is important. Narrow Lake campground in Greene Sullivan State Forest provides "potable water available in all three areas with and a dump station located at Narrow Lake."
