Greene-Sullivan State Forest
00 review2551 S State Road 159, Dugger, Indiana, 47848, United States
Greene-Sullivan State Forest
$0.00 - $200.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee information is incomplete; user reviews highlight a dramatic increase in winter camping fees, with Michael Benninghoff stating, 'They raised their winter camping rates almost 200% in one year.'
About this campground
Hidden among Indiana's rolling countryside, Greene-Sullivan State Forest beckons adventurers with nearly 9,000 acres of pristine woodland and an astounding 120 sparkling lakes. Since its founding in 1936, this tranquil retreat has evolved into a beloved destination where anglers cast lines into mirror-still waters, hunters track game through dense forests, and families create lasting memories around crackling campfires. As visitor J M aptly notes, this truly is 'one of Indiana's hidden gems' – a place where the hustle of modern life fades into the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant call of wildlife.
Greene-Sullivan State Forest offers a mix of camping accommodations, including primitive campsites, RV camping, and cabins. User reviews emphasize the cabins, with both praise and complaints about their condition and location.
Historical SignificanceBorn from an extraordinary act of conservation in 1936, Greene-Sullivan State Forest emerged when forward-thinking coal companies donated their land to preserve Indiana's natural heritage. This transformation from industrial grounds to protected wilderness represents a pivotal moment in the state's environmental history. Today, the forest serves as a cultural anchor for the region, with nearby communities celebrating their heritage through vibrant events like the Linton Freedom Festival and the historic Dugger Coal Festival, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Indiana traditions.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Greene-Sullivan in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the forest into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a crisp 25°F and occasional dustings of snow creating picture-perfect scenes. As spring awakens the woodland, summer arrives in full glory – warm days climbing above 80°F invite swimmers to cool off in the lakes, while an impressive 77% of days feature brilliant blue skies perfect for outdoor adventures. The humid summer air carries the scent of wildflowers and pine, creating an authentic Midwestern forest experience.
ElevationThe gently undulating terrain creates natural vantage points throughout the forest, offering varied perspectives of this woodland paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine wandering through a landscape where 120 lakes sparkle like scattered jewels among rolling hills draped in dense forest. Greene-Sullivan's diverse ecosystem creates endless opportunities for discovery – from photographing morning mist rising off glassy lake surfaces to spotting deer grazing in secluded meadows. Visitors consistently marvel at the forest's pristine condition, with Tim Murdock simply calling it 'beautiful' and Sharda` Butler painting a picture of serenity: 'very clean, peaceful, quiet, and just beautiful.' Whether you're an avid angler seeking the perfect fishing spot or a nature photographer chasing golden hour light filtering through the canopy, this forest delivers unforgettable moments.
Geological RegionNestled within Indiana's characteristic rolling hills, Greene-Sullivan State Forest showcases a remarkable geological tapestry where ancient coal deposits gave way to thriving ecosystems. The 9,000-acre expanse tells a story of transformation – from its coal mining heritage to today's stunning mosaic of woodland and water. This unique convergence of 120 lakes within forested hills creates diverse habitats and microclimates, making the forest a geological wonder where terrestrial and aquatic environments seamlessly blend into one magnificent natural playground.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the provided information.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not specified in the provided information.
Sites PrivacySeveral reviews indicate cabins are close to roads and to each other, impacting privacy levels. One user mentions, 'Cabins are close to the road but little traffic most of the time.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring an air mattress for cabins as noted by J M: 'NO mattresses on the beds.' Cabins are close to the road, leading to traffic noise issues.
Best CampsitesCabins 16 & 18 noted as great by Christina Biggs. Timothy West stayed at cabin C14 but no further details provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 p.m.
Check-out
12:00 noon
Stay Limit
Stay limit unspecified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to five people per rent-a-camp cabin.
Groups
No specific group site information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCabins located close to roads and lakes, with issues noted in reviews about proximity to traffic noise and safety.
Open and Closed SeasonNo explicit open/closed season details are provided.
Reservation PlatformsNo details on reservation platforms provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo details on walk-up/first-come-first-served availability provided.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy details are provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Greene-Sullivan State Forest offers a variety of activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The forest's 120 lakes make it a prime location for fishing enthusiasts. User reviews frequently highlight the abundance of trails, the peacefulness of the setting, and the opportunity to view the Milky Way at night. As one review states, 'A great place to go day or night but during the night during certain months, the sky reveals its secrets. The Milky Way Galaxy can be viewed in all its majesticness, from many locations throughout the strip pit lakes!'
Hiking
Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels (moderate and difficult) are available, as indicated in the amenities list. User reviews also praise the quality of the trails, with one reviewer stating, 'Good hiking trails, cabins, primitive campsites, all sorts of wonderful and amazing things out there!'Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Greene-Sullivan State Forest, with over 120 lakes providing ample opportunities. One review remarks, 'lots of fun times fishing here.' Another user highlights both the fishing experience and some concerns: 'A great place to camp and fish.'Swimming
Swimming is available within 10 miles, but specific details about designated swimming areas or facilities are not provided.Boating
Boating is supported, with amenities like a boat ramp and canoeing options available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, with the area described as having 'lots of trails and... a beautiful area' for observing natural surroundings.Winter Activities
No specific details about winter activities are provided, but one user mentions camping in winter and notes the lack of running water and showers during this season.Water Sports
Water sports like canoeing and boating are available, as mentioned in the amenities description.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies are provided.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsUser Eric Lambert notes safety issues: 'Watch out for used condoms while you're out fishing.' Some lakes had unsafe high walls, but improvements were mentioned in reviews.
Active alertsActive alerts include construction noise, with Brad Williams commenting on heavy construction and noise issues: 'They know about the issue when I make my reservations and should have informed me.'
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available within 10 miles, including a hospital.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available as listed in the amenities description.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near 120 lakes inside the forest. User J M mentions lake improvements: 'Redone Narrow Lake to remove the unsafe high walls.'
Common complaintsNoise complaints are common, with Brad Williams and Alexis Kuhne citing construction and loud music. Alexis noted, 'Loud rap music blasting constantly. DNR said it's acceptable until 10 p.m.'
HostNo explicit host details provided.
Campground Map
2551 S State Road 159, Dugger, Indiana, 47848, United States
Driving directionsFROM THE NORTH: TAKE I-70 WEST TO US 41, TAKE US 41 SOUTH TO STATE ROAD 54, TAKE STATE ROAD 54 EAST TO DUGGER, TURN SOUTH ONTO STATE ROAD 159, TRAVEL SOUTH 2 MILES TO OFFICE. FROM THE SOUTH: TAKE I-64 WEST TO I-69, TAKE I-69 NORTH TO STATE ROAD 58, TAKE STATE ROAD 58 WEST TO STATE ROAD 59, TAKE STATE ROAD 59 NORTH TO STATE ROAD 54, TAKE STATE ROAD 54 WEST TO DUGGER, TURN SOUTH ONTO STATE ROAD 159, TRAVEL SOUTH 2 MILES TO OFFICE.
Access to Greene-Sullivan State Forest is primarily via paved roads. The directions provided indicate state highways and interstates, suggesting good accessibility year-round. However, no notable challenges such as seasonal closures or rough terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area (6 miles), Minnehaha Fish and Wildlife Area (6 miles), Hillenbrand Fish and Wildlife Area (6 miles), Shakamak State Park (16 miles), Sullivan Lake (9 miles), Terre Haute (30 miles), Bloomington (45 miles), Vincennes (36 miles), Indianapolis (80 miles), Evansville (85 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies within 10 miles include grocery stores, firewood, fuel, and camping essentials like retail ice and propane.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Greene-Sullivan State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with praise for the natural beauty, fishing, and hiking opportunities, as well as complaints about noise, cabin conditions, and proximity to roads. "Beautiful property, great service, peaceful and relaxing," notes one user. Meanwhile, another states, "My big issue was NOISE! ... my cabin was so close to a major road."
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Common praises include the beauty of the area, the abundance of trails, and the quality fishing opportunities. Cabins are noted by some as clean and comfortable. One user calls it 'one of Indiana's...
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Common Concerns
Noise from nearby roads and construction, lack of mattresses in cabins, and issues with heating are commonly mentioned. Some users also report litter ('watch out for used condoms while you're out...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own heater and mattresses if staying in cabins. Be prepared for potential noise from nearby roads. Check conditions ahead of time, especially regarding construction.
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is less favorable due to the lack of running water and showers. Spring and summer receive more positive reviews for hiking, fishing, and stargazing opportunities.
Camper Quotes
- 'The Milky Way Galaxy can be viewed in all its majesticness, from many locations throughout the strip pit lakes!'
- 'The cabin was very nice clean and could accommodate five people easily.'
- 'Lots...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Cabins 16 and 18 are described as 'great cabins,' while Cabin C14 is also mentioned. Specific complaints about road noise and proximity for some cabins are noted.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pets or pet policies.
Last updated August 10, 2025