Dugger, Indiana sits at the heart of the reclaimed coal mining region in southwest Indiana, where over 120 lakes dot the nearly 9,000-acre landscape of Greene-Sullivan State Forest. The elevation ranges from 480-600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures often reaching the upper 80s with high humidity. The area experiences significant tick activity during summer months, requiring regular checks after outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Shakamak State Park Campground features three beautiful lakes spanning approximately 400 acres known for excellent fishing. "This is a fishing park. Boating with electric motors, so a quiet lake. Fishing was fair according to my fishing guy," reports Cynthia K. The park provides dedicated fishing piers for campers.
Swimming options: Unlike many camping areas, Shakamak offers a large swimming pool rather than a beach. "There's no beach, but they have an enormous pool. It has slides & everything," notes Cynthia K. The pool includes "a splash area/wading pool for your smaller kiddos," according to DevinandKalah H.
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking trails weave through the reclaimed mining landscape. "There's 7 hiking trails. All are nice walks in the woods. All were muddy in sections. There's an old coal mine on Trail 2. Blocked off for safety," shares Cynthia K. The trails offer moderate difficulty suitable for most hikers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently ranks high among visitor feedback. "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!" reports Cynthia K. from Shakamak State Park.
Level camping sites: Prairie Creek offers "spacious camp site at a good price" according to Anna O. At Shakamak State Park, "the sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park," notes Cynthia K., making setup easier for all campers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The wooded camping areas provide habitat for various wildlife species. Prairie Creek has "lots of trees and wild life with hiking trails. Nice little pond to fish or watch the geese," mentions Anna O. The natural setting creates opportunities for wildlife observation during morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Train and traffic noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Narrow Lake Campground, Don N. reports they "did not like it due to its proximity to a highway. Additionally, the electric sites near the lake (P1-P3) were unlevel." Shakamak State Park also has "some train noise" according to one reviewer.
Variable site quality: Campsite conditions and amenities vary significantly between locations. At Narrow Lake, "the electric sites near the lake (P1-P3) were unlevel," notes Don N. Visitors should research specific site numbers before booking to ensure appropriate accommodations for their camping equipment.
Water conditions: Many lakes in the area develop seasonal issues. At Fowler County Park, one camper noted the "lake is actually a large pond, 10 ft deep that is stocked every 2 years" but warned about "MOSS EVERYWHERE!" affecting fishing quality. Research current water conditions before planning water-based activities.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: When weather turns challenging, cabins provide comfortable alternatives to tents. At Greene Sullivan State Forest, Lerin P. shares: "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."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Fowler's Park, Cami R. notes: "Our family loves this park. There is plenty to do or not do. Lake is great for fishing, also the beach is very nice. Pioneer village is so neat to walk around."
Swimming options: The large pool at Shakamak State Park provides family-friendly water recreation. Lauren E. found that "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."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Electric hookups at some sites require planning for optimal setup. At Shakamak State Park, one reviewer advises: "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." This ensures comfort while maintaining desired orientation.
Site selection for large rigs: Terre Haute Campground accommodates larger RVs but requires careful navigation. "Some of the other sites in this CG, not so much, so look up and watch your turn into the pull-throughs," warns MickandKarla W. They recommend checking for low-hanging branches when selecting sites.
Full hookup availability: For RVers seeking complete amenities, Shakamak State Park now offers expanded services. John S. notes: "Nice we have full hookup now. We will be back. Very close to home." The park provides a mix of electric-only and full hookup sites to accommodate different camping preferences.
