Shakamak State Park
Located southeast of Terre Haute, Shakamak State Park is a large area with three man-made lakes and plenty to keep the whole family active. There are over 400 acres of water here where you can go boating, swimming and fishing, but if you prefer your water a little clearer, head to the pool that also has a water slide. There are many camping options at Shakamak State Park, from group camps with electricity and plumbing that sleep up to six people to more traditional setups including 122 RV sites with electric hookups and 42 primitive tent sites. Most are located in a wooded area, so there's still abundant shade in the warm summer months. At Shakamak, you'll also find a nature center, a horse barn with escorted rides, tennis courts and ball fields.
Shakamak State Park
6265 W. St. Rd. 48
Jasonville, IN 47438
(812) 665-2158
in.gov/dnr/
Lincoln Trail State Park
Just over the Illinois border, a few miles southwest of Terre Haute, you'll find Lincoln Trail State Park, named for the route the president's family traveled from Kentucky to Illinois. There are over 1,000 acres in the park, and the wooded areas host an abundance of flora and fauna, including the American Beech Woods Nature Preserve. The Lincoln Trail Lake covers over 140 acres and offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming. There are multiple playgrounds near the picnic grounds, and there are two campgrounds that offer both full hookups for RVs and more primitive tent camping sites. To view all the park has to offer, hike the miles of the Sand Ford Nature Trail that winds through an oak and hickory forest and is home to a variety of natural habitats.
Lincoln Trail State Park
16985 E. 1350 Rd.
Marshall, IL 62441
(217) 826-2222
dnr.state.il.us
Turkey Run State Park
North of Terre Haute is Turkey Run State Park, a large destination with both pristine nature trails and more developed areas that include an inn and conference facilities. To explore the outdoors, walk some of the 14 miles of trails that take you through sandstone ravines, thick forests and steep rock walls, and by the meandering Sugar Creek. Entertain the kids at the multiple playgrounds, take them horseback riding from the on-site stables, or enjoy a game of tennis at one of several outdoor courts. There are a variety of camping options here, from over 200 full hookup sites for RVs to a youth tent camping area, but if you feel like indulging yourself, book a room or a cabin at the Turkey Run Inn, which offers an indoor pool, upscale restaurant and high-end amenities.
Turkey Run State Park
8121 E. Park Rd.
Marshall, IN 47859
(765) 597-2635
in.gov/dnr/
