Shakamak State Park

The lake may be manmade at Shakamak State Park in Indiana, but the fun is totally natural! Head to this outdoor destination any time of the year to escape the craziness of everyday life. Looking around at this peaceful haven, you'll be hardpressed to imagine that the area was once a coal mine!

If you're looking to camp here, you'll get to choose from hundreds of campsites, most of which offer electric hookups with several also providing water and sewer. There are cabins and cottages at this park as well, although none of them allow our furry pals inside. For those that visit during the summer months, hot showers are available for use, as is a small camp store where you can stock up on supplies.

You'll have to purchase a parking permit to enter the park, but only one day's fee is charged to campers, coming in at $7 for those native to Indiana and $9 for everyone else. If you walk into the facility, expect to pay $2 per person. Camping fees start at $10 a night for a basic site during the off-season and go up to $40 for a full hookup lot in the summer months.

You'll have not one, not two, but three lakes to explore while you're here. These bodies of water are the perfect place to relax, as boats are limited to electric motors while out on the waves. You can bring your own watercraft or rent one inside the park to get out on the water and cast a few lines into the depths. Who knows? You might even catch yourself some dinner! 

There are seven different trails that go through this park, with some being simple and a few being a bit more of a challenge. You and your pupper will love how tranquil it is out on these paths, as it's not unusual to trek your whole hike without seeing another camper.

Canine visitors will have to stay on-leash during their trip, and they are not permitted inside buildings or at the swimming area. As long as you keep your furry friend on their best behavior and you clean up any waste they leave behind, you shouldn't have any trouble while you're here.

For a peaceful trip to the woods, be sure to check out Shakamak State Park!