Camping options near Jasonville, Indiana range from state forests to county parks within the southwestern coal mining region of the state. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate that creates distinct camping seasons. Summers can reach into the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures in the 60s-70s that most campers prefer.
What to do
Boating opportunities: At Shakamak State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy non-motorized and electric-motor boating on three connected lakes. "There's three beautiful lakes there that are good for boating and fishing. There is a large pool too with a nature center that has limited hours," notes one camper, who also mentioned "Today, the Nature Center had a snake demonstration at 2 pm. Yesterday was planned a kayak trip by the DNR there."
Biking trails: The area offers excellent cycling options, particularly near Fowler County Park. "This park is a short four minute bike ride from Griffin Bike Park, which is an amazing mountain bike park," reports one visitor. Another camper adds that "Tarmac pretty smooth for a longboard glide almost all the way around the lake."
Historical exploration: Several parks feature historic areas to visit. "There is a colonial village and covered bridge on the north end of the lake," notes a visitor about Sullivan County Park. At Fowler Park, another camper highlighted "a Pioneer Village and nice playgrounds" that add historical interest to camping trips.
What campers like
Fishing access: The Narrow Lake Campground in Greene Sullivan State Forest offers exceptional fishing opportunities across its many lakes. One camper explains, "There are many lake with good fishing, most of which have boat ramps (small boats). Great for kayaking and canoeing." Another notes that "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."
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept bathhouses and grounds. A visitor to Terre Haute Campground noted, "The restroom and shower house was clean. There is a dump station located at the exit of the park." Another camper was particularly impressed with "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web."
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds offer unique wildlife viewing or animal interactions. "The goats and donkeys were a pleasant addition," writes one camper about Terre Haute Campground. Another visitor noted "We woke this morning at 8 to donkeys braying which was cool."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds have different booking policies. At Lieber State Recreation Area Campground, sites can be reserved ahead of time, especially important during busy periods. A visitor to Greene Sullivan State Forest explained, "Narrow Lake campground is easily accessible via IN-159 and offers 15 year-round cabins and several camping sites with electric service with reservations available on Reserve America. Sites on Wampler Lake and Reservoir 26 are all class c and offered as first come–first serve basis."
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "One downside was we had Verizon as a cell phone carrier and only had one bar," reported a Shakamak visitor. Another camper at Lieber noted "ZERO cell phone coverage" at their site.
Access roads: The quality of roads into campgrounds varies significantly. At Greene Sullivan State Forest, a camper warned "Scout ahead to determine your comfort level as most of these sites are not conducive to larger campers and the gravel access roads are sometimes washboard."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Prairie Creek and several other area campgrounds offer swimming areas. At Lieber State Recreation Area, one family suggested "Skip the lake and enjoy the pool" which they described as "excellent!" A camper at Fowler County Park noted "the beach is very nice" and another mentioned "Beach open 12-6."
Playgrounds and activities: Many campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. "Lots of trees and wild life with hiking trails. Nice little pond to fish or watch the geese," writes a Prairie Creek visitor. At Fowler's Park, a family shared "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."
Security considerations: Some campgrounds maintain strict rules for families. One camper noted "There is a gentleman that rides a golf cart that is security until 11. He will frequently be by your site to check on people. The gates close at 11. No visitors after 11 and you are to be in the campground by then."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most of the best places to camp near Jasonville provide relatively level pads. A visitor to Shakamak State Park appreciated that "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park." Another RVer confirmed "Our space 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."
Extension cords: Electrical hookup placement can be challenging at some sites. "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," advises a Shakamak visitor.
Tree clearance: Watch for low branches when pulling into sites. At Terre Haute Campground, one RVer cautioned "For site 47, watch the tree to the right as you turn in as we brushed our awning," while another noted "some of the trees were not trimmed and the roads where narrow and would rub against our RV."
