Make a Splash

story by Tammy Tilley

From the shores of Lake Michigan to the banks of the Ohio River and countless destinations in between, Indiana’s waterways and water parks offer an entire summer of fishing, boating, relaxing, and playing.

You’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to the coast when you explore one of the many Indiana towns along the South Shore of Lake Michigan. Michigan City is the state’s northernmost city and offers swimming, surfing (yes, surfing!), and boating. The iconic Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse is known for its distinctive octagonal tower and elevated catwalk, giving visitors close-up views of the lighthouse and the lake. And while you’re in the area, be sure and travel inland to visit their notable local shops and restaurants.

Chesterton is an obvious water-fun destination, as it is home to Indiana Dunes State Park and the adjacent Indiana Dunes National Park. In Whiting, family fun adventures await at WhoaZone at Whihala Beach which features an action-packed floating obstacle course and a beautiful white sand beach on Lake Michigan.

Inland, La Porte blends history, shopping, and three noteworthy lakes. Pine Lake, the largest, attracts speedboats, jet skis, and water skiers. Connected Stone Lake offers calm, no-wake conditions for kayaking and fishing, while Clear Lake provides a 3.5-mile trail, paddleboarding, and catchand-release fishing.

True to its name, Lake County boasts the largest natural lake in Northwest Indiana, Cedar Lake. Spanning 781 acres, it offers a boat launch, a fishing pier, and beaches. Their annual Summerfest is fun for all, with a variety of food, games, music, and entertainment. There’s a new musical lineup each day, and be sure and check out the annual charity car show. The coastal community of Miller Beach is called the gateway to the Indiana Dunes National Park, and is known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. East Chicago’s lakefront location makes it a prime spot for boating and beach access.

The Tippecanoe River, recognized as one of North America’s most important freshwater systems, winds through the 2,700-acre Tippecanoe State Park in Pulaski County. Launch a canoe, kayak, or tube along the canoe trail, fish along the banks, or cast from the nearby Winamac Fish and Wildlife Area while observing nature.

Choose your pace on Monticello’s twin lakes in White County. Lake Shafer buzzes with energy thanks to Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Nearby Lake Freeman, which spans between both White and Carroll counties, offers a quieter setting for fishing and paddling. Docked on Lake Freeman, the Madam Carroll is a large, historic boat offering seasonal cruises.

Lake Maxinkuckee in Culver is nicknamed the “Cape Cod of the Midwest” for its cleanliness. This 1,864-acre lake is popular for boating, fishing, paddling, and even scuba diving, thanks to its 88-foot depth. Travelers are drawn to this charming lakeside town not just for lake life, but also for its boutiques, unique lodging options, and locally-owned lakeside eateries.

Kosciusko County boasts 100 lakes, notably Lake Wawasee, Indiana’s largest natural lake. Enjoy a variety of water adventures, then stay at Oakwood Resort, a premier lakeside destination offering panoramic views and amazing sunsets. The Village at Winona features 16 cottage style shops and distinctive dining options, all within a couple minutes’ walk to Winona Lake.

Cast a line or paddle your way into relaxation at the Bicentennial Nature Area in Lafayette. A 70 acre pond lies within a 196-acre preserve offering peaceful bank fishing or time on the water by kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or windboard. Electric trolling motor boats help keep the setting serene. Drift downstream along scenic Wildcat Creek with Wildcat Canoe and Kayak Too, also in Lafayette. Rent kayaks, canoes, and tubes, or use the upstream shuttle if you bring your own gear. Families will love visiting the tropical-themed Tropicanoe Cove water park, located in Columbian Park, with attractions like the Banana Peel tube slide, Cattail Crik lazy river, and Tiki-Twist.

In Indiana’s northeastern corner, Steuben County is also known for its more than 100 natural lakes, with Pokagon State Park anchoring the region. Fish, paddle, and swim along Lake James’ sandy beaches, then stay at the family friendly Potawatomi Inn.

If you don’t think of downtown Fort Wayne as a water destination, think again. The city’s Promenade Park is a 32-acre riverfront park with kayak and canoe rentals, splash pad, riverboat cruises, and the Doermer Kids’ Canal, a shallow water area with stepping stones and fountains.

The Beach Boys may have popularized another location, but Central Indiana has its own Kokomo Beach at the Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center. Race down water slides, tackle the water tower, or float the lazy river. Younger visitors enjoy a dedicated splash pad and kid friendly slides.

You can be cool and stay cool in Grant County. Both Marion and Gas City have family-fun splash pads that offer interactive features like water jet sprayers at Turner Park, and racer slides, lazy river, and wave pool at Splash House. For a more leisurely way to enjoy the water, stroll the Mississenewa Riverwalk, a 2.25-mile paved walking path.

Henry County offers two locations for water recreation. Summit Lake State Park spans 800 acres, with quiet coves for kayaking and fishing in well-stocked waters. The smaller Westwood Lake is popular with boaters and anglers. On land, it offers hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails.

Catch a wave on the FlowRider® surf simulator at The Waterpark in Carmel. This 3.5-acre aquatic center features adventure slides, plunge features, lazy river, and interactive water play keep all ages engaged. Reserve a cabana, which includes a refrigerator and fan, and stay all day. Concessions are also available.

Heading south, the Brookville/Whitewater Complex in Franklin County traverses 13,500 acres and encompasses two lakes, trails, beaches, and campsites. Brookville Reservoir is designed for fast boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and trout fishing. The much smaller and quieter Whitewater Lake is ideal for slow boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and spotting bald eagles.

You can explore the water side of Brown County at the Abe Martin Lodge indoor water park. Or, book a canoe or kayak trip through quiet forests and rivers. Or, sign up for a boat tour of Lake Monroe either with a guide, or on your own. Lake Monroe is so big, that it also covers a large area just outside of Bloomington. Overnight options include campgrounds like Fairfax SRA with a beach, playground, tennis court, and basketball court. For a more resort-type stay, reserve a room at the Fourwinds Lakeside Inn & Marina with restaurant and relaxing pool area.

Big Splash Adventure in French Lick covers 40,000 square feet of indoor waterpark attractions, including the Jolly Roger Jetty and the relaxing Lost River. Minutes away, Patoka Lake’s 8,800 acres offer days of water fun with boating, jet skiing, swimming, and fishing. Rent a houseboat, stay in a floating cabin, take a wine cruise, or unwind around lakeside fire pits.

Perry County has more than 40 miles of Ohio River shoreline, with historic Tell City overlooking the river. Boaters say this stretch offers some of the most beautiful, undisturbed river scenery. Riverfront cabins offer spectacular views in the rural river hamlets of Magnet, Derby, and Cannelton.

Marengo and Wyandotte Caves attract visitors to Crawford County, while nearby waterways provide additional recreation. Patoka Lake occupies the northern section. The Blue River forms the eastern boundary, and the Ohio River marks the southern edge. For one of the prettiest views in southern Indiana, make mealtime plans at The Overlook Restaurant which serves hearty American fare and overlooks the Ohio River.

Voted the Midwest’s number-one small town for two years in a row—and nominated again this year—the Ohio River town of Madison offers highspeed thrills with Rockin’ Thunder River Tours and the annual Madison Regatta. The Riverfront Walkway supports calmer activities, such as strolling and biking. Witness breathtaking views from the Madison-Milton Bridge, and for a cool break, spend the day at the Crystal Beach Aquatic Park. Nearby Clifty Falls State Park offers some beautiful trails with scenic water views.