Linton, Indiana sits within Greene County in southwestern Indiana, approximately 85 miles southwest of Indianapolis. The area features gently rolling terrain with multiple lakes, reclaimed coal mining land, and elevations around 500-600 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Shakamak State Park offers a dedicated fishing pier exclusively for campers. "This campground has a beautiful fishing pier just for campers," notes Cynthia K. about Shakamak State Park Campground.
Swimming options: When temperatures climb in summer, the aquatic center at Shakamak provides relief. "The pool is wonderful and many trails to explore," mentions Josh S., while another camper adds that the park has "an enormous pool. It has slides & everything."
Trail exploration: Greene-Sullivan State Forest offers numerous hiking paths through reclaimed mining land. According to Stephen & Theresa B. at Narrow Lake Campground, the area encompasses "nearly 9000 acres of woodlands and what it's best known for, some 120 lakes providing some of the best fishing in the state."
Wildlife observation: The surrounding forests and waterways support diverse wildlife. "The lakes are rich with bass, bluegill, crappy, redear and Airline Lake is even stocked annually with rainbow trout," details a reviewer about Greene-Sullivan State Forest.
What Campers Like
Level campsites: Many campers appreciate the terrain at Shakamak State Park. Lisa M. emphasizes that "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."
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers mention the cleanliness of the bathhouses at Sullivan County Park. Sarah S. notes, "The bath houses have vault toilets. Many weekends they have live music and/or activities for the family. Local officers patrol the area during busy weekends."
Waterfront options: Campers enjoy lake access at several campgrounds. According to Barry B., "Sullivan Lake is an awesome place to go for a family outing. They have all kinds of camping sites, a huge lake that can support all sizes of family boating."
Cabin alternatives: For those without tents or RVs, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. Lerin P. writes about Greene-Sullivan State Forest: "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."
What You Should Know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience periodic train noise. As one Shakamak visitor mentions, "There's some train noise," though this doesn't appear to significantly impact most campers' experiences.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the area. Lisa M. notes about Shakamak, "One downside was we had Verizon as a cell phone carrier and only had one bar."
Seasonal considerations: Facilities and availability change throughout the year. The Fowler County Park operates from "May 1 to Oct 15" according to its information, with one visitor noting, "The Nature Center was inexplicably closed 'for the season'. Disappointing!"
Site spacing: Campsite proximity varies between locations. At Fowler County Park, Laura C. observed, "Primitive and camper sites available first come, first serve. $12 primitive tent sites on water. Kinda close together and some are shaded."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: When camping with children, consider sites near play areas. At Terre Haute Campground, Randy E. recommends, "If you have kids I recommend spot #1. It's big and borders a very nice playground."
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist for family recreation. DevinandKalah H. mentions Shakamak has "a really nice pool with water slides and diving board. The pool also had a splash area/wading pool for your smaller kiddos."
Evening programming: Some parks offer organized activities. Ginger T. describes Shakamak's special events: "We had a special pancake breakfast by the Friends of Shakamak- all you can eat! That was a treat! In spite of the rain, we enjoyed the sights and sounds of nature and camping with the family."
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds accommodate pets but have specific rules. While Hillbilly Acres Campground is noted as pet-friendly with 25 sites, Butch M. describes it as a "Nice get away, owners are nice and helpful. Nice camp store and a pool."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: At some sites, utility connections may require additional equipment. Tom B. recommends for Ouabache Trails County Park: "Make sure you have an extension for your 30/50 AMP, and one for your water as well."
Tree clearance: Watch for overhead branches when maneuvering larger rigs. MickandKarla W. advises about Terre Haute Campground: "As we've stayed here before, we liked this site as there are trees but they won't get in the way of parking maneuvers. Some of the other sites in this CG, not so much, so look up and watch your turn into the pull-throughs."
Full-hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some locations. About West Boggs Park, one reviewer noted, "If you are wanting sewer, this park is very limited for 45' Motorhomes. The available sites with sewer are all back in that are not very level."
Electric box placement: Consider utility locations when positioning your RV. At Shakamak, Cynthia K. 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."
Guide
