Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area offers cabin accommodations open year-round within driving distance of Greencastle, Indiana. Located in west-central Indiana where the terrain features rolling hills and deciduous forest, the region experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 75°F to 85°F with moderate humidity, making cabin rentals particularly popular during peak season.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Sugar Creek runs through several camping areas near Greencastle and provides water recreation opportunities. "We rented a canoe from a canoe place right down the road from the campground. It was great and once we saw the crowds at the beach area of the park on Saturday afternoon, we were super glad we had been canoeing all day instead of fighting crowds at the park," notes a visitor to Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: The hiking trails near cabin accommodations range from easy to challenging. "Trail 3 was nothing special but was relatively flat. Trail 10 was very busy but people were respectful. We hiked the #3 and #5 trails and it took us about 2 hours," mentions a camper at Turkey Run State Park. Many trails connect directly to cabin areas, allowing easy access without driving.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and waterways offer fishing near cabin rentals. "The pond is stocked with GIANT fish (catch and release only)," says a visitor at Sugar Creek Campground, adding "We fished in the ponds and my husband caught a bass, and I caught a catfish." Most cabin locations have fishing spots within walking distance.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Some cabins offer more private settings than others. "We took our van and stayed at Turkey Run for a three night weekend. We were in a wooded section and it was pretty private however our site was pretty sloped. Next time I would probably pick the site on either side of 167," shares a reviewer at Turkey Run State Park.
Clean facilities: Many cabin areas maintain high standards of cleanliness. At Rockville Lake County Park, a visitor notes, "The campground is very well maintained. Great fishing with nice fish cleaning station. Nice bathhouse and clean. Three playgrounds for the kids." These amenities enhance the cabin camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: Cabin locations often provide opportunities to see local wildlife. "We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect. Lots of wildlife, so pack your food up right," mentions a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area. Another visitor at Sugar Creek Campground states, "It backs up to Sugar Creek which is just gorgeous in the spring. We saw all kinds of birds, turtles, frogs and even a couple snakes."
What you should know
Raccoon precautions: Several cabin areas report active raccoon populations. "Be prepared for the Raccoons and tons of fun! Beautiful lake with several nearby places to rent boats," warns a camper at Cecil M Harden Lake. Another adds, "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything."
Site unevenness: Many cabin and camping sites have terrain challenges. A visitor at Turkey Run Canoe & Camping observes, "The site was clean and well equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The site is very uneven. It definitely slopes to the back corner."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely across cabin locations. "No cell service but who needs it!" remarks a visitor about Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area. Cabins at Turkey Run State Park have mixed reception with one camper noting, "I have AT&T service and had no problem with cell service, my husband has Verizon and his was spotty."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking cabins with children, consider proximity to play areas. "There is a playground located in middle of loop and accessible/visible from any of sites on loop area," notes a visitor at Rockville Lake County Park, which has "three playgrounds for kids."
Water activities for children: Peaceful Waters Campground offers family-friendly water options near their cabins. "The pond seems to be well maintained and clean! Kids loved the playground and all the activities," shares a family. At Sugar Creek Campground, "The creek is awesome for catching tadpoles and minnows. And definitely take time to float or kayak down the river."
Weekend planning: Cabin areas become significantly busier on weekends. "We arrived on Thursday on April 29th and the place was empty. I would advise to camp during the week for a less crowded time," recommends a Sugar Creek Campground visitor. Another notes, "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For those bringing RVs to cabin areas, site selection is crucial. "Great place to camp, can be flooded at times, some of the sites have huge inclines or declines, a lot of sites reserved way in advance. There is a few pull throughs, no water hook ups at site," advises an RVer at Cecil M Harden Lake.
Utility considerations: Electrical hookups at some locations have limitations. A visitor at Turkey Run Canoe & Camping explains, "The electric is shared with another site which could be a problem if you have the same type of service since there is only one 50 amp, one 30 amp, and one 20 amp service per hook up."
Water availability: Water access varies across locations. "There is portable water at the entrance but the road coming and going to the campsite is only wide enough for one rig and you will block traffic while you are filling up," cautions a camper at Turkey Run Canoe & Camping. Planning ahead for water needs is essential for cabin and RV campers alike.
