Well, it's definitely that time of year again: summer is in full swing, and that means hot and humid days in the sun and fairly calming nights under the stars. Luckily for us, Indiana is a state with tons of options for cooling off; in fact, there are 86 lakes in the Hoosier State, dozens of refreshing quarries, plenty of pristine rivers and ponds, and so much more. So, what are our favorite crystal-clear natural (and sometimes originally man-made, but still pretty natural at this point) swimming holes to visit this summer? Here are our picks for some of the most refreshing pools in Indiana:
1. White Rock Park, St. Paul
White Rock Park is well-known to lifelong Hoosiers as the place to go if you're in search of a clean, crisp swimming hole to dive into. The water is an amazing shade of sapphire, and you'll want to stay all day, if not longer. Visit the official website for the most up-to-date hours and park info!
Address: 7080 South 750 East, St Paul, Indiana, 47272
2. Patoka Lake, Birdseye
Patoka Lake is the second-largest reservoir in the state, and the first destination for summer fun. It's that perfect combination of brilliant beauty and total epicness that makes it so wonderful. For lodging, fees, marina information, and more, visit the website.
Address: 2991 North Dillard Road, Birdseye, Indiana, 47513
3. Lake Michigan, Porter County
Okay, this one might be kind of a given, but...come on. What list of incredible, pristine swimming spots in Indiana would be complete without at least one of Lake Michigan's sparkling beaches? We're pretty partial to Indiana Dunes National Park ourselves - check it out and you'll see why immediately. Visit the official website for park hours, entry fees, permits, and all the information you'll ever need to plan your summertime visit.
Address: 1050 North Mineral Springs Road, Chesterton, Indiana, 46304
4. Hidden Paradise, St. Paul
Hidden Paradise is appropriately named if you ask us. Maybe it's not as "hidden" as it used to be, but it's still a little slice of paradise you'll find yourself falling in love with from the very first visit. It's a popular spot for summertime water-bound recreation, and boy, is it a blast. Best of all, there's a campground on-site, too, so you can stay all night if you so desire. Check out the official campground website for reservations and hours, as well as more photos!
Address: 802 East Jefferson Street, St Paul, Indiana, 47272
5. Morse Beach, Noblesville
Another park/beach combo on this list, Morse Beach isn't one you'll want to pass up. There's all kinds of fun stuff to do, like picnicking, fishing, biking, and boating, and during the summer months, it transforms into a warm-weather paradise for those who want to cool off. Check out the official Morse Beach website for all the important details.
Address: 19777 Morse Park Lane, Noblesville, Indiana, 46060
6. Clear Lake, Clear Lake
Of all the refreshing pools in Indiana you can seek out to cool off, this might be one of the most popular (and aptly named). Clear Lake is technically a cute little township built around, well, a particularly clear lake in far, far northeastern Indiana. You'll be able to throw a rock into Michigan from here (but we don't recommend that). For the most recent goings-on in Clear Lake, visit the town website.
7. Cecil M. Harden Lake (aka Raccoon Lake), Rockville
If "Cecil M. Harden Lake State Recreation Area" is a bit of a mouthful, just call it by its other moniker: Raccoon Lake. This state recreation area is perfect for a hot summer day filled with crisp, cool fun. You can camp here, too, and fishing, boating, and picnics are always welcome. Visit the official website for all the most up-to-date information on the rec area.
Address: 1588 South Raccoon Parkway, Rockville, Indiana, 47872
What do you think? Planning on any of these top-notch destinations any time soon? Which refreshing pools in Indiana are your personal favorites? Tell us in the comments and you might see your pick featured someday!
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