Mississinewa Lake
🎣 3,210-Acre Reservoir with 4 Recreation Areas, Bass & Crappie Fishing, and Year-Round Camping — A major central Indiana lake destination with marina access, swimming beach, 10+ miles of trails, and disc golf — Miami County, Indiana
Mississinewa Lake is a 3,210-acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir near Peru, Indiana, that serves as the centerpiece of one of the state’s most complete outdoor recreation complexes. The lake property encompasses four distinct State Recreation Areas — Miami, Red Bridge, Frances Slocum, and Pearson Mill — each offering different camping, fishing, and trail experiences spread across thousands of acres of woods, prairies, and shoreline.
Built for flood control on the Mississinewa River (a tributary of the Wabash), the reservoir has become central Indiana’s go-to destination for bass and crappie fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. With four boat ramps, a marina, swimming beach, and hundreds of campsites ranging from full-hookup to primitive, Mississinewa Lake offers something for every level of outdoor enthusiast.
Recreation Areas
| Area | Focus | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Miami SRA | Primary lake access | Marina, boat ramp, campground, beach, fishing pier |
| Red Bridge SRA | Camping + trails | Modern campground, disc golf, trails |
| Frances Slocum SRA | Family-friendly | Easy access trail (paved), playground, picnic areas |
| Pearson Mill SRA | Quiet/primitive | Non-electric sites, wildlife viewing, solitude |
Fishing
| Species | Best Season | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Spring–Fall | Coves, submerged timber |
| Crappie | Spring (Apr–May) | Standing timber areas, brush piles |
| White Bass | Spring run (Apr) | River channel, below dam |
| Channel Catfish | Summer nights | Fishing piers, deep holes |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | Summer | Shoreline, docks |
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Heron Trail | 2.5 mi | Moderate | Lake/dam views, scenic overlooks |
| Lost Sister Trail | 2.5 mi | Moderate | Self-guided loop, mature hardwoods |
| Moswa Trail | 1.5 mi | Moderate | Meadows, young forest |
| Shepoconnah Trail | 1.0 mi | Easy | Prairie and woodland |
| Easy Access Trail | 0.4 mi | Easy (paved) | ADA accessible, Frances Slocum area |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | 55–75°F | Crappie/white bass run, wildflowers, turkey season |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 75–88°F | Swimming beach, boating, full campgrounds, water skiing |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 45–70°F | Fall foliage, bass fishing, eagle migration |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | 20–40°F | Ice fishing (conditions permitting), eagle watching |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gate Fee | $7/vehicle (IN) / $9 (out-of-state) | Annual pass $50 |
| Electric Campsite | $20–$32/night | Varies by area and hookup level |
| Rent-a-Camp Cabin | ~$65/night | Basic cabin, bring bedding |
| Boat Launch | Included with gate fee | 4 ramps available |
| Weekend Camping | $47–$73 | 2 nights + gate fee |
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Mississinewa Lake?
3,210 acres of water surface with extensive shoreline. The reservoir is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control.
Is the swimming beach open?
The beach at Miami SRA is typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day. No lifeguards — swim at your own risk.
Can I boat on the lake?
Yes. Motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted. Four boat ramps and a marina are available. Water skiing and wakeboarding are allowed.
Is there a marina?
Yes, at the Miami SRA. Slip rentals, fuel, and basic supplies available during boating season.
Are reservations required for camping?
Recommended, especially for peak season weekends (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Reserve online through the Indiana DNR reservation system.
What is the Lost Sister Trail named after?
The Frances Slocum area is named after Frances Slocum, a colonial woman captured by Lenape in 1778 who lived among the Miami tribe for 59 years. The “Lost Sister” trail references her story.
Is there ice fishing?
Yes, when conditions allow. Ice must be safe thickness. Crappie and bluegill are common winter catches.
How far from Indianapolis?
About 75 miles (1.25 hours) north via US-31 through Kokomo.
🎣 Fish Mississinewa Lake
Four recreation areas, a 3,210-acre reservoir, and some of the best crappie fishing in central Indiana. Whether you’re camping for the weekend or launching for the day, Mississinewa delivers.
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