School is starting soon, but it’s not too late to soak in the last rays of summer bliss! Southern Indiana’s waterfront destinations cater to visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re seeking lakeside serenity, active adventures, or something in-between, let us be your guide.
Angler’s Oasis
Reel in some fun at Daviess County’s Glendale Fish and Wildlife Area, which features more than 1,400 acres of water across 22 ponds and Dogwood Lake, teeming with catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. On dry land, this beautiful reserve has over 8,000 acres of land to explore and allows for camping. Over in Greene County, Goose Pond boasts a 9,000-acre marsh suitable for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. In almost any county across Southern Indiana, you’re sure to discover the water is brimming with fishing opportunities.
Paddler’s Paradise
You’ve come to the right place if active recreation floats your boat. Southern Indiana is the perfect place for canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. Lawrence County’s Bluespring Caverns combines water with one of Southern Indiana’s other natural wonders: caves! Opt for one of the guided kayak tours to explore the United States’ longest underground river and learn how Bluesprings came to exist. Bluespring Caverns also has more leisurely boat tours through the cave. If you’d prefer to stay above ground, Cave Country Canoes in Crawford County is your go-to place to rent a kayak or canoe and explore the waters of Blue River. Options for guided tours include a half-day, full-day, or two-day trip filled with beautiful scenery, wildlife, and small rapids.
Waterside Retreats
Extend your adventure into a memorable weekend with any of the area’s dozens of camping and lodging opportunities. In addition to plentiful lakeside campgrounds and cabin rentals, Patoka Lake Marina in Crawford County offers unique floating cabins complete with private boat slips and long waterfront decks. Nearby Hoosier Hills Marina offers “Playtoons” equipped with water slides and plenty of space for socializing. For a boatload of activities that the whole family will love, check out West Boggs Lake in Martin County – its campground is outfitted with shelter houses for family events, shower houses, and an activity center featuring camp cooking contests, sack races, volleyball, beach tug-of-war, and so much more. Even if you don’t spend the night at West Boggs, Stoll’s Lakeview Restaurant is a must-do for fresh, authentic Amish cooking and Friday night seafood buffets.
Weatherproof Fun
Summer showers won’t rain on your parade at Big Splash Adventure in French Lick, a 40,000-square-foot indoor water park. Bring the whole family and check out the water slides, lazy river, and new underwater virtual reality experience. Rain or shine, summer or winter, this water park is always ready for you to make a splash!
For more information on outdoor recreation in Southern Indiana, explore our website
