Summit Lake State Park

For dining near Summit Lake State Park, Bobcats Pizza King is a popular choice. This family-friendly eatery serves a variety of pizzas and sandwiches, offering a relaxed atmosphere with sports and fast service. While there are limited options for other restaurants with links in the immediate area, visitors often appreciate the casual dining experience provided by local establishments.

The park itself does not offer on-site dining but is close to towns where additional dining options can be found.

There are no traditional hotels directly at Summit Lake State Park. However, the park offers 120 electric campsites for those who prefer to stay overnight amidst nature. For hotel accommodations, options might be limited in the immediate vicinity, but nearby towns such as New Castle or larger cities like Indianapolis offer more choices. The park's focus is on outdoor activities and camping experiences.

Summit Lake State Park is well-equipped with amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park features a modern beach bathhouse with restrooms and concessions, making it a comfortable haven for those enjoying the lake. Additionally, three boat ramps are available for launching privately owned craft, and boat rentals include options like paddleboats and kayaks. Visitors can also find picnic areas with shelters, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The campground offers drinking water, showers, and toilets, making stays convenient for campers.

The park offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests. Swimming is a popular activity during the warmer months at the designated beach area. Fishing is another favorite pastime, with plenty of bass, sunfish, and crappies to catch. For those who enjoy getting around on water, canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals are available. Hiking enthusiasts can explore six trails, including the Beach Trail and Self-Guided Nature Trail, offering scenic views of the lake and opportunities for bird watching.

During winter, activities like ice fishing are also available.

Summit Lake State Park includes accessible facilities to ensure that visitors with disabilities can fully enjoy the park's offerings. The Beach Trail, for example, is designed to be accessible with a stable surface and minimal slopes, allowing easier navigation for those with mobility needs. Additionally, restrooms and parking areas are wheelchair accessible, providing convenience and inclusivity for all visitors.

Parking at Summit Lake State Park is generally accessible and convenient for visitors. There are no specific parking fees beyond the general admission charges of $7 for Indiana residents and $9 for out-of-state visitors. Parking areas are located near the beach, boat ramps, and other key attractions within the park, ensuring easy access to facilities.

One of the interesting historical facts about Summit Lake is that it became Indiana's 19th state park in 1988, following years of development from a flood-control project. The park's location at a high elevation not only offers scenic views but also provides diverse habitats for wildlife. Additionally, Summit Lake State Park is one of the locations in Indiana that will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, making it a special destination for this event.

The park's mixed landscape of woodlands and prairies creates a haven for over 100 species of birds, attracting many bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Beyond the lake and hiking trails, Summit Lake State Park offers several attractions. The Zeigler Woods Nature Preserve, located at the southwest corner of the park, is Henry County's first dedicated nature preserve and provides a unique opportunity to explore rich flora and fauna with minimal human disturbance. The park also hosts interpretive naturalist services during certain times of the year, offering educational insights into its natural environment.

Nearby attractions include local towns with historic sites and cultural events.