Shades State Park
Open year-round for camping. Backpack camp is closed late October through early April. Trails 7 and 8 are currently closed due to damaged trail structures. Reservations available at camp.IN.gov.
Hydrologic Outlook issued August 10 at 2:09PM EDT by NWS Indianapolis IN
ESFIND Heavy Rain will be possible this through much of this week due to rounds of possible thunderstorms. The combination of a very warm and humid air mass along with a series of upper level weather disturbances passing within the flow aloft are expected to produce periodic showers and thunderstorms over the next few days. Confidence for precise timing and location of storms remains low, but storms are likely to occur, and when they do occur, heavy rain will be possible. Rainfall amounts in excess of 2 inches will be possible with storms which could result in flooding. Stay tuned for the latest forecast information. This outlook means that elevated water levels and potential impacts are possible, but not yet certain. Continue to closely monitor forecasts including the possibility of flood watches, warnings, and advisories.
About
Shades State Park sits on the bluffs above Sugar Creek, 17 miles southwest of Crawfordsville in western Indiana. The park is named for the dense shade created by towering hardwoods growing in the park's narrow ravines. Hikers can explore deep sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and dramatic cliff formations along trails ranging from easy to difficult. Sugar Creek provides excellent canoeing opportunities, and the park maintains 10 primitive canoe-in campsites for paddlers. The main campground offers 105 non-electric sites suitable for tents and smaller RVs, with maximum lengths varying from 35 to 47 feet depending on the site. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table. A centrally located bath house provides flush toilets and showers, while vault toilets are available throughout the campground. Potable water is accessible via frost-free hydrants and a water fill station. The park also offers seven backpack camping sites accessible via a 2.5-mile trail, which are closed from late October through early April. Reservations can be made through Indiana State Parks' reservation system up to six months in advance. Pets are welcome at all campsites. The park sells firewood, ice, and beverages seasonally. An amphitheater hosts interpretive programs during peak season.
Directions
From Crawfordsville, travel 17 miles southwest on SR 47. The park entrance is at 7751 S. 890 W., Waveland, IN 47989.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $14 - $30 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 55ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (765) 435-2810 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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