History of Patoka Lake
Before the lake was here, the Patoka River ran through the area. There was abundant timber and game. Early settlers made numerous small farms. The Nature Center is a great place to explore more about history of Patoka Lake.
A brief history of Patoka Lake
They decided to build Patoka Lake in 1965. It was completed in 1978. Patoka Lake was created as a joint venture between the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Indiana Department of natural resources. The lake covers 8,800 acres and is Indiana’s 2nd largest reservoir. The lake has about 161 miles of shoreline.
The construction of Patoka Lake began with the building of a 145 foot tall rockfill earthen dam, which was designed to impound the waters of the Patoka River. The primary reason to build the dam was for flood control. Jasper has been saved from several floods already because of the dam.
Despite its size and abundance of natural resources, Patoka Lake has a rich history that is still being developed today. Over the years, the area has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, who come to enjoy the beautiful landscape and diverse ecosystem of this unique reservoir. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, Patoka Lake is sure to delight and inspire!
