Shakamak State Park - Image 1
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Shakamak State Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Jasonville, United States

Shakamak State Park offers three fishing lakes, wooded campsites, a seasonal nature center, and a pool for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather for hiking

CrowdLow
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Shakamak State Park - Image 1

Shakamak State Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather for hiking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Shakamak State Park offers three fishing lakes, wooded campsites, a seasonal nature center, and a pool for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"This is a wonderful & beautiful park. ALL the staff are friendly & helpful."

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TIP

Friendly Park Staff

Expect helpful and friendly staff throughout the park. They are a great resource for information! :wave:

RV Friendly Sites

Many sites offer full hookups, making it great for RVs. Book ahead for these popular spots! :motorhome:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Three Sparkling Lakes

Three Sparkling Lakes

Lake Shakamak, Lake Kickapoo, Lake Lenape

Perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking adventures. Enjoy the serene waters and scenic views.

Wooded Campsites

Wooded Campsites

Campgrounds

Spacious and well-kept sites offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Options for electric and full hookups available.

Seasonal Nature Center & Pool

Seasonal Nature Center & Pool

Nature Center, Pool Area

Engage with local flora and fauna at the nature center, or cool off at the refreshing seasonal pool.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Shakamak State Park offers three lakes for fishing and boating, plus wooded campsites and a seasonal pool. Plan for outdoor activities and pack accordingly. Remember to check the seasonal nature center hours.

Campsite Comforts

Campsites are generally well-maintained and spacious, with options for electric-only and full hookups. Book in advance, especially for full hookup sites, as they are popular. Rangers patrol regularly.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Mild weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cool off at the pool
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fun day out at shakamak state park
@tyler.richardson16
29 likes • 487 views

Friendly Park Staff

Expect helpful and friendly staff throughout the park. They are a great resource for information! :wave:

RV Friendly Sites

Many sites offer full hookups, making it great for RVs. Book ahead for these popular spots! :motorhome:

Let’s make yummy Shakam Paa with Bhutan Cuisine 🥰🥰🥰 🎊For next level customer service, do visit us "🎊. Enjoy the Bhutanese delicacy’s 😍 . We are open for weekend lunch in Perth and Brisbane🙌 ✅All of our Foods are MSG Free🥰 Follow us for more updates✌️ 📓For reservation 🍽️ please contact us through 👇👇 https://www.bhutancuisine.com.au ☎️ 0480 638 945 : Brisbane ☎️ 0421 822 678 : Perth ✉️ hello@bhutan...
@bhutancuisineperth
147 likes • 7.1K views

Trail Maintenance

While generally well-maintained, some trails may need attention. Be mindful of potential hazards. :hiking_boot:

On-Site Essentials

Ice and firewood are available for purchase on-site, convenient for campers. :fire:

Tips

from all over the internet

Friendly Park Staff

Expect helpful and friendly staff throughout the park. They are a great resource for information! :wave:

RV Friendly Sites

Many sites offer full hookups, making it great for RVs. Book ahead for these popular spots! :motorhome:

Trail Maintenance

While generally well-maintained, some trails may need attention. Be mindful of potential hazards. :hiking_boot:

On-Site Essentials

Ice and firewood are available for purchase on-site, convenient for campers. :fire:

Clean Facilities

Restrooms are reported to be clean and well-maintained. :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Shakamak State Park for its friendly staff, clean facilities, and spacious campsites, making it a wonderful and beautiful park for camping and family visits. While the natural beauty and outdoor activities are highlights, some hiking trails could benefit from more consistent maintenance.

"We ride our recumbent tandem trike around the park 3 - 5 times a week. ALL the staff are friendly & helpful. The facilities are ALL great. We have had family camp here several times & it has always been a good experience. Other family members live close & hike the trails weekly. This is a wonderful & beautiful park."

David McFadden

"Nice level sites. Several full hook up. Great for RVs. Campground Office was closed during the time we were there. Park Rangers drove around routinely. As in all Indiana State Parks, there is a day use fee. Lots of trails. We will be back."

Mitzi Baker

"This was my first time visiting this park. I was pleasantly surprised at how nice this park was. It is very clean, trails were maintained and well marked. It is very spacious and organized. The campsites were very nice and large. I plan on visiting again. The staff was super friendly."

Angela Estep

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Clean and spacious campsites
Beautiful lake scenery

What People Dislike

Trail maintenance needs attention

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shakamak State Park is located in Jasonville, Indiana. You can use GPS coordinates or follow signs from nearby highways. Many visitors find it easily accessible by car. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to Shakamak State Park are limited. It is best accessed by personal vehicle. Reddit

Directions will vary based on your starting point. It's recommended to use a GPS or mapping service for the most accurate routes from cities like Indianapolis or Terre Haute. Reddit

The park has a main entrance where you can pay the day-use fee. Rangers also patrol the park, so you may encounter them on various roads. Reddit

The park has a road system connecting the main attractions, lakes, and campgrounds. Maps are usually available at the campground office or entrance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, like most Indiana State Parks, Shakamak State Park has a day-use fee per vehicle. This fee helps maintain the park's facilities and natural beauty. Reddit

The park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk for day-use visitors. Campground hours and nature center hours may vary seasonally. Reddit

Yes, firewood and ice are available for purchase on-site at the park, which is very convenient for campers. Reddit

It is highly recommended to reserve campsites in advance, especially for full hookup sites and during peak season or weekends, as they can fill up quickly. Reddit

Information on discounts or passes for Indiana State Parks can typically be found on the official Indiana DNR website. Annual passes may be available for frequent visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Activities include fishing, boating, kayaking on the three lakes, hiking on various trails, swimming (seasonal pool), and camping. Reddit

Trails are generally well-marked, but some may require maintenance, such as clearing fallen trees or repairing bridge boards. Always exercise caution. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a family-oriented park with camping, swimming, and plenty of space for outdoor fun. Reddit

The park offers spacious campsites with options for electric-only and full hookups. Restrooms are clean and accessible. Reddit+1

Information on boat or kayak rentals is not consistently mentioned, so it's best to check with the park directly or bring your own equipment. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants mentioned within the park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or cooking at campsites. Reddit

Nearby towns like Jasonville will have local diners and fast-food options. It's advisable to pack your own meals for convenience. Reddit

Yes, picnic areas are available, and it's a popular activity for day visitors. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Most campsites are equipped with fire rings and/or grills, perfect for cooking meals outdoors. Reddit

Simple, easy-to-cook meals are best for camping. Think hot dogs, burgers, foil packet meals, and pre-made salads. Don't forget s'mores! Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lakes offer beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The wooded areas and campsites provide rustic charm. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing wildlife and landscapes. A wide-angle lens is great for expansive lake views. Reddit

Capture the tranquility of the lakes, the rustic beauty of the campsites, and any wildlife you might encounter. The seasonal nature center might offer unique subjects. Reddit

Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide the best natural light for landscape and wildlife photography. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. Check the Indiana DNR regulations for Shakamak State Park before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shakamak State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The spacious campsites and seasonal pool offer plenty of fun for children. The lakes provide opportunities for safe fishing and boating adventures, and the generally well-marked trails are suitable for family hikes. Reddit+1

Parents will appreciate the clean facilities and the friendly park staff. Bringing along games, bikes, and fishing gear will enhance the family experience. The availability of on-site ice and firewood adds to the convenience for family camping trips. Reddit

🏕️ Campers & RVers

For campers and RVers, Shakamak State Park offers a welcoming environment. The park features campsites with electric hookups and a limited number of full hookup sites, which are ideal for RVs. These sites are often described as nice and large, providing ample space. Reddit+1

Campground staff are friendly and helpful, and park rangers conduct regular patrols, adding to a sense of security. The convenience of purchasing ice and firewood on-site is a significant plus for those settling in for a longer stay. Booking full hookup sites well in advance is crucial due to their popularity. Reddit+1

🎣 Anglers & Boaters

The three lakes at Shakamak State Park are a major draw for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Lake Shakamak, Lake Kickapoo, and Lake Lenape are stocked with various fish species, offering a good chance for a catch. Boaters can enjoy cruising the waters, and kayakers and canoeists can explore the shorelines. Reddit

Remember to check the Indiana fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before your trip. While specific rental information isn't readily available, bringing your own kayaks or canoes is a great way to experience the lakes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Lakes

Shakamak State Park is renowned for its three picturesque lakes: Lake Shakamak, Lake Kickapoo, and Lake Lenape. These bodies of water are central to the park's appeal, offering ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Anglers can try their luck for bass, bluegill, and crappie, while boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises across the water. Kayakers and canoeists will find the calm waters ideal for exploring shorelines and enjoying the natural scenery. Remember to check park regulations regarding boating permits and fishing licenses. Reddit

The lakes also provide stunning backdrops for photography and relaxation. Whether you're casting a line, paddling a kayak, or simply enjoying the view from the shore, the lakes are a highlight of any visit to Shakamak State Park. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Reddit

Camping Experience

The camping experience at Shakamak State Park is a major draw for visitors. The park features spacious and well-maintained campsites, many nestled within wooded areas, offering a sense of privacy and immersion in nature. Options range from electric-only sites to those with full hookups, catering to various camping styles, including RVs. Reddit+1

Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, including restrooms. The park also offers a shelter house, which can be reserved for gatherings and events, making it suitable for family reunions or group outings. Firewood and ice are conveniently available for purchase on-site, simplifying preparations for a comfortable camping trip. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for full hookup sites, as they are in high demand. Reddit+1

Trail Adventures

Shakamak State Park boasts a network of hiking trails that wind through its wooded landscapes and around its lakes. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty and provide opportunities to explore the park's natural beauty, observe wildlife, and enjoy fresh air. Trail 4, for instance, offers a scenic route but has been noted for needing some maintenance, including clearing fallen trees and repairing bridge sections. Reddit

While the trails are generally well-marked, visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings and exercise caution, especially after inclement weather. The trails are perfect for a morning stroll, an afternoon hike, or even a more vigorous trek. They are a key part of the outdoor recreation offered, allowing visitors to connect with the park's environment on foot. Reddit

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