As a Hoosier, you've probably heard it all: if you want to have a great summer, you've got to go to Lake Michigan. If you want to have fun with the family, you can't miss the beaches at Indiana Dunes State Park. Sure, those options are beautiful, but sometimes you crave something a little less "in" with the crowds to get away from the hottest months of the year. Lemon Lake in Indiana is the often-forgotten but totally awesome escape you didn't know you were hoping for, and summer is the best time to visit!

Lake Lemon is relatively low on the ranks of other Indiana bodies of water, coming in at the 11th-largest lake (and 7th-largest reservoir) in the Hoosier State.

It's got 24 miles of shoreline, though, and that leaves plenty of room to rest and relax.

It's not terribly deep, coming in at an average of just nine feet in depth. At its deepest point, the lake is just 20 feet deep.

Lake Lemon once served as the primary source of drinking water for the town of Bloomington, though today, the lake has been bumped to its position as the "backup" supply. Lucky for us, really, because this beautiful body of water is definitely calling our names!

There's more to Lake Lemon in Indiana than just the water, of course.

Folks fascinated by bridges will be happy to see that there's a gorgeous one here by the name of Shuffle Creek Trestle; it's an impressive 80 feet tall and 500 feet long. Use caution, though - it's still an active rail, and trains do still pass through here, so please make sure to admire the bridge from afar. In 2014, two women narrowly escaped death when they chose to trespass on the rails as a train came through. You definitely don't want to try your luck in the same way!

Another fun thing is that you never know what kind of wild friends you'll make at Lake Lemon, like this handsome snapping turtle.

The reservoir is home to two dozen species of fish, including largemouth bass and bluegill, as well as plenty of critters like beavers and muskrats, and even the occasional bald eagle!

The Little Africa Wildlife Viewing Area is also a can't-miss, especially for families with kids.

Whether you decide to bring the kids or come solo, you're in for a fun afternoon. The reservoir is a favorite to those who have been here before, and it's pretty easy to see why. Once you visit for the first time, you won't be able to help but come back soon.

Lake Lemon is also open to boaters, so bring your boat and have a killer day on the lake!

Permits for boating are required, though, so make sure to grab info about getting one here.

Keep your eyes peeled for the waterfall near the lake, too!

So, what do you think? Have you ever visited beautiful Lake Lemon in Indiana? Which Indiana lake is your personal favorite? Tell us about it in the comments, and maybe you'll see your faves featured soon! Need more Indiana lakes? No worries! This article has 11 more beautiful bodies of water throughout the Hoosier State to be inspired by!