There are a number of options for walking in Shakamak, with trails both on paved roads and paths. Unusually for state parks, the trails are numbered and not named, but offer interesting forest and lakeside hiking for all experience levels.
Trail 1 is almost four miles long and covers the northern part of the park. Leave the car near the Shakamak State Park cabins, and follow the well-marked trail along the shoreline. This trail offers some of the best places in the area to watch the birds who live along the shore.
This is a shorter trail which leads off Trail 1 but offers a different walking experience. Head off into the oak forest, and pass the abandoned coal mine before the trail joins back with the Trail 1 near the campsite.
Another woodland trail, this shorter 1.4-mile trail is perfect for nature enthusiasts. It winds through oak woods along the shore of Lake Lenape, and if you're lucky, you might spot some shy white-tailed deer.
Shakamak State Park combines the chance for total family relaxation, with the option of enjoying more active pursuits at your leisure. Make the most of your time in the park by booking hotels near Shakamak State Park in Terre Haute or Bloomington and see how much you can squeeze into your family stay.
One of the most popular activities in Shakamak, the three lakes are well-stocked with bass, panfish, and bluegill. During the summer, get out on the water in a boat to see what you can catch, and in winter, the family can experience ice fishing on the lakes too.
There are paved roads running right around the three lakes, perfect for cycling with the family. Stop along the way to paddle in the water, have a picnic on the shore, or to let the kids play in the park's playground.
Lake Shakamak is safe for swimming, and there's a pool shelter open in the summer months for parents to relax as the kids have fun. If you want to take a break from the water, the swimming area is close to the playground and nature center, which hosts ranger-led events during the summer.
