On the water.
Boating. This is a powerboat and pontoon lake. Speed limits vary by area — the main open water section is wide open, the channels are no-wake. Plenty of coves for anchoring up for an afternoon.
Renting a boat. Several local outfits rent pontoons by the day; worth it if you don't have your own. Book ahead on summer weekends.
Fishing. Bass, crappie, and saugeye are the main targets. Early morning or dusk off a dock gets you surprisingly good results.
Kayak / paddleboard. Calmer corners like Long Island and Blackhawk Island are ideal. Mornings are glass.
Food and drinks.
The Brewfontaine (Bellefontaine, ~15 min south) — actual craft beer scene, good burgers. Worth the short drive.
Acapulco Mexican (on the lake) — easy local stop with a patio.
Pizza Rustica — wood-fired, family-friendly.
If you want groceries or supplies, there's a Walmart and a Kroger in Bellefontaine, 15 minutes south of the lake.
Beyond the water.
Ohio Caverns (20 min) — underground tour, 54° year-round, good for a rainy afternoon or bringing the kids.
Campbell Hill (10 min) — highest point in Ohio. Quick stop for the novelty and a photo.
Downtown Bellefontaine (15 min) — small, walkable, with the narrowest street in the US as a bit of local trivia.
Where to stay on the water.
Most Indian Lake rentals are a block or two off the water. Our Hickory Dickory Dock is directly on the lake with a private dock — sized for a full boat plus a kayak or two, plus a patio fireplace and hot tub right on the water.
Best weekends to go.
Peak: Memorial Day through Labor Day. Book early (8+ weeks for summer weekends).
Shoulder: May and September — the water's usable, the lake's quieter, rates are better.
Off-season: October through April. Quiet, beautiful in a stark way, and the hot tub is even more fun in cold weather.