It may be back-to-school month, but we’re determined to squeeze out just a little more summer. Whether your favorite lakeside pastime is fishing, boating, swimming or simply relaxing by the water, Southern Indiana offers plenty of opportunities to dive right in.
Fishing Frenzy
Cast your lure out at Daviess County’s Glendale Fish and Wildlife Area which features more than 1,400 acres of water across 22 ponds and Dogwood Lake, all full of catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. On dry land, this beautiful reserve has over 8,000 acres of land to explore and allows for camping as well. Over in Greene County, Goose Pond boasts a 9,000 acre marsh, suitable for boating, canoeing and kayaking. In almost any country across Southern Indiana, you’re sure to discover plenty of fishing opportunities.
Paddle Around Southern Indiana
If active recreation is more your speed, try your hand at 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 Blue Springs 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.
Camping by the Water
Make a weekend of it 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 also offers “Playtoons” complete with water slides and plenty of space for socializing. For a boatload of activities 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 arts and crafts, air hockey, a kids' play area, and much more. Even if you don’t spend the night at West Boggs, it is worth visiting for dinner at Stoll’s Lakeview Restaurant!
Rain-Proof Water 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, interactive playgrounds, and a lazy river. Rain or shine, summer or winter, this water park is always open and a fun way to get in the water.
For more information on outdoor recreation in Southern Indiana, explore our website.
