Greene Sullivan State Forest spans nearly 9,000 acres of reclaimed coal mining land, featuring over 120 fishing lakes across its woodland terrain. Summer temperatures in this region typically range from 75-90°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for outdoor activities. Camping options near Dugger include both state forest sites and private campgrounds with varying degrees of accessibility from major roadways.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Greene Sullivan State Forest offers exceptional angling in its numerous lakes. "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 one camper. The lakes are stocked with various species including "bass, bluegill, crappy, redear and Airline Lake is even stocked annually with rainbow trout."
Swimming and water recreation: Shakamak State Park Campground features an "enormous pool" with "slides & everything" according to a recent visitor. For those seeking more natural swimming, Fowler County Park offers a lake beach open from noon to 6 pm daily during summer months. A reviewer mentioned, "Pretty awesome site. Parked right by the lake front. Private and quite."
Biking trails: Located near Fowler County Park, Griffin Bike Park provides excellent mountain biking opportunities. "The gentleman that happened to be working the afternoon we got there was super helpful... this park is a short four minute bike ride from Griffin Bike Park, which is an amazing mountain bike park," reports one camper. The park also features a paved trail around the lake that's "pretty smooth for a longboard glide almost all the way around."
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Many campsites at Fowler County Park are situated right on the water's edge. "Can fish right out your 'back door'. Very clean showers," reports one visitor. Another noted that the park offers "$12 primitive tent sites on water" with sandbox pads and some shaded sites.
Clean facilities: Terre Haute Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance. "The area is clean, well-managed and has the look of a nice neighborhood of campers in the trees," according to one reviewer. Another noted, "If you're active or retired military, you should call versus going online to make a reservation to get the military discount."
Pioneer village: Fowler County Park features a historical attraction. "This park also has a pioneer village and yearly activities such as vintage camping and a pancake breakfast!" shares one camper. Another visitor mentioned the "old cabins for some westworld feels" around the lake area, adding unique character to the camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited operations during off-peak months. At Hillbilly Acres Campground near Linton, facilities like the pool and camp store operate seasonally. A reviewer noted it's a "Nice get away, owners are nice and helpful. Nice camp store and a pool."
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the region experience railroad disturbances. At New Vision RV Park, one camper advises: "I also recommend not going for the back left (NE) corner. Train tracks are way too close."
Water quality issues: Some camping areas have reported water concerns. At Lakeside RV Campground, a visitor noted "Subpar bathrooms with one shower for men and two for women, very low water pressure." Another campground had water that "had a funny smell, however. But, would stay again for sure."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children visiting Cloverdale RV Park, one reviewer found "the little attractions are adorable and the host is terrific." At New Vision RV Park, a camper recommends "spot #1. It's big and borders a very nice playground."
Pool facilities: Shakamak State Park offers excellent swimming options for all ages. "The pool also had a splash area/wading pool for your smaller kiddos," notes one visitor. Another adds that the park "has slides & everything."
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature programs when available. At Shakamak State Park, "the Nature Center had a snake demonstration at 2 pm. Yesterday was planned a kayak trip by the DNR there." While hours may be limited, these activities provide valuable learning experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When RV camping near Dugger, Indiana, choosing the right site is crucial. At Shakamak State Park, a reviewer notes, "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." Another camper advises, "Most of the spaces that had both water and electric were mostly in the sun. But all the other spaces had plenty of shade and trees around them."
Level sites: Many RV campers appreciate the terrain at Shakamak State Park. "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park," reports one reviewer. This makes setup easier for larger rigs compared to other area campgrounds with uneven terrain.
Reservation tips: For popular weekends, book well in advance. "Our site was spot on level and nice area around each space to where you didn't feel like you were camped on top of other people," shares one RVer. Some campgrounds like Fowler Park operate on first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early on weekends is recommended.
