Is there anything better than a warm day in Indianapolis? We’ve got some beautiful weather throughout much of the year. It gives you the perfect opportunity to get outside, soak up the sun, and enjoy the many wonderful, beautiful lakes in Indianapolis and the surrounding area. Did you know that there are over 80 lakes in Indiana? We’ve got so many great lakes near Indianapolis that are just a quick drive away. You’ve got quite a few choices, but here are seven of our favorite Indianapolis lakes:

1. Lake Monroe
Lake Monroe, Indiana, USA
Nyttend/Wikipedia CC
You'll find Monroe Lake just a few miles south of Bloomington. It just so happens that this is the largest lake that's entirely situated within the borders of Indiana. It spreads over Monroe and Brown Counties within its 10,750 acres. Monroe Lake is the perfect spot for boating, fishing, and swimming on a warm weather day. It's also one of the best places for kayaking in Indiana.

2. Summit Lake at Summit Lake State Park: 5993 N Messick Rd, New Castle, IN 47362
Summit Lake State Park, 5993 N Messick Rd, New Castle, IN 47362, USA
Lgideon/Wikipedia CC
Summit Lake is part of Summit Lake State Park, one of the best state parks in Indiana. The 800-acre lake is the centerpiece of this massive park, and it's no wonder it's such a popular destination during the warm months. It's a great place for boating enthusiasts.
3. Cagles Mill Lake/Cataract Lake
Cagles Mill Lake, Indiana, USA
mlf102indiana/TripAdvisor
No matter which name you call it, this lake features one of the largest waterfalls near Indianapolis. Besides the gorgeous views, one of the main attractions of Cagles Mill Lake is a bald eagle's nest. Every warm season, the birds return to raise their new babies.
4. Cecil M. Harden Lake/Raccoon Lake
Cecil M Harden Lake, Indiana, USA
LouisvilleUSACE/Flickr
Another lake with two names that we love is the Cecil M. Harden Lake. This is also a great destination for fans of fishing and boating. It's one of our favorite places for kayaking in Indiana and it's not very familiar to those who don't live in the vicinity. You'll find a wide array of fish, wildlife, and plants that you won't find in the big city.
5. Griffy Lake: Bloomington
Griffy Lake, Bloomington, IN 47408, USA
Vmenkov/Wikipedia CC
Bloomington's Griffy Lake was created by a dam on Griffy Creek during the 1920s. The lake is surrounded by the beauty of flora and fauna and is a popular hangout spot for Indiana University students. Along with the lake, you'll find a serene preserve that features several great hiking trails.
6. Lake Shafer
Lake Shafer, Indiana 47960, USA
Flickr/mulf
Lake Shafer is one of the Twin Lakes near Monticello. It's a popular recreational area in White County and is one of the clearest lakes in Indiana. It features the great Indiana Beach Amusement Park, as well as a camp resort. You'll find cottages and boat rentals at the marina, making it the ideal place for a weekend getaway.
7. Lake Freeman
Lake Freeman, Indiana 47960, USA
Karen Fasimpaur/Wikipedia CC
The second of the Twin Lakes, Lake Freeman tends to be the quieter and more peaceful of the two, since it lacks the major tourist attractions at Lake Shafer. You will enjoy a bit more privacy and have more time for quiet reflection while floating on this lake. There's even a festively fun lake cruise you can enjoy here!

What beautiful lakes near Indianapolis do you prefer visiting? Did we miss any of your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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More to Explore

Summer In Indianapolis

Lisa Sammons | June 01, 2022

What are some more great lakes in Indiana?

Some of the best lakes in Indiana include:

  • Lake James
  • Patoka Lake
  • Monroe Lake
  • Dream Lake

 

There are over 80 lakes in Indiana, giving you plenty of opportunities for summer fun. Lake James is one of our favorites. It's tucked away in the northeast corner of the state and is over 1,200 acres!

Are there any water parks near Indianapolis?

Some water parks near Indianapolis include:

  • Holiday World
  • Splashin' Safari

 

Indiana is full of amazing water parks. They're a great way to escape the heat. Holiday World and Splashin Safari is about 3 hours away from Indianapolis, but it's such a great weekend family trip in the summer.

What are the best beaches in Indiana?

Some of the best beaches in Indiana include:

  • Michigan City Beach
  • Ogden Dunes Beach
  • Mt. Baldy
  • North Shore Beach

 

We may be a landlocked state, but that doesn't mean we don't have great beaches in Indiana! Since we have so many lakes, there are plenty of sandy shores to explore. It's no wonder that Indiana Dunes State Park is one of the most visited parks in the state. It's got over 2,000 acres of sandy shoreline and scenic views.

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