Thrill-Seekers Will Be In Heaven At This Heart-Stopping Swimming Hole In Indiana

In much of the U.S. — especially those northern regions that shiver under a deep freeze throughout much of the year — summer is a magical time. When the temperatures begin to soar, Americans really know how to embrace life through time-honored traditions such as barbecues, a scenic road trip, or by heading out to underrated beaches, lakes, rivers, and secret swimming holes in an attempt to beat the heat. 

This is especially true in Midwestern states such as Indiana, where the winters are frigid and the summers sweltering — with temperatures in excess of 90 degrees. From June through August, the Hoosier State is not just hot but also extremely humid, which makes cooling off imperative. While some Indianapolis residents head to well-known retreats such as the 8,000-acre recreation area famous for Cataract Falls, just 50 minutes southeast of the capital is a smaller gem that will cool you off and get your blood pumping.

Situated just outside St. Paul, White Rock Park is a 45-acre privately-owned property on a bend of the Flat Rock River that is open to the public. While the park has primitive camping spots next to the river and features a fishing lake, most visitors come in the summer to dive, zipline, swing on a rope, or just do some good old-fashioned swimming in the main lake.

The swimming lake at White Rock Park occupies a former quarry, which means there are no shallows. The drop-off is immediate, with depths averaging 25 to 30 feet, making it perfect for jumping in or diving. Those not seeking an adrenaline rush are welcome to spend the day lazing on one of the floating docks or their own inflatable raft.

The park's owner has taken advantage of the lake's natural features by including a rope swing, a zipline, and several diving areas (ranging from 10- and 15-foot to 20- and 30-foot platforms). These attractions draw a young crowd keen not only to plunge into the deep, clear, cooling waters, but also to get their hearts racing in a way that only plenty of sunshine, diving, and the carefree vibes of summer can accomplish. 

While things get a bit raucous during the day, White Rock Park grows quiet at night. Visitors can camp at one of nine spots adjacent to the languidly-flowing river. These are bare-bones spots without electricity or water hookups and best for tents or very small RVs, though each campsite comes with a picnic table and fire pit. 

Given that White Rock Park is centered around a deep, spring-fed quarry lake and has grown in popularity, it should come as no surprise that there are a host of rules involved in visiting the site. This has led to some inevitable grumbling online, so it pays to do your homework before setting off.

Jumping off a 30-foot-high platform into a 30-foot-deep lake doesn't come without risk, so all visitors are required to sign an online legal waiver releasing the park owner of all liability prior to entering the property. Also, when it comes to safety, everyone is required to wear a lifejacket while in the water, and lifeguards are on duty at all times. Guests are also highly encouraged to wear water shoes, and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited anywhere in the park. The staff takes the latter very seriously, and even though cans of beer were once permitted, the rule has since been changed. They won't think twice about searching your vehicle or cooler for booze.

The swimming lake at White Rock Park has become a victim of its own success, so much so that people were sometimes turned away on hot summer days when the site had reached capacity. The owner has now implemented a ticketing system to ensure an optimal experience for each guest, and the lake is only open for swimming between 12 and 3 p.m. on select days, so make sure to reserve and pay for your spot ahead of time. For more of nature's goodness, check out the Indiana's largest waterfall.