Lake Shafer Area
4.5(45)google
LakeBoatingWater ActivityFishingSummer RetreatOutdoor
Overview
Lake Shafer is one of two reservoirs located in the Twin Lakes area of Monticello, Indiana. It was created along with Lake Freeman in the 1920s when two dams were built outside of Monticello on the Tippecanoe River. It remains a popular recreational area and helps generate an estimated $70 million in tourism revenue for White County.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration0.5-1 day
Best TimeJuly and August are unparalleled for high-energy jet-skiing and boating, while late September through October offers serene early autumn mornings. Scout the lakefront between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM when dense morning mist rises off the water surface, creating a surreal framing element alongside custom resort cottages and vibrant changing leaves.
Getting TherePositioned just north of downtown Monticello, Indiana. Accessible strictly via personal vehicle. Cruise up I-65 N to Exit 178, take US-231 North straight into the city center, and utilize State Road 39 which hugs the western contours of the lake corridor. Multiple free public boat ramps and gravel pull-offs line the waterfront highways.
Travel Tips
- Lake Shafer is a hydro-regulated reservoir. Heavy weekend motorized watercraft traffic generates violent cross-wake waves; low-power kayaks and paddleboards capsize easily and must maintain shoreline safety.
- The dual-track rail bridge bisecting the lake is an active freight corridor. Fishing or anchoring near piers is strictly illegal; railroad police issue federal trespassing citations to vessels inside the security zone.
- Most lakeside commercial docks and cabin rentals close down and drain water pipes post-frost in mid-October. Boat rentals cease operations fully; winter visitors must haul all self-sustained rations and emergency fuel.
Reviews
Positive
- Great for family vacations with plenty of fun boat rentals available on the lake, especially near the Indiana Beach amusement park area.
- The water and surrounding scenery are beautiful at sunset, making it an excellent experience to just relax on a deck.
- There are many nice campgrounds and rental cabins around with good amenities, perfect for a weekend getting close to nature.
- If you love water sports, the jet skiing and boating here will definitely satisfy you, and the atmosphere is very cheerful.
Heads up
- During the peak summer season, the lake gets overcrowded with speedboats and jet skis, making it wavy and quite noisy.
- Certain areas of the water look murky due to heavy boat traffic and lakeside development, and trash is occasionally seen floating.
- Some of the rental properties and older docks in the area are not well-maintained and look dated or run-down.
- It is highly commercialized, typically near the amusement park area, and restaurant and retail prices are higher than expected.