Hike, Bike, Camp, And Swim At One Of Indiana's Oldest State Parks Nestled On A Pretty Lake

Northern Indiana is an under-the-radar destination for camping, swimming, local wildlife, and outdoor activities. Pokagon State Park, near where I-69 and I-80 meet, is a perfect place to spend a day, or several, on a road trip through the Midwest's most underrated cities. This region has several lakes that formed after glaciers melted thousands of years ago and is home to one of Indiana's original state parks. Pokagon, nestled on Lake James, has 1,260 acres of space for four seasons of fun, including hiking, biking, swimming, camping, cross-country skiing, and a winter toboggan run — even if there is no snow!

Being just a few hours' drive from Chicago and the best vacation spot in Indiana, Pokagon State Park has more than a prime location going for it. The area is full of history. The park's name was changed from Lake James to Pokagon to remember the region's longstanding Native American heritage. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed much of the park, including planting trees, constructing buildings, and improving the beach and land for many uses. Today, the park hosts a nature center and the gorgeous lakeside Potawatomi Inn. With 126 guest rooms and 12 cabins, as well as a spa and game room, the inn is ready to host family gatherings, conferences, and everything in between. And, pets are generally welcome at the inn and its beautiful sandy beach!

Pokagon State Park's picturesque location is ideal for outdoor activities and family recreation in the Midwest. Adding to the park's charm are all the amenities you need for a perfect camping trip. The park has plenty of electric and non-electric camping sites near the east part of the lake shore with full public bathrooms, drinking water, a fire pit, a camp store, and (more importantly) plenty to do while you get out and enjoy the scenery. Four sites are ADA-accessible. If you plan to visit during the summer, note that campsites can be reserved in advance and require a two-night minimum on the weekends. Over three-day weekends, campers are required to reserve the three-day weekend period at a minimum. 

For those looking for a higher level of comfort, the park also has eight historic cabins run by Potawatomi Inn. One cabin suite is ADA-compliant. Each cabin sleeps up to four and provides the basic comforts of home, including a private bathroom, microwave, refrigerator, and TV. Whether you stay in a campsite or a cabin, be sure to explore the park's 13 miles of hiking trails. Dogs are welcome throughout the park but must be on a leash. When you're out walking with your best friend, use these tips to be a responsible owner. If you're looking to get out on the water, the park rents canoes, fishing boats, and paddle boards, for your convenience. If you're going for a swim, note that there is no lifeguard at both of the lake's sandy beaches, and swimming areas are clearly marked. 

Pokagon sets itself apart from other state parks with unique outdoor activities for any season. The Hell's Point Challenge encourages visitors to fully explore the park from corner to corner over a strenuous 8-mile hiking loop as you climb to the park's highest point. If you're able to complete and document your trek, you will be rewarded! If you've always wanted to ride a horse, the park has a guided horseback riding tour during the summer and fall. While you're exploring, don't miss the park's incredible bird habitat, specifically around different sections of the Potawatomi Nature Preserve (trails 3, 6, and 7). 

If you visit during the winter, be sure to check out the park's well-known winter sporting and outdoor activities, including the quarter-mile-long toboggan ride. The toboggan ride is the only refrigerated toboggan ride in Indiana and opens from the weekend after Thanksgiving to the end of February. Groups of up to four can fly down the 90-foot vertical drop at up to 40 mph, making this an excellent family activity. And, kids of any age are welcome as long as they will follow the instructions. Gloves are required and warming huts with hot snacks and beverages are provided. If you start to get too cold, the Nature Center is just a five-minute walk away and is worth a visit to learn more about local wildlife or watch them through the Woodland Window. 

If you've already experienced the rush of flying down the track, and are thirsty for more, the park offers discounts on cross-country ski rentals with the purchase of a toboggan run. The park's three cross-country trails cater to skiers of all levels and offer winter fun for everyone. And, don't worry about lugging everything because all basic rental equipment is available for the whole family.