Editor’s note: The J.C. Murphey Lake is currently under maintenance and will not open until 2024.

Few things are as wonderful as the great outdoors, and Indiana is one of those states that emphasizes the word “great”. After all, there are more than a handful of amazing lakes in Indiana, all of which are worth visiting – including the ones that are a little off the beaten path. Indiana is a relatively rural state, but it doesn’t have many places one might consider “remote”, though there is one little spot, in particular, I’d like to take a moment to appreciate. It’s the absolutely majestic Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area, and when I say it’s beautiful, I mean it’s gorgeous. Let’s check out this remote place in Indiana:

Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area is a place with awesome long-range views of the Indiana countryside, a sparkling clean lake with plenty of fish, and lots to see.
Kyle Phillips/Google Local
Conveniently located in the middle of nowhere (also known as Benton County), the rural nature of this preserve ensures that it's one of the quietest, most peaceful places in the state.
It's 9,956 incredible acres of gorgeous, well-kept natural lands, including a lake, rolling dunes, an oak savanna, and more.
Christopher Light/Google Local
It's perfect for a day trip, given that there's so much to see. You can do it in a day - just try not to linger too long at any one place (good luck).
Of all the things to do around here, boating is among the most popular.
Dan Harris/Google Local
Officially christened the J.C. Murphey Lake upon its completion in 1951, there's 1200 acres of water to meander about and, if you so desire, fish.

Related Stories

Explore 50,000 Acres Of Trails, Flora, And Fauna At Indiana's Otherworldly Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge

Explore 50,000 Acres Of Trails, Flora, And Fauna At Indiana's Otherworldly Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge

 Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Indiana

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Indiana

 The Best Amish Restaurant In Indiana Is Hiding Miles Down A Rural Country Road, But It's So Worth The Effort

The Best Amish Restaurant In Indiana Is Hiding Miles Down A Rural Country Road, But It's So Worth The Effort
The lake is also excellent for canoeing and kayaking.
Brian Krzyzak/Google Local
Should you explore the entire lake, you'll also find that there's an intriguing wetland complex here, too, and it's definitely worth a gander.
Should you never want to leave (I don't blame you), you can also camp here as well.
Mindy Branson/Google Local
Sunrise on the lake is truly something you'll want to experience at least once.
Other onsite activities include hunting, trapping, a shooting range, and lots of wildlife viewing.
Mindy Branson/Google Local
You can also bike, forage, hike, picnic, and just about anything else your heart desires.
But be cautious, no matter what you do: you might just fall hopelessly in love with Willow Slough and all its wonders.
Mindy Branson/Google Local

For more information about this incredible, lesser-known nature preserve, be sure to visit the official DNR Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife website. Need some more awesome ideas for your next outdoor excursion? Check out some of the best spots for primitive camping in Indiana!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife, 1803 S 700 W, Morocco, IN 47963, USA