A Trip to Steuben County
Steuben County is home to over 101 lakes and the popular Pokagon State Park, offering plenty of activities in this scenic corner of Indiana.
101 Lakes
With 101 natural lakes, there’s no shortage of ways to get out on the water. The area features a mix of public and private beaches, with local favorites like Clear Lake, Crooked Lake, and Pokagon’s Main Beach.
You can book a boat tour of Lake James and learn the history of the lake, enjoy local wildlife, and admire the beautiful lake homes. You can also rent your own boat or jet ski and enjoy a day on the water at your own pace. Other popular water activities include fishing, paddleboarding, and flyboarding—a newer sport that lets you hover above the water using a jet propulsion system.
The Best of Pokagon State Park
There is no way to be bored at Pokagon State Park during any season. They have a wide range of activities for any level of adventurer. Here’s a look at some of the top activities you can enjoy while visiting this scenic park.
Get on the Water
Pokagon State Park is situated on the beautiful Lake James, which spans over 1,000 acres. Whether you’re into kayaking, canoeing, or just cruising around in a motorboat, the lake offers plenty of space to enjoy the water. If you prefer a quieter way to spend time on the water, fishing is a must-do activity at Pokagon. Lake James is home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime location for both casual anglers and more serious fishermen.
Trails for All Skill Levels
For those who love to hit the trails, Pokagon State Park offers an impressive range of hiking options. The park features over 7 miles of scenic trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and along the shores of Lake James. Looking for a more unique way to see the park? Pokagon is one of the few state parks in Indiana that offers horseback riding. The park has equestrian trails where riders can explore the scenic beauty of the park from a different perspective. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, the horseback riding trails are designed to accommodate all levels.
Winter Wonderland
One of the most unique winter activities at Pokagon State Park is its toboggan run, a hidden gem in the Midwest. Open from mid-December through February (weather permitting), this two-track toboggan slide is one of the few refrigerated toboggan runs in the country. It’s an experience like no other. The toboggan slide, which runs over a half mile and reaches speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Riders can race down the ice-coated track, winding through the beautiful winter landscape. The best part is that everything you need is provided right at the hill.
Plan Your Stay
There are many ways to stay when you visit Steuben County. The best way may be at the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park. It has all the luxuries like two onsite restaurants, an indoor pool, a hot tub and sauna, a game room, and multiple cozy fireplaces throughout. Check out the nine surrounding campgrounds if you are looking for something a little less formal and closer to nature. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is the perfect spot for families! Campers can enjoy an indoor pool, three outdoor pools, a splash pad and water playground, five playgrounds, a mini golf course, and pedal cart rentals. However you choose to stay, your trip to Steuben County will be a memorable one.