Stay in This Charming Indiana Town Just Minutes From Summit Lake State Park

Almost 400,000 people visit Summit Lake State Park in Indiana to fish, swim, paddle, or hike near the 800-acre lake. Many visitors will camp inside the park. Others will make the default choice to stay in New Castle (the city where the park is located) to take advantage of the modern conveniences, while overlooking the other small towns near Summit Lake State Park. One of which is Knightstown, a quaint community of about 2,200 residents, where everyone seems to know each other. Since the town is only a 25-mile drive from the park, it would make a great place to set up camp (literally). Its walkable downtown, historical sites, and outdoor recreation only add to its appeal. And here’s why we think you should visit.  

Why This Town is the Perfect Base for Summit Lake State Park

From the heart of New Castle, Knightstown is a quick 15-mile drive mostly along Indiana State Road 3. The drive is quite pleasant because you’ll be cruising through the countryside, past wide-open meadows, expansive farmlands, and the occasional small community. On those long uninterrupted stretches, you’ll get a true glimpse of classic Midwestern rural scenery. Once you get to Knightstown, expect to find a quintessential Indiana small town lined with brick storefronts housing cafes, boutiques, and local businesses. Depending on when you visit, you might catch a local event in the town’s square. 

For anyone road-tripping along the Historic National Road, Knightstown would be one of the stops along the way, as the scenic byway cuts through the downtown. Additionally, the town is only 40 minutes from Indianapolis, so visitors will have easy access to the city. Not only is this hidden gem town near Summit Lake State Park a great place to visit, but it’s also a convenient spot to stay.   

What to Do in Knightstown, Indiana

Hoosiers know that Knightstown is where the classic 1986 movie Hoosiers was filmed. Many visitors will stop to see the Knightstown Gymnasium, aka the Hoosiers' Gym, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you’re a fan of the movie (and even if you’re not), the building is a cool place to see memorabilia while recognizing scenes from the movie. The gym is also a stop on the Historic Architecture Walking Tour, where you can gaze at the 19th-century buildings and learn the history of the town. 

Along the way, you can browse the boutiques and antique shops and stop and grab a coffee and a freshly baked donut from Ye Olde Corner Bakery, the cutest little bakery on Main Street. The bakery is open from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m from Wednesday to Sunday, so you can easily start your mornings here. If you want to pick up some cute handmade gifts or home decor, Knightstown Makers Market would be your go-to spot. Traveling with the little ones? Take them to burn some energy at the splash pad at Sunset Park. There's also a creek to fish and play. 

Of course, a visit to Summit Lake State Park, one of Indiana’s best state parks, is a must. You can fill your day spotting wildlife while hiking, or you can paddle, boat, or fish on the scenic lake. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, pack a cooler and spend the day at the lakeside beach. The best part? You'll have a full day at the park, then it will only be a short drive back to Knightstown to spend an evening by a campfire. 

Where to Stay Nearby

If you’re visiting with the kids, the family-friendly Jellystone Park Indianapolis East resort would be the obvious place to stay. At the resort, you can pitch a tent, stay in an RV (your own or rent one from the resort), sleep in a cool covered wagon, or luxuriate in a waterfront cottage. As part of the nationally recognized Jellystone Park brand, your entire family can participate in themed activities hosted by Yogi Bear and his friends. 

Plus, there are tons of amenities like swimming, water sports, rides, arts and crafts, and more to keep the kiddos busy. If you want a low-key rustic stay, Pirate Woods campsite is set on 45 acres in secluded woodlands. The area is brimming with wildlife; there are walking paths, and the Blue River is nearby if you want to launch a kayak. And it’s only a two-minute drive from town in case you want to grab something to eat. This would be a good spot for a solo traveler or true outdoor enthusiasts who prefer to end the day by a crackling campfire.

What to Know Before You Go

Summit Lake State Park is busier during the summer season. So, expect the lake to have more traffic then, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting in the summer is not a bad thing, though, because Knightstown comes alive with lots of events and festivals, including its annual Jubilee Days. The multi-day festival with a parade and carnival rides is typically held in mid-August and would be a great way to connect more with the folks in town. Or you can visit in the fall for the harvest season. During this time, the park will be less crowded, so expect a more peaceful escape in nature. 

The next time you find yourself driving along the Historic National Road or planning a trip to Summit Lake State Park, don’t just treat Knightstown as a pit stop. This small town in Indiana has plenty to entertain you and your family before you head back home. Stay for a while, take the historic tour, visit the famous gym, paddle or fish along the waterways, or play at one of the best resort campgrounds in Indiana. Sounds like a wonderful time to me.