Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Indiana’s Waterfront Towns
Indiana is home to a variety of underrated waterfront towns and 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 provides plenty of opportunities for beachgoers and lake lovers.
In Central Indiana, just 20 minutes from the bustling city of Indianapolis, lies the town of Fishers. Here, you’ll find Geist Reservoir, a man-made lake that holds an impressive 7 billion gallons of water, making it the second-largest man-made lake in the state. This reservoir spans 1,900 acres and offers a range of activities including lakefront properties, local dining, hiking trails, and competitive bass fishing.
A Historical Overview of Geist Reservoir
Geist Reservoir was built in 1943 as a source of freshwater for Indianapolis through strategic damming. The Fall Creek River serves as the lifeblood of this lake, flowing from north to south. At the southern end of the reservoir, you’ll find 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 a variety of birds can be spotted during fall, winter, and spring.
Activities at Geist Reservoir
In 2023, Geist opened the Geist Waterfront Park to the public, offering swimming during 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. There are rental services available for non-motorized boats such as kayaks and canoes. 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 to return often, the marina also provides storage facilities for all seasons. They have boat launch ramps to make moving boats between land and water safe and hassle-free.
Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
The walking trails around Geist Reservoir are another major attraction. One of the most popular is the Fall Creek Trail, starting at the Geist Reservoir Dam. This 2.3-mile trail takes about 45 minutes to walk. For hikers seeking a challenge, the trail extends to Fort Benjamin State Park, covering a total distance of 6.9 miles to the Central Canal Towpath. These trails are free to use year-round and are dog-friendly, provided pets are on a leash.
Fishing Opportunities at Geist Reservoir
Geist Reservoir is known for its thriving largemouth bass population, among other fish species. Due to this, the Geist Reservoir Bass Tournament, along with various other fishing competitions, is held to encourage local fishing and offer cash prizes. For example, the prize for the largest catch is $5,000, while the team 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.
Even if competitive fishing isn’t your interest, casual fishing is allowed year-round. With populations of catfish, smallmouth bass, and bluegill, there’s always something to catch. For those looking to escape the reservoir’s competitive energy, nearby trails like those near Fort Harrison State Park offer excellent fishing spots. The Geist Park on the northeastern end of the reservoir also provides peaceful fishing opportunities.
While there are many 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. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Geist Reservoir offers something for everyone.
