🌤 Weather at Pokagon State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26–69 °F | 58–82 °F | 30–74 °F | 16–36 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Angola, 3 mi away, elevation 1,020 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Every winter, thousands of thrill-seekers flock to Pokagon State Park in northeastern Indiana for one of the most unique winter attractions in the Midwest—a 1,780-foot refrigerated toboggan run that reaches speeds of 35-40 miles per hour.
But Pokagon is much more than its famous toboggan. Nestled on the shores of Lake James, one of Indiana’s largest natural lakes, this 1,260-acre park offers year-round outdoor adventures from the historic Potawatomi Inn resort to a 200-acre buffalo preserve, 14 miles of hiking trails, and exceptional fishing.
Whether you’re racing down the toboggan track in winter, paddling Lake James in summer, or spotting buffalo and wildlife in any season, Pokagon delivers Indiana adventure at its finest.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Angola, Indiana (Steuben County) |
| 🗺️ Region | Northeast Indiana |
| 📐 Total Area | 1,260 acres |
| 🌊 Lake | Lake James (one of Indiana’s largest) |
| 🥾 Trail Miles | 14 miles |
| 📞 Phone | (260) 833-2012 |
The Famous Toboggan Run
Pokagon’s refrigerated twin-track toboggan run is legendary—and for good reason. Unlike natural snow runs, this refrigerated track operates all winter regardless of snowfall!
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Length | 1,780 feet |
| 📐 Height | 90 feet (tower start) |
| 🚀 Speed | 35-40 mph |
| ⏱️ Ride Time | 20-30 seconds |
| 💵 Rental Cost | $20/hour per toboggan |
| 👥 Capacity | Up to 4 people per toboggan |
2025-2026 Season Schedule
| Period | Hours |
|---|---|
| 📅 Regular Weekends | Sat-Sun 10am-5:30pm (Nov 28 – Mar 1) |
| 🦃 Thanksgiving Weekend | Fri-Sun 10am-5:30pm (closed Thanksgiving Day) |
| 🎄 Winter Break | Daily 10am-5:30pm (Dec 20 – Jan 4, closed Christmas) |
| 🇺🇸 MLK Day | Monday 10am-5:30pm |
| 🇺🇸 Presidents Day | Monday 10am-5:30pm |
Requirements: Driver’s license or state ID required as deposit. Gloves must be worn. Closes at 0°F or below.
Entry Fees
| Vehicle Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| 🚗 Indiana Residents | $7/vehicle |
| 🚗 Out-of-State | $9/vehicle |
| 🛷 Toboggan Rental | $20/hour |
| ⛷️ Cross-Country Skis | $5-8/hour |
| 🥾 Snowshoes | $10/hour |
Potawatomi Inn Resort
The Potawatomi Inn is Indiana’s premier state park lodge, offering year-round accommodations on the shores of Lake James. Named after the Potawatomi Native American tribe who once inhabited this region, the inn combines comfort with natural beauty.
- 🏨 Lakefront rooms with stunning views
- 🏊 Indoor heated pool
- 🎮 Game room
- 🍽️ On-site dining
- 🧘 Conference facilities
200-Acre Buffalo Preserve
One of Pokagon’s hidden gems is its 200-acre buffalo preserve. Take a tour to see these majestic animals roaming in their natural grassland habitat—a rare opportunity in the Midwest!
Year-Round Activities
| Activity | Season |
|---|---|
| 🛷 Toboggan Run | Winter (Nov-Mar) |
| ⛷️ Cross-Country Skiing | Winter |
| 🥾 Snowshoeing | Winter |
| ⛸️ Ice Skating | Winter |
| 🎣 Ice Fishing | Winter (when safe) |
| 🛶 Boating/Paddling | Summer |
| 🎣 Fishing (Lake James) | Year-round |
| 🥾 Hiking (14 miles) | Year-round |
| 🦬 Buffalo Preserve Tours | Year-round |
| 🦅 Birdwatching | Year-round |
Nature Center
The park’s Nature Center features educational exhibits and the famous “Woodland Window”—a large viewing area perfect for birdwatching in comfort. Rangers offer interpretive programs throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does the Pokagon toboggan go?
The Pokagon toboggan run reaches speeds of 35-40 miles per hour during a thrilling 20-30 second ride down the 1,780-foot refrigerated track from a 90-foot tower. It’s one of the most exciting winter attractions in the Midwest!
Does the toboggan run need snow?
No! The Pokagon toboggan is a refrigerated twin track, which means it operates regardless of natural snowfall. The track is artificially cooled and runs all winter from late November through early March, weather permitting (closes at 0°F or below).
How much does the toboggan cost?
Toboggan rentals are $20 per hour per toboggan (tax included). Each toboggan holds up to 4 people. You’ll also need a driver’s license or state ID as a deposit, and gloves are required to ride. Park entry is $7/vehicle (IN) or $9 (out-of-state).
Can you stay overnight at Pokagon?
Yes! The Potawatomi Inn is a year-round resort on Lake James with lakefront rooms, an indoor heated pool, game room, and on-site dining. It’s the perfect base camp for toboggan adventures or summer lake activities.
What is the buffalo preserve at Pokagon?
Pokagon features a 200-acre buffalo preserve where you can see American bison roaming in their natural grassland habitat. Tours are available—it’s a rare chance to see these majestic animals in the Midwest!
Can you fish at Pokagon State Park?
Absolutely! Lake James is one of Indiana’s largest natural lakes and is famous for smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing. Ice fishing is also popular in winter (when conditions are safe and with proper permits).
More parks nearby: Ouabache State Park is elsewhere in the state, while Salamonie Lake State Park lies elsewhere in the state.
Race Down Indiana’s Famous Toboggan!
Experience the thrill of a 1,780-foot refrigerated toboggan run, stay at the lakeside Potawatomi Inn, and explore 200 acres of buffalo country!
Explore More Indiana State Parks
Pokagon State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Indiana. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Indiana guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Pokagon State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed throughout Indiana state park properties, including trails, but must be on a 6-foot leash or in a cage at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft leash applies to the entire property; electric collars/fences do not substitute
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets (except service animals) are prohibited from swimming pools and beaches unless an area is specifically designated for pets
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly rooms and cabins at all seven Indiana State Park Inns accept dogs and cats up to 75 lbs, max two pets, for $25 per pet per night
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $25 per pet per night at State Park Inns' pet-friendly rooms/cabins
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- At eight reservoir properties (including Patoka, Brookville and Monroe) dogs may be off leash in lawful pursuit of wild animals or in licensed field trials
Are dogs allowed at Pokagon State Park?
Pets are allowed throughout Indiana state park properties, including trails, but must be on a 6-foot leash or in a cage at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via in.gov. More: Indiana state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
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