Patoka Lake
Address:
10891 Indiana 145
French Lick, IN 47432
About Patoka Lake
Patoka Lake, nestled in the Hoosier National Forest in southern Indiana, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in North America and the second largest lake in Indiana. The US Army Corps of Engineers, authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1965, created the lake by seizing the Patoka River when it was built in 1972-1979. Lake Patokas - built primarily for flood control - provides drinking water to 65,000 people in nine counties, provides recreation, improves fish and wildlife, and covers an area of 8,800 hectares.
The area around Lake Patoka is a resort during the whole season, but is most popular in the summer months.
Water lovers can choose from a variety of water sports, such as kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, kayaking and rafting.
Warm weather activities include hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, boating, mountain biking and even a few other activities.
Dazzling autumn leaves ensure that you do not miss any season at Lake Patoka and colorful dogwood blossoms awaken spring.
The fun does not stop when the temperatures get cold, but the landscape of the lake is most beautiful in winter, with snow - free beaches, snowshoeing, skiing and snowmobiling.
Lake Patoka is home to many bays that are worth exploring, such as the Great Lakes Bay, Lake of Lakes and the Northern Bay. The lake is known for its spectacular views of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, but is also known as Patoka Lake due to its proximity to the state of Indiana and its location on the Indiana-Wisconsin border.
In 2008, the Crappie USA National Classic was held there, as well as the Great Lakes Bass Classic and the Lake of Lakes Classic in 2009 and 2010.
The lake is also rich in catfish and flat-headed catfish, and channel cats often weigh 15-20 pounds, as well as small mouthfuls up to 10 pounds.
Along the waterways, deep-sea fishing is popular, and adventurous anglers can try fly-fishing for hybrid and striped bass.
Newton Stewart is a campsite with a solar-heated shower, picnic area and picnic table, as well as an outdoor dining area and an outdoor bar.
The recreation area offers 10 boat moorings with lake access, and other DRN facilities include a picnic area, picnic table, outdoor dining and outdoor bar. DNR hiking trails range from leisurely 1 / 2 mile hikes to long, multi-day hikes, such as the 1.5 mile hike from Newton Stewart to Patoka Lake, as well as a 2.2 mile hike from the campsite to Pottawattamie Lake and a 3.7 mile hike.
Campsites Dnr include two campsites, one with solar-heated shower and picnic tables, two with picnic areas, campfires, outdoor restaurant and two outdoor bars.
The Indiana DNR also offers hunting opportunities in Patoka Lake and other state parks and recreation areas. Hunters must be registered with the DNR, and there is a limited number of hunting licenses for deer, elk, elk, turkeys and other wildlife in the state of Indiana.
Early settlers used the path as a primitive road, but in recent years the area has been home to buffalo, who use the easily accessible path for their annual walk.
Take time to explore the surrounding forest, which offers views of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan and Rocky Mountain National Park, when visiting Lake Patoka. Mountain bikers are among the most popular visitors to the area, as are hikers and mountain bikers.
Bring binoculars and a camera to maximize your observation and adventure, and bring a picnic table, water bottle, snacks and water bottles. The U.S. Forest Service declares Patoka Lake National Forest, one of the largest national forests in the United States, a national park. This ecosystem provides access to the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan and Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as a variety of animal species.
Orange County is known for its impressive architecture, including the Orange County Courthouse, the California State Capitol and the San Diego Convention Center. Winter guests can enjoy the beautiful, mechanically groomed slopes of Patoka Lake National Forest. Adults can try their luck at the new casino, but there is fun and adventure for the whole family at the park.
The southeastern part of Lake Patoka is located in Crawford County, known for its scenic back roads. Enjoy the scenic views of Marengo and Wyandotte, where the temperature is 52 degrees.
Patoka Lake has been described as a jewel of southern Indiana with its wooded hills and scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Other hiking and cycling opportunities are offered, and outdoor adventures await the whole family. Rent a canoe and swim in Indiana's most famous river, the Blue River, or swim in its tributaries.