The park's name, 'Shakamak,' is derived from a Native American word meaning 'river of the long fish.'
Much of the park's original infrastructure, including cabins and the group camp, was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1933 and 1935.
The park contains three distinct lakes totaling approximately 400 acres of water surface.
It hosts an annual lake festival that historically celebrates the local community and the park's history.
The property is situated atop reclaimed coal mining land that was extensively reforested for public recreational use.
Shakamak State Park is a 1,766-acre recreational area in Jasonville, Indiana, centered around three man-made lakes: Kickapoo, Lenape, and Shakamak. The park features an Olympic-sized swimming pool constructed by the Works Progress Administration during the 1930s. Visitors have access to over 400 campsites, including both primitive and electric-hookup options, alongside several rental cabins. The lakes are known for bluegill, redear, and channel catfish fishing. Hiking trails traverse the rolling terrain, passing through hardwood forests and around the reservoir shorelines. It is managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources as part of the state park system.
The spillway and bridge area connecting the lakes provides the most panoramic water views.
Bring your own fishing gear as bait and tackle are not always available for sale on-site.
Reserve campsites or cabins well in advance, especially for holiday weekends, as they frequently reach capacity.
Pack insect repellent, particularly for lakeside areas during the summer months.
Assuming the swimming pool is open year-round; it is strictly a seasonal facility.
The swimming pool and certain water-based facilities are open only during the summer season.
Maintain noise levels during quiet hours at campsites; carry out all trash to keep wildlife areas clean.
