Cabin options near Ferdinand include standard and deluxe accommodations within the forested hills of southern Indiana. With elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet, the region offers wooded terrain surrounding cabin sites at Lincoln State Park, Happy Hollow Homestead, and several private resorts. Winter cabin camping typically sees temperatures between 20-40°F, while summer cabin stays experience 70-90°F temperatures.
What to do
Cave exploration: 15-minute drive to Marengo Cave for underground tours. A visitor noted, "They have two different parts to explore. The dripslide caverns and the crystal palace cavern. There are extra activities for the kids such as mining and a nice gift shop for any rock lover out there."
Hoosier National Forest hiking: Access Two Rivers Trail from Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground for a 15-mile trek connecting Celina and Indian Lakes. "We spent our time hiking on the Interpretive Trail (1mi) near Celina Lake and Two Rivers Trail which encompasses both Celina and Indian Lake. You can disperse camp for $5 a night as long as you are 300 ft from the trail," shared one reviewer.
Creek activities: Wade in streams at Sycamore Springs Park where cabin sites offer creek access. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores, fresh black topped roads, and such friendly staff," mentioned a camper about their experience.
What campers like
Private wooded cabin settings: Happy Hollow Homestead offers secluded cabin options with natural surroundings. "We were all impressed with the land and how spaced out the camp sites were. The kids loved the tire swing and tree web. We will definitely be coming back!" wrote one visitor.
Full-service cabin convenience: Complete kitchen setups make cabin stays easier at some locations. "We stayed in a tent camp site. Having electric and water was nice. The bathrooms near 119K were personal bathrooms with a shower, toilet, and sink. So much better than a community bathroom," noted a camper about their Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph experience.
Historical connections: Cabins at Lincoln State Park provide proximity to Abraham Lincoln heritage sites. "Great campgound with nice wide spots... This park has the Lincoln boyhood memorial that is a must see," shared a visitor describing the historical significance of the area.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most cabins have limited availability from April through October with reduced services in shoulder seasons. A Hoosier National Forest visitor mentioned, "We timed this one Right! Found Hoosier National Forest website wasn't available, we arrived seeking 1st come 1st served... and got it!"
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some cabins offer private facilities while others require use of communal bathhouses. At Marengo Cave Campgrounds, "Bath house was heated, extremely clean with flush toilets, and continual hot water. City water access in the middle of the campsite."
Cell service limitations: Some cabin areas have limited connectivity. A Happy Hollow camper reported, "There is no cell service but it was so nice to 'unplug' and enjoy talking with each other and making new friends."
Campground entrance conditions: Access roads to some cabin sites require careful navigation. "We were nervous about bottoming in the dry creek bed on way to Walnut Grove area, but no problem. Great stay. 20' Ford Transit ModVan. One bar with cell booster," noted a Happy Hollow visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Scales Lake Park cabins offer access to multiple play areas. "Two playgrounds, little petting zoo for kids. Beach area with small fee. Full hook up sites," shared a visitor.
Free family activities: Some cabin locations include complimentary recreation. According to a Sycamore Springs visitor, "This campground has firewood nearby each camp sight, lots of rest rooms and shelter houses, as well as beautifully maintained parks and play areas. There are multiple hiking areas and a pond to fish in."
Theme park accommodations: Families visiting Holiday World can stay in nearby cabins. One camper mentioned about Scales Lake Park, "Very peaceful with a small trolling only lake and swimming area," providing an alternative to busier theme park-adjacent options.
Kids' program scheduling: Check special event calendars when booking. "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!" noted a Lake Rudolph visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Cabin and RV pads at some locations need adjustment. A Lake Rudolph visitor observed, "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However we only got the spot because at the others were sold out. Many of the other Spots were on hills and right on top of each other."
Limited maneuvering space: Some cabin areas have tight turning radiuses. A Scales Lake camper warned, "We had 3 RVs in our group and we camped in one of the 'wagon wheels'. It was a very cool experience. 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."
Electrical hookup quality: Check amperage before booking if bringing an RV alongside cabin guests. A Scales Lake visitor mentioned, "The only thing I wish that would have been better, is the electrical hookups could probably be updated."
