Ellettsville Indiana BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES


Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Ellettsville, Indiana.



1. Monroe Lake

Indiana’s Largest Lake. Spend the day at expansive Monroe Lake, featuring three lively public beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. Enjoy sandy shorelines, volleyball, sandcastle building, picnic spots, and wide-open views just minutes from Ellettsville.

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2. Fairfax State Recreation Area

Scenic Lakeside Escape. Dig your toes into the sand at Fairfax Beach, set along Monroe Lake's south shore with sweeping water vistas and easy swimming access. Amenities include modern bathhouses, picnic areas, and plenty of space for frisbee, sunbathing, and lakeside strolls.

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3. Paynetown State Recreation Area

Recreation Hub Beach. Explore Paynetown's broad sandy beach, where swimming, picnicking, and family fun reign all summer long. The area offers clean bathhouses, shaded picnic spots, and direct access to Monroe Lake for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

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4. Lake Lemon

Local Favorite Shoreline. Relax at Riddle Point Park's sandy beach on Lake Lemon, a beloved spot for swimming, sunbathing, and lakeside picnics. The tranquil setting features gentle water access, picnic tables, and scenic wildlife observation spots.

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5. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve

Adventure-Filled Beachfront. Launch your kayak or enjoy waterside picnics at Griffy Lake, where the small beach area offers peaceful views and wildlife spotting. The preserve's natural charm draws outdoor lovers for hiking, fishing, and paddle sports.

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6. Hardin Ridge Recreation Area

Forest-Edged Swimming Cove. Dive into the calm waters at Hardin Ridge's sandy swimming beach, set amid Hoosier National Forest with picnic areas and playgrounds nearby. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, hiking, and boating in a naturally shaded lakeside setting.

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7. Brown County State Park

Woodland Beach Retreat. Discover the designated swimming beach at Ogle Lake, nestled in Brown County State Park's rolling hills. After a swim, take advantage of nearby picnic shelters, hiking trails, and breathtaking forest views.

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8. Cataract Lake (Cagles Mill Lake)

Family-Friendly Shore. Cataract Lake's sandy public beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with easy access to boat rentals and scenic waterfall hikes. The laid-back lakeside vibe is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

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9. Patoka Lake

Sprawling Lakefront Playground. Experience Patoka Lake's wide beach, a regional hotspot for swimming, sand volleyball, and lakeside relaxation. Amenities include picnic shelters, bathhouses, and abundant space for water recreation and wildlife watching.

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10. Versailles State Park

Tranquil Lakeside Beach. Unwind at Versailles State Park's lakeside beach, where swimmers and sunbathers enjoy calm water, gentle sand, and shaded picnic grounds. The park's serene environment is perfect for quiet relaxation or family outings.

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