Newton-Stewart SRA, Jackson SRA,
Lick Fork SRA, Little Patoka SRA,
Painter Creek SRA, Walls Lake SRA,
South Lick Fork SRA
25,800 acres with a 8,800 acre lake

With 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake is a fine example of lake ecology. An 8,800-acre lake provides habitat for freshwater jellyfish and bald eagle nesting sites. River otters and osprey were reintroduced at Patoka by the DNR.

The property’s Interpretive Services staff presents programs and special events featuring the reconstructed Moery Cabin, a non-releasable red-tailed hawk, bald eagle, Eastern screech owl and other natural and cultural history features of the area. Programs on kayaking, Dutch oven cooking and other outdoor skills are also offered.

The lake is located just south of the historic towns of French Lick and West Baden, and just east of historic Jasper.

An entrance fee MAY be charged to enter the park. It depends on whether you go through the main entrance or to one of the other ramps. Click for information on entrance fees.

Facilities include:

• Archery Range
• Boating - 10 Launch Ramps
• Camping fees : 455 Class A Sites, 45 Class C Sites , 7 Backcountry Sites
• Cross-country Skiing
• Dumping Station - located at the Modern Campground
• Fishing / Ice Fishing - The lake has been heavily stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, redear, crappie, and walleye. A state license is required (available at the lake office and some local businesses). Click for Patoka Lake Fishing Reports
• Frisbee Golf Course
• Hiking / Fitness / Bicycle Trails
• Hunting - Woodland game and waterfowl are available for the avid hunter during open seasons. Deer and squirrel are abundant in the area. All hunters are required to register and the check-in station.
• Interpretive / Recreational Programs - contact the Nature Center
• Picnicking / Shelterhouses Reservable - these have drinking water, flush toilets, grills, and picnic tables
• Nature Center (812-685-2447) - slide shows, films, nature hikes, raptors, and more
• Swimming / Beach - 1200 feet of sand; open Memorial Day to Labor Day; modern bath-house provides showers (solar heated), dressing facilities, restrooms, and food concessions
• Waterskiing