Brookville Lake is one of Indiana's most popular state properties. With its location near Cincinnati, the reservoir attracts visitors from Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. In 2025, the reservoir property celebrated its 50th anniversary. At 50 years old, this property has a lot of experience! I enjoyed hiking the trails, learning about the bluebird boxes scattered all over the park, and discovering how they welcome people from all over the tri-state area.
If you want to learn more about bluebirds or make your own bluebird box, the North American Bluebird Society has a TON of resources. You can also find a bluebird box blueprint through Cornell’s website which also has recommendations for the pole’s height, spacing, sizing, and more.
To learn more about the mountain bike trails, join group rides, or help with trail maintenance, check out the Brookville Lake Trail Group on Facebook.
If you want to hear what sandhill cranes sound like, listen here so you can spot them when they migrate.
To learn more about the Glidewell Mound, look at Ball State University's report. You will need to request access to view it, or reach out to me via social media and I'll make sure you get a copy.
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I interviewed two staff members and learned about the last 50 years of Brookville Lake. I learned about the bluebird boxes, the migration of sandhill cranes and pelicans, and how the state’s walleye production begins at Brookville Lake. I also learned about the way they incorporate prescribed fires to manage resources. The staff told me the park’s history – from the ancient Glidewell Mounds to the communities who lived here fifty years ago. Finally, I heard all about the mountain biking trails and Friends group projects, all managed by volunteers who love the park.