Camping at SWEET GUM SHELTER

Sweet Gum Shelter at Pokagon State Park

Pokagon State Park is one of Indiana's most popular state parks, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and abundant recreational activities. The Sweet Gum Shelter is one of the facilities available for visitors who wish to have a picnic or group gathering at the park. Here's some important information about Sweet Gum Shelter:

Location and Accessibility

• Park Address: Pokagon State Park is located at 450 Lane 100 Lake James, Angola, Indiana.
• Shelter Accessibility: The Sweet Gum Shelter is situated within the park and is accessible by roads and well-marked trails. Make sure to check the park map or ask at the park office for specific directions.

Facility Details

• Capacity: Sweet Gum Shelter is designed to accommodate a certain number of visitors, so it's important to know the capacity if you're planning an event. The exact capacity can be obtained from the park office or online booking details.
• Amenities: The shelter typically includes picnic tables, a grill, and possibly electrical outlets. Check with the park for the most up-to-date list of amenities.
• Reservation: Shelters in state parks often require reservations, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve the Sweet Gum Shelter through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources reservation system.

Activities Nearby

• Trails: There are multiple trails around the shelter for hiking, with varying difficulty levels, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear.
• Lake Activities: Pokagon State Park is known for its lakes, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming in designated areas.
• Nature Center: The park typically has a nature center which can provide educational programs and information about the local ecology.
• Winter Activities: In the winter, the park may provide options for sledding, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.

Reservation and Fees

• Reservation Process: You can reserve Sweet Gum Shelter online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website or by calling their reservation line.
• Fees: Reservation fees vary depending on the date, duration of use, and size of the group. The fee structure can be found on the state park's reservation portal.

Rules and Regulations

• Park Hours: Be aware of park hours, which can change seasonally, to ensure your event doesn't exceed operational hours.
• Alcohol Policy: If you plan to have alcohol at your event, check the park's policy, as many state parks have restrictions regarding alcohol consumption.
• Pets: Pets may be allowed in certain areas if they are on a leash, but it's important to verify this with the park's specific rules.
• Leave No Trace: Always follow the principle of Leave No Trace, cleaning up after yourself and respecting the natural environment.

Contact Information

• Park Office: For the most current information, contact the park office directly. The contact information can typically be found on the state park's website.

Additional Tips

• Weather Preparedness: Indiana weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast in advance and prepare for potential rain or sun.
• Bug Protection: Depending on the time of year, mosquitoes and other insects could be prevalent; bring bug spray and consider a screened-in canopy.
• Food Storage: Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals to your gathering.

Please note that information can change, so it's always best to contact Pokagon State Park directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and current information regarding Sweet Gum Shelter and other park specifics.