Turkey Run State Park and Cecil M Harden Lake provide multiple camping options spread across nearly 2,500 acres of western Indiana forest. Campsites sit between 600-700 feet elevation with limestone ravines dominating the landscape. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with highest occupancy from May through October when temperatures average 70-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Trail hiking with creek immersion: Turkey Run State Park features challenging ravine trails that require water crossings. "We hiked Trail 3 with our dog, but we cut off early before the ladders using Trail 10. Our dog did pretty well in the section of Trail 3 before the ladders, and be prepared to get wet," notes Samantha S. from Turkey Run State Park Campground.
Water recreation on multiple lakes: Cecil M Harden Lake spans 2,060 acres with fishing and boating areas. "This place is so beautiful! We stayed in the hideaway loop and it was perfect. Lots of wildlife, so pack your food up right. The hiking trails were pretty, not very rugged," shares Stacey S. from Cecil M Harden Lake Raccoon State Recreation Area.
Creek tubing and canoeing: Sugar Creek offers water recreation through local outfitters. "We had fun tubing in sugar creek through Clements Canoes. It was August so the river was kinda low and we had to stand up and walk a few times," reports Joe K., adding that "Raccoons will show up at night so pack up your snacks."
What campers like
Wooded privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between campsites. "Get a wooded site...try to get a wooded site on the outsides that back up to woods. The majority of those have a decent number of trees separating you from the site next to you," advises Samantha S. about Turkey Run.
Clean, modern facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards for comfort. "The bathrooms were super clean and the showers were hot with good water pressure," reports Samantha S. Similarly, at Rockville Lake County Park, Carey R. notes the "Newer restroom/showerhouse well kept."
Level campsite options: Finding flat terrain can be important for comfortable camping. At Shakamak State Park, one reviewer emphasized, "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park, but there you go."
What you should know
Site-specific considerations: Many campsites have particular features to consider before booking. At Turkey Run Canoe & Camping, Scott B. warns, "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."
Wildlife management required: Wildlife encounters are common in the area. "Watch out for the raccoons. Those guys are not afraid of anything," cautions Samantha S. about Turkey Run.
Water access varies: Not all lakeside sites provide direct water access. One camper noted about Shakamak State Park, "We had a site by the lake, but there was no lake view & there was a steep incline to get down to the water."
Tips for camping with families
Morning scheduling for best experiences: Avoid peak times on popular trails by planning ahead. "In order to avoid crowds on the trails, we got there Thursday night so we could hike Friday morning/early afternoon," suggests Samantha S.
Multiple playground options: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rental LLC, Amy Y. reports, "The park is great, they offer disc golf, Gaga, and other fun activities."
Swimming alternatives to lakes: Some campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural swimming areas. At Shakamak State Park, DevinandKalah H. mentions, "a really nice pool with water slides and diving board. The pool also had a splash area/wading pool for your smaller kiddos."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord necessities: Power hookup placement can be inconvenient at some sites. One camper advises about Shakamak State Park, "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."
Site leveling challenges: Many glamping sites near Rockville, Indiana require preparation for uneven terrain. At Hawthorn County Park, JD N. observed sites being "Small, dirty and unkept," though opinions vary widely about this location.
Limited full hookup availability: Complete RV services aren't universally available. At Charlarose Campground, Pam M. noted, "There were only 2 sites that were full hookups big enough for our 5th wheel," indicating advanced reservations are essential for luxury glamping experiences in larger units.
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