As the deepest natural lake in Indiana, Lake Tippecanoe draws people in with its crystal-clear water and peaceful shoreline, but it’s more than just a pretty place to look at. From fishing trips to nature walks, every day offers something new. Whether you're spending the weekend at a campground or planning a full summer by the water, the area around Lake Tippecanoe delivers the kind of outdoor variety that appeals to everyone. From early morning kayaking sessions to evening rounds of golf, here’s a closer look at some of the top activities to enjoy when visiting or living near Lake Tippecanoe.
Experience World-Class Water Recreation on Lake Tippecanoe
When it comes to lake activities, Tippecanoe checks every box. Known for its deep, clean waters, this all-sports lake is perfect for anyone who enjoys spending time out on the water. Boaters have plenty of space to cruise, and because it connects to James Lake and Oswego Lake, there’s even more shoreline to explore.
Fishing is a top pastime here, with anglers catching everything from bluegill and crappie to bass and northern pike. The lake's depth creates an ideal habitat for a variety of fish species, and the changing seasons bring different opportunities—spring and early summer being especially productive for bass fishing. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular during calm morning hours, while afternoons often bring out families and groups for tubing and wakeboarding.
Pontoon cruising is also a favorite way to enjoy the lake at a slower pace. Many visitors bring their own boats, but rentals are available from local marinas for those who need them. Whether you’re after adrenaline or a laid-back afternoon on the water, this lake has the room and the setting to make it happen.
Fishing is a top pastime here, with anglers catching everything from bluegill and crappie to bass and northern pike. The lake's depth creates an ideal habitat for a variety of fish species, and the changing seasons bring different opportunities—spring and early summer being especially productive for bass fishing. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular during calm morning hours, while afternoons often bring out families and groups for tubing and wakeboarding.
Pontoon cruising is also a favorite way to enjoy the lake at a slower pace. Many visitors bring their own boats, but rentals are available from local marinas for those who need them. Whether you’re after adrenaline or a laid-back afternoon on the water, this lake has the room and the setting to make it happen.
Camp at Patona Bay Resort & Marina
For those who want to stay close to the water, Patona Bay Resort & Marina offers an easy, family-oriented base camp. The resort includes a full-service marina, boat rentals, and a well-kept campground for tents, RVs, and everything in between. It’s a great spot for weekenders and seasonal visitors looking to soak up as much lake time as possible.
Campers enjoy shaded sites, direct lake access, and amenities like showers and laundry facilities. The on-site marina makes it easy to launch boats, buy supplies, or get assistance with gear. Whether you're camping out under the stars or spending the day on the docks, Patona Bay makes lake life simple and convenient.
In the summer, the resort takes on a lively, communal feel, with families gathering for evening cookouts, morning fishing trips, and sunset pontoon rides. It’s one of the most popular ways to experience everything Lake Tippecanoe has to offer without being far from the action.
Campers enjoy shaded sites, direct lake access, and amenities like showers and laundry facilities. The on-site marina makes it easy to launch boats, buy supplies, or get assistance with gear. Whether you're camping out under the stars or spending the day on the docks, Patona Bay makes lake life simple and convenient.
In the summer, the resort takes on a lively, communal feel, with families gathering for evening cookouts, morning fishing trips, and sunset pontoon rides. It’s one of the most popular ways to experience everything Lake Tippecanoe has to offer without being far from the action.
Hit the Green at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club
A short drive from the shoreline, Tippecanoe Lake Country Club offers an impressive 18-hole golf course that’s open to members and their guests. Set among rolling greens and mature trees, the course provides a scenic yet challenging round for golfers of all levels.
The layout is tight enough to test accuracy but forgiving enough to keep the pace enjoyable. In addition to the golf course, the club features a driving range, pro shop, and dining facilities that overlook the lake. During the warmer months, members can participate in golf tournaments and social events, many of which are geared toward couples or families.
After a morning round, many golfers head down to the clubhouse for lunch or cocktails while taking in lake views from the patio. For anyone who enjoys combining outdoor recreation with a touch of leisure, this country club strikes a nice balance.
The layout is tight enough to test accuracy but forgiving enough to keep the pace enjoyable. In addition to the golf course, the club features a driving range, pro shop, and dining facilities that overlook the lake. During the warmer months, members can participate in golf tournaments and social events, many of which are geared toward couples or families.
After a morning round, many golfers head down to the clubhouse for lunch or cocktails while taking in lake views from the patio. For anyone who enjoys combining outdoor recreation with a touch of leisure, this country club strikes a nice balance.
Enjoy a Relaxing Nature Walk at Lake Tippecanoe Nature Preserve
Not everything around Lake Tippecanoe is centered on boats or fishing poles. For those who appreciate slower-paced outdoor activity, the nearby Lake Tippecanoe Nature Preserve offers a chance to explore the quieter side of the region. This protected area includes a variety of walking trails that meander through native wetlands, woods, and open meadows. Birdwatchers often frequent the preserve in spring and fall, when migratory species pass through. The trails are well-marked and provide a relaxing way to connect with the area’s natural beauty away from the water.
Just a short drive north, Tippecanoe River State Park offers an expanded set of trails and river access. The park’s river views and wooded paths create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for solo hikes, nature photography, or family picnics. For those interested in paddling, the river section through the park is calm and ideal for canoeing.
Between the preserve and the state park, visitors have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors without needing a motor or a fishing rod. These green spaces round out the list of things to do in Lake Tippecanoe, offering variety for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.
Just a short drive north, Tippecanoe River State Park offers an expanded set of trails and river access. The park’s river views and wooded paths create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for solo hikes, nature photography, or family picnics. For those interested in paddling, the river section through the park is calm and ideal for canoeing.
Between the preserve and the state park, visitors have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors without needing a motor or a fishing rod. These green spaces round out the list of things to do in Lake Tippecanoe, offering variety for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.
Visit the Tippecanoe Lake Historical Museum
For a look into the area’s past, the Tippecanoe Lake Historical Museum provides a thoughtful collection of stories, photos, and artifacts from the region’s early days. Tucked into a former boathouse near the lake, the museum is small but carefully maintained.
Exhibits cover everything from the lake’s Native American history to early boating culture and summer vacation trends from the mid-20th century. Vintage swimwear, photos of long-gone lakefront resorts, and antique fishing equipment tell a story of how the lake evolved into the destination it is today.
While the museum isn’t open year-round, seasonal visits and private tours are typically available by appointment or during summer events. It’s a worthwhile stop for anyone who enjoys learning about local history or has a connection to the area’s earlier generations.
Exhibits cover everything from the lake’s Native American history to early boating culture and summer vacation trends from the mid-20th century. Vintage swimwear, photos of long-gone lakefront resorts, and antique fishing equipment tell a story of how the lake evolved into the destination it is today.
While the museum isn’t open year-round, seasonal visits and private tours are typically available by appointment or during summer events. It’s a worthwhile stop for anyone who enjoys learning about local history or has a connection to the area’s earlier generations.
Discover What Makes This Lake Community Unique
One of the biggest takeaways from time spent at Lake Tippecanoe is how naturally the activities flow from one to the next. A morning might begin with coffee on the dock, followed by a quick trip to the marina or a few casts from the boat. From there, it’s easy to pivot to lunch at the country club, a nature hike in the afternoon, and an evening around the fire back at camp.
Turn Your Lake Dreams Into a Daily Reality
Living near Lake Tippecanoe means embracing a lifestyle that offers flexibility, outdoor fun, and a strong sense of place. Whether you’re searching for a year-round home, a weekend retreat, or an investment opportunity in this sought-after area, having the right real estate guidance is essential.
The Deb Paton Showley Group brings hands-on experience and local insight to help buyers navigate the Lake Tippecanoe market with confidence. From lakefront properties with dock access to wooded lots near nature preserves, they understand how to match clients with homes that support the kind of lifestyle they’re seeking. If you're ready to make the move, let The Deb Paton Showley Group guide you every step of the way, so you can enjoy everything this lake community has to offer from the comfort of your own home. Contact the team at The Deb Paton Showley Group today!
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
The Deb Paton Showley Group brings hands-on experience and local insight to help buyers navigate the Lake Tippecanoe market with confidence. From lakefront properties with dock access to wooded lots near nature preserves, they understand how to match clients with homes that support the kind of lifestyle they’re seeking. If you're ready to make the move, let The Deb Paton Showley Group guide you every step of the way, so you can enjoy everything this lake community has to offer from the comfort of your own home. Contact the team at The Deb Paton Showley Group today!
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
