The Perfect Indiana Getaway To Take If You Have Been Dreaming Of The Beach

Pokagon State Park is a beautiful hidden gem nestled in Angola, Indiana that's home to a brilliant, sparkling blue lake known as Lake James. It's easily one of the big favorites when it comes to swimming lakes in the Hoosier State; while others in the Midwest might overlook it in favor of, say, Lake Michigan, many come to this little gem to relax when they've been dreaming of a classic beach day without the crowds. If you should ever find yourself dreaming of a beach day, come on out to Lake James at Pokagon State Park. I promise you'll love it.

As soon as you arrive, the first thing you're gonna want to do is sink your toes into the nice, warm sand.

It's truly very laidback here; sure, there's always a handful of other folks around, but it never gets anywhere nearly as crowded as some of our other beaches do.

There are actually two beaches on Lake James, both of which are wonderful for lounging, playing, and splashing around.

One of the two beaches has a playground and a beach house...

...as well as a snack bar! It's truly a classic day on the beach but without all the salt.

Open every year from the Saturday before Memorial Day until no later than Labor Day, you have plenty of time to plan your perfect Indiana beach day for this season.

My personal suggestion is that you show up early and during the week; this ensures that you might just have the whole place to yourself, if only for a little while.

Popular lake activities include swimming, fishing, and boating. Sunbathers adore the soft sand of the beaches for getting lost in a world of relaxation for a while.

Not sure you ever want to leave? No worries.

Camping is also a beloved things to do 'round here, and you can even reserve a cabin or two within Pokagon State Park and spend the night. Personally, I recommend a minimum of three nights to really experience it all, but you get to choose your own adventure here!

And trust me: few things are as tranquilizing to the soul as sunset - or sunrise - over Lake James.

Pokagon State Park: come out for the amazing beaches, but stay for... well, everything else!

For more information about Pokagon State Park and the beach day you can have at Lake James, be sure to visit the official Pokagon State Park website. There, you can also reserve a cabin ahead of time. Enjoy!

Should a cabin at the park not quite be your thing, no worries - check out all the places you can hang your hat from our friends at VRBO. Do you have a favorite beach in Indiana? Tell me about it.