Escape to the Lake By Susan Salaz
What would summer be without a trip to the lake? Indiana is home to hundreds of lakes, both large and small, natural and manmade. Here we highlight some great options for your next fresh water retreat.
Lake Monroe
Drive time: 1.5 hours Situated among a backdrop of rolling hills and dense hardwood forests, Lake Monroe is a Southern Indiana sanctuary. A boat ride is the way to enjoy it best, and Erin White at Visit Bloomington says, “For folks who want to get out on the water, we have three different marinas that offer rentals ranging from double-decker party pontoons to jet skis and smaller boats perfect for an individual family—as well as kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, canoes, and fishing boats.” Fourwinds Lakeside Inn and Marina has the best selection, along with a waterfront restaurant, lodging, and a gorgeous indoor-outdoor pool. |
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Lake Wawasee
Drive time: 2 hours Tucked away near the northern Indiana town of Syracuse, Lake Wawasee is our state’s largest natural lake and has long been a favorite summer vacation destination, offering 25 miles of shoreline. The historic Oakwood Resort offers gorgeous water views and greenspace, along with luxurious rooms, lakeside homes and indulgent amenities any time of day. Experience it all, from handcrafted coffee drinks in the morning, to afternoon swim sessions off the pier, to a sunset cruise aboard the historic canal boat in the evening. |
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Wasatch Lake
Drive time: 1.5 hours Wasatch Lake Retreat, set among the rolling hills and forests of Owen County, features seven fully equipped lakefront cabins and the Long House Lodge—a perfect setting for family reunions, weddings and corporate retreats. Hike miles of trails, swim, fish and canoe in the lake, play tennis or pickleball, and relax around the bonfire every evening. Owner Turner Woodard, who says Wasatch Lake has been his family gathering spot for Memorial Day and Thanksgiving for as long as he can remember, loves sharing this special place, offering a natural haven from the busy-ness of everyday life. "Just relax and leave your cares behind for a week or weekend. You don't have to go far away to get away to have a peaceful and unique experience. It's just as beautiful as you can get and it’s only one hour away from Indy," says Turner. |
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Lake Maxinkuckee
Drive time: 1.75 hours
The pristine waters of Lake Maxinkuckee, a glacial kettle lake formed 15,000 years ago, are popular for summer swimming and sailing, deep enough for scuba enthusiasts, and so full of fish that anglers are left in awe. Accommodations abound, but the waterfront town of Culver, nestled along the northwestern shores, is the vibrant hub of life at Lake Max and often referred to as the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Home to Culver Military Academy and Culver Girls Academy, the walkable community of Culver also boasts immaculate parks and beaches, shopping and dining, and a beautiful bike path along the lake.
Drive time: 1.75 hours
The pristine waters of Lake Maxinkuckee, a glacial kettle lake formed 15,000 years ago, are popular for summer swimming and sailing, deep enough for scuba enthusiasts, and so full of fish that anglers are left in awe. Accommodations abound, but the waterfront town of Culver, nestled along the northwestern shores, is the vibrant hub of life at Lake Max and often referred to as the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Home to Culver Military Academy and Culver Girls Academy, the walkable community of Culver also boasts immaculate parks and beaches, shopping and dining, and a beautiful bike path along the lake.
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Lake Michigan
Drive time: 2.5 hours The Hoosier state might not have ocean beaches, but the south shore of Lake Michigan offers sky-high sandy dunes without the sting of saltwater. The Indiana Dunes, which includes the state’s only national park and a state park, has 70 miles of well-manicured trails perfect for all skill levels. Michelle Senderhauf, Communications Director at Indiana Dunes Tourism, says that on a clear day, the Chicago skyline can be seen from the top of Diana's Dune at West Beach. That hike and the State Park’s 3 Dune challenge can be tough, “but you're rewarded with beautiful views of the lake,” she adds. 
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