The Midwest's Best-Kept Secret Is This Scenic Uncrowded Lake Paradise That's Been Compared To Tahoe

Tahoe City is one of the best lake towns in America. The glistening blue waters, the soaring mountains, and the wealth of nearby amenities make Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City a must-visit destination for travelers around the world. However, folks traveling on a budget or seeking a less touristy destination will find a wonderful alternative in Patoka Lake. Hidden in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, Patoka Lake is an aberration in the Midwestern landscape. Instead of cornfields and grazing cattle, it's a shocking doppelganger for the famous lake in the Sierra Nevadas.

Of course, Patoka Lake isn't quite as dramatic as Lake Tahoe. But with blue waters, forested hills in the distance, and quick access to a variety of watersports, it makes for a serene getaway in the heart of the Midwest. It also has much smaller crowds than Tahoe, though it can still be quite lively during the summer. Offering a sandy beach, cabin rentals, hiking trails, and even a nature center, Patoka Lake is an underrated destination just begging to be explored.

Patoka Lake and its many branches sprawl over 8,800 acres, giving you plenty of coves and shoreline to enjoy. If you're interested in birdwatching, be sure to bring a pair of binoculars — bald eagle and osprey are commonly seen above its glimmering waters. Prefer to get lost in the surrounding hills? Head out on the rugged Main Trail. This starts at the Nature Center before meandering into the forest for 6.5 miles. A shorter excursion can be had on the Wildlife Management Demonstration Trail. It's only 2 miles long, but you'll find various markers giving you additional info about the region's flora and fauna.

No trip to Patoka Lake is complete without dipping your toes in the water. It's often cited as one of the cleanest lakes in the Midwest, and Patoka Lake Beach makes it easy to enjoy its calm shores. You'll enjoy views of southern Indiana's hills in the distance, and there's even a concession stand on site if you work up an appetite. Prefer to get on the water? Snag a boat or waverunner rental from Hoosier Hills Marina.

Hiking, swimming, and boating are the most popular ways to spend time at Patoka Lake, but there's so much more to enjoy in and around the body of water. Sunflower fields are known to pop up on the north side of the park, a disc golf course lets you and your fellow travelers enjoy some friendly competition, and the Patoka Lake Interpretive Center discusses the park's history and the many creatures calling it home.

Patoka Lake is hidden away in the middle of the wilderness, with forests, waterways, and farmland making up most of the landscape. Yet it's just an hour from Louisville, giving visitors quick access to an international airport. Folks who fly into this charming city should spend a few hours exploring its artsiest district to enjoy innovative restaurants and trendy shops.

Plenty of camping can be found near Patoka Lake, so pack a tent or bring your RV if you'd like to be close to its shimmering waters. Patoka Lake Marina and Lodging has some of the most intriguing accommodations, as you can rent a houseboat or floating cabin. You're also just down the road from French Lick, home to a luxury resort with European charm. Give it a look if you'd like to relax in luxury after your adventures.

Visiting Patoka Lake in the warm summer months is most popular, as it allows you to fully enjoy its lovely waters and superb hiking trails. It's not too crowded during the week, though the weekend can get busy. Winter visitors might not get as much enjoyment out of the lake, but many of the surrounding trails are converted into cross-country skiing tracks. It's also bound to be much quieter, and folks seeking a truly serene getaway will find plenty to love about Patoka Lake during the snowy season.