Lake Life 101

Surrounded by Water, Built for Connection: Your Indiana Lake Life Getaway Starts Here

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS....

The Angola and Steuben County lake region is filled with family-friendly adventure in every season — from sunny beach days and boating on the Chain of Lakes to scenic park trails, charming downtown spots, and iconic winter thrills. Explore our guide below to start planning your getaway and see why lake life here is a favorite year-round.

Hiking Trails...

  • Pokagon State Park features miles of wooded trails, lake overlooks, wetlands, and rolling hills perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers. Trails range from short, easy loops to longer scenic hikes.

  • Trine State Recreation Area is a quieter and more peaceful, with boardwalks, wooded paths, and great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

  • Marsh Lake Wetlands is a serene natural area with flat, easy-going trails ideal for younger kids and relaxed family walks.

WATER ACTIVITIES...

  • Jimmerson Lake & the Chain of Lakes (At Your Doorstep) Boating, tubing, wake surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming. Bring your own boat or rent one locally to explore Jimmerson, Lake James, and Snow Lake in one trip.

  • Pokagon State Park Beach on Lake James A family-friendly swim area with soft sand, designated swimming zones, concessions, and restrooms.

  • Several marinas offer pontoons, fishing boats, and water sport rentals for a hassle-free lake day. We recommend The Corner Landing. It's walking distance to Lake Life and has all your boating day essentials.

  • Rent kayaks, paddle boards, paddle boats, and row boats at the Pokagon State Park.

  • The sandbar at Lake James is a famous, boat-access-only gathering spot in a sheltered cove, known for lively weekend parties with music, volleyball, and large crowds

Adventure Activities

Winter Activities...

HISTORIC SPOTS...

  • Downtown Angola is a charming town square with the historic Civil War monument at its center. Browse boutiques, enjoy local restaurants, or grab ice cream after dinner.

  • CCC Structures in Pokagon State Park Stone shelters, walls, and trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s—beautiful and educational for families.

  • Fremont Historical Village is a small-but-interesting historical area with preserved buildings and local stories that highlight the region’s past.

  • Indiana Rail Experience offers vintage-train rides aboard restored steam or diesel locomotives, giving families and visitors a chance to experience historic rail travel with a variety of excursions — from short ice-cream rides to full-day scenic trips.

WHERE TO STAY...

Whether you’re craving long days on the water, cozy evenings by the lake, or a peaceful family retreat, Lake Life 101 is the perfect home base for your getaway. Our private, fully equipped lakefront home sleeps up to 12 and sits directly on Jimmerson Lake with easy access to the entire Chain of Lakes. Looking for more outdoor time? The area also offers beautiful parks, beaches, and waterfront recreation just minutes away.

  • 5 bedrooms + 3 full bathrooms – comfortably sleeps large families and groups

  • Huge main kitchen for gathering and cooking together

  • Secondary kitchen for added convenience (w/ all appliances)

  • Two spacious living areas, both with beautiful lake views

  • Two full floors of covered outdoor living space overlooking the water

  • Private dock access for your boat (or a nearby rental)

  • Walkable to the Four Corners area – restaurants, bars, ice cream, boat ramp, and boat rental just steps away

  • Direct lakefront on Jimmerson Lake with access to the full Chain of Lakes

Fuel Up, Wind Down

Whether the day starts with coffee on the deck, calls for a fast lunch between lake adventures, or ends with a glass of wine overlooking the water, you’ll find great options all around Jimmerson Lake. From walkable Four Corners spots to local diners and lakeside bars, here’s where we love to eat, drink, and kick back — no reservations needed.

Casual & Family-Friendly

Easy, satisfying options for solo cravings, family dinners, or feeding a crowd without the fuss.

  • 4 Korners Bar & Grill (Walkable) A local favorite right in the Four Corners area with breakfast all day, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere—easy walking distance from the house.

  • Tom's Donuts is a beloved local bakery known as “The Donut Capital of the World,” where fresh, hand-made donuts and classic breakfast treats are served daily in a fun, nostalgic setting. Also serving coney dogs, burgers, & coffee. Walkable from Lake Life 101

  • Acapulco Mexican Grill (Walkable) serves up flavorful Mexican dishes — from sizzling fajitas and tacos to burritos, enchiladas, and refreshing margaritas — in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Generous portions and a menu suited to groups and families, it’s a go-to spot for a satisfying, relaxed meal after a day on the water or exploring the area.

  • YoYo’s Frozen Yogurt + Coffee Bar (Walkable) Fun dessert stop plus espresso drinks for a laid-back treat.

  • The Waterfront Bistro (Walkable) offers an upscale dining experience with beautiful channel-front views and a menu of grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and pasta dishes paired with expertly crafted cocktails. It is a higher-end spots—perfect for a special night out by the water.

  • The Lake Shack on Snow Lake Dock and dine at The Lake Shack on Snow Lake — a no-frills bar & grill with a true lake-shack vibe. Perfect for casual meals, cold drinks, or grabbing a beer after a day on the water.

  • The 6 on James serves up hearty American fare in a relaxed atmosphere — with standout dishes like burgers, tacos, steaks, and craft pizzas. On top of that, it’s a go-to spot for drinks: the bar features a huge bourbon and craft beer selection & live music on many nights.

  • Caruso's Restaurant is a family-owned Italian-American favorite in Angola, serving house-made pasta, sauces, and classic dishes created from family recipes for over 45 years

  • Sutton’s Deli (Downtown Angola) Perfect for sandwiches, baked goods, and grab-and-go items for a beach or boat day.

  • Clay’s Family Restaurant (Angola) Classic comfort foods, generous portions, and a local favorite for decades.

  • Timbers Steakhouse & Seafood A sit-down option with hearty meals and a comfortable atmosphere.

  • Jed's BBQ & Brew Southern style wings in a sports bar atmosphere

  • The Backyard Creamery & Mini Golf 18-hole mini golf and ice cream

Drinks & Down Time

Perfect for date nights, relaxing evenings, or post-lake sips.

  • Chapman’s Brewing Company (Angola) Craft beers, seasonals, and a relaxed taproom atmosphere.

  • Satek Winery is northeast Indiana’s first winery and has been serving fine wines since 2001. Enjoy free wine tasting seven days a week.

  • Cork & Barrel, open evenings only, is the place for craft cocktails as well as charcuterie boards, baked brie, spinach dip, salmon bites, sliders and soup. A variety of signature cocktails, ciders, beer and wine is served. Musical entertainment on the weekends.

  • Gage Side Cafe Quaint café located on beautiful Lake Gage in Steuben County. Quality wine, beer and delicious food options. Wine Slushies always available!

  • The 6 on James is known for its impressive bourbon and craft beer selection, The 6 on James is a top pick for a relaxed night out. Add in frequent live music and a lively bar scene, and it’s no surprise this spot is a local favorite. (The 6 on James also has a full food menu.)

Groceries & Snacks

Whether you’re planning big family meals at the lake house or just need snacks, ice, and a bottle of wine for sunset on the dock, there are several convenient grocery and market stops nearby. Here’s where to stock up, grab what you forgot, or pick up a few local favorites.

  • Walmart Supercenter (Angola – ~10 minutes) Full grocery selection, ideal for big hauling at the start of your stay.

  • Meijer (Angola – ~12 minutes) Another go-to option for groceries, snacks, toiletries, and anything you forgot.

  • Angola Farmers’ Market Seasonal, Downtown) Fresh produce, local treats, flowers, and bakery items—great for stocking up before a lake day.