Cagles Mill Lake sits about 40 miles southwest of Spencer, Indiana at an elevation of approximately 640 feet. The lake spans 1,400 acres and connects to multiple camping areas with glamping options available April through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity levels making water recreation particularly appealing.
What to do
Hike through wooded terrain: Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers primitive camping and yurt accommodations with direct access to hiking trails. "This campground is decent if you get one of the few good spots. Many sites are small and can only accommodate a tent. Has water and vault toilets," notes one visitor about the Oak Ridge Camping Area.
Fishing and paddling: Cagles Mill Lake provides multiple water recreation options with boat rentals available. "Really fun place had a relaxed time," reports one camper. Another visitor mentions, "This wonderful hidden gem is 14 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park. It is a DNR state operated and has some pretty cool fishing."
Swimming and water activities: The aquatic recreation options extend beyond natural water bodies at several glamping locations near Spencer. One camper at Shakamak State Park Campground explains, "The pool was only opened on the weekends in August which was disappointing but there was a large fishing dock and many boating opportunities."
What campers like
Level campsites: Several campgrounds in the Spencer area offer relatively flat sites, which campers consistently appreciate. "The sites are all flat—ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park, but there you go," states a visitor about Shakamak State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses in the area. A visitor to Cloverdale RV Park notes, "The bathrooms are AMAZING (no…seriously)." Another camper reports, "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web."
Multiple lake access points: The region offers several options for water recreation across multiple lakes. A visitor to Turkey Run State Park states, "There are multiple trails and some quite challenging ones. No water hookups at the site but all except the 'youth sites' had 110, 30, and 50 amp power."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While most glamping facilities operate April through October, some offer extended seasons. At Turkey Run State Park Campground, "All sites are electric at Turkey Run. $23 per night. The campground is located in a mature tree woods, so some sites are not as level as others."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers report wildlife sightings, particularly at night. "We had several nighttime visits from a couple large raccoon families, but it became a game for the kids as they watched for them," mentions a visitor at Shakamak State Park.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. A camper at Morgan-Monroe State Forest notes, "I do not know if this type of thing is common occurrence at this property, or if we 'lucked out' that night. The rest of the folks camping there were quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe provides extensive water recreation specifically designed for children. "It is definitely for kids. They have a huge splash park, wading pool for toddlers, and a 4 foot pool besides tons of interactive activities for kids," explains one visitor.
Age-appropriate facilities: Many glamping sites near Spencer cater to specific age groups. A camper notes, "Nice family campground overall, but really geared toward the 8 and under crowd. Had a back in gravel site that was difficult to back into and sloped back."
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer nature activities and programs for younger visitors. At Shakamak State Park, one camper enjoyed 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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some glamping and RV sites require additional equipment to achieve proper leveling. One camper at Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe shares, "I had to nearly lower my tongue to the ground to get it level."
Hookup placements: At several campgrounds, hookup placements may present challenges. A visitor to Lake Monroe Village notes, "We keep our camper here full-time. Close to Lake Monroe. Nice pool. Great people."
Extension cord needs: Electrical outlets are sometimes positioned inconveniently at certain 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 camper at Shakamak State Park.
