Indiana's Lake: A Waterfront Escape with Beaches, Trails, and Great Fishing

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Indiana's Waterfront Towns

Indiana is home to a variety of underrated waterfront towns and lakeside views that offer unique travel experiences. From the charming 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 of opportunities for beach lovers and lake enthusiasts.

In Central Indiana, just 20 minutes from the bustling city of Indianapolis lies the town of Fishers. Here, you'll find Geist, a district centered around a man-made reservoir. This reservoir, built in 1943, serves as a vital source of freshwater for Indianapolis through strategic damming. The Fall Creek River acts as the lifeblood of the lake, flowing from north to south.

The Geist Reservoir spans 1,900 acres and offers a range of attractions, including lakefront properties, local dining, hiking trails, and a competitive bass fishing scene. On the southern end of the reservoir, the Geist Reservoir Dam stands as 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.

Geist Waterfront Park: A Community Favorite

In 2023, the Geist Waterfront Park was opened to the public, offering swimming during the summer months and year-round recreation. The beach is free for local residents and open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Non-local visitors will need to pay $25 per vehicle for parking. There are rental services available for non-motorized boats such as kayaks and canoes.

For families with children, there is a pirate-themed playground open all year, allowing kids to climb on a miniature pirate ship. For those looking to rent or purchase a motorized boat, the Geist Lake Marina provides options. You can rent a pontoon for four to eight-hour blocks, and if you plan to return often, storage facilities are available year-round. The marina also features boat launch ramps for safe and easy access to the water.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Walks

Walking trails are another highlight of the area, with the Fall Creek Trail being one of the most popular. Starting at the Geist Reservoir Dam, this 2.3-mile trail takes about 45 minutes to walk. For hikers seeking a greater challenge, the trail extends to Fort Benjamin State Park and continues for 6.9 miles to the Central Canal Towpath. These trails are free to use year-round and are dog-friendly as long as pets are on a leash.

Fishing Opportunities at Geist Reservoir

Geist Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. It is home to a large population of largemouth bass, along with other fish species. Due to the thriving bass population, the Geist Reservoir Bass Tournament is held regularly, offering cash prizes for participants. The prize for the largest catch is $5,000, while the team fishing competition offers a first-place prize of $7,000. All competitions enforce a strict catch-and-release policy during competition hours, promoting sustainable fishing practices.

Casual fishing is also allowed year-round, with populations of catfish, smallmouth bass, and bluegill available for catching. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, nearby trails along Fall Creek offer great spots for fishing, especially near Fort Harrison State Park. The Geist Park on the northeastern end of the reservoir also provides peaceful fishing opportunities.

While there are many other fishing spots in Indiana, such as Shades State Park with its waterfalls and serene getaways, Geist Reservoir stands out for its engaged community and local businesses dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience.

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