Exploring the Hidden Gems of Indiana’s Waterfront Towns
Indiana is home to a variety of underrated waterfront towns and scenic lakeside views that offer unforgettable travel experiences. From the small town of Angola, known for its lakeside getaways and hidden trails, to Michigan City, a beach town with a national park gateway full of dunes, the state has plenty to offer for beachgoers and lake enthusiasts alike.
In Central Indiana, just 20 minutes from bustling Indianapolis, lies the town of Fishers. Here, you’ll find Geist, a district centered around a man-made reservoir that holds an impressive 7 billion gallons of water. This makes it the second-largest man-made lake in the state. The Geist Reservoir spans 1,900 acres and is a hub for lakefront properties, local dining, hiking trails, and competitive bass fishing.
A Rich History and Natural Beauty
Built in 1943, the Geist Reservoir was originally constructed to provide freshwater to Indianapolis through strategic damming. The Fall Creek River serves as the lifeblood of the lake, flowing from north to south. At the southern end of the reservoir stands the Geist Reservoir Dam, a 1,400-foot-long structure with a 500-foot spillway. This dam is also part of a prominent birding trail along Fall Creek, where birds are abundant during fall, winter, and spring.
Activities at Geist Reservoir
In 2023, the Geist Waterfront Park opened to the public, offering swimming in the summer months and year-round recreational activities. The beach is free for local residents and open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Non-residents will need to pay $25 per vehicle for parking. Rental services for non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes are available. Families with children can enjoy the pirate-themed playground, which is open all year and features a miniature pirate ship for climbing.
For those interested in motorized boats, the Geist Lake Marina offers rentals of pontoons in four to eight-hour blocks. If you plan on returning to Fishers frequently, the marina also provides storage facilities for all seasons. They have boat launch ramps to make moving boats from land to water and vice versa easy and safe.
Hiking and Walking Trails
The walking trails around the reservoir are another major attraction. One of the most popular is the Fall Creek Trail, which starts at the Geist Reservoir Dam and stretches for 2.3 miles. It typically takes about 45 minutes to walk. For hikers seeking a greater challenge, the trail extends to Fort Benjamin State Park, covering 6.9 miles to the Central Canal Towpath. All these trails are free to use year-round and are dog-friendly as long as pets are on a leash.
Fishing Opportunities
Geist Reservoir is renowned for its excellent fishing scene, particularly for largemouth bass. Due to the large bass population, the Geist Reservoir Bass Tournament is held regularly to encourage local fishing and offer cash prizes. For instance, the prize for the largest catch is $5,000, while the team competition offers a first-place prize of $7,000. These events enforce a strict catch-and-release policy during competition hours, promoting responsible fishing and community building.
Casual fishing is also allowed year-round, with thriving populations of catfish, smallmouth bass, and bluegill. For those looking to escape the competitive atmosphere, nearby trails along Fall Creek offer peaceful spots to fish, especially near Fort Harrison State Park. The Geist Park on the northeastern end of the reservoir is another serene location for fishing.
Discover More Hidden Treasures
If you’re eager to uncover more hidden gems and gain expert travel tips, consider subscribing to a free newsletter that provides access to the world’s best-kept travel secrets. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply exploring, Indiana’s waterfront towns and lakeside views offer something for everyone.
