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Wasatch Lake, A Country Retreat
published February, 2004

Winding down tree-canopied country roads following the coarse of a stream, it’s hard to believe you’re only an hour from Indianapolis. Hearing the ice sing in the spring thaw from the shore of Wasatch Lake, you know you’re worlds away from the city.

Wasatch Lake is a 50-acre lake in the middle of 250 wooded acres in Owen County, near Poland. Nine cabins sit nestled in the woods and lakeside, each with a private dock and a boat for guests. Fourteen miles of trails throughout the property offer plenty of space to explore.

Wasatch is a native American name for “splendid vistas”, and splendid is an apt description for this natural wonderland. Follow the signs to Wasatch Lake, and you’ll find yourself removed from any sights or sounds associated with city life. You won’t hear traffic or even the ringing of your cell phone, but you’ll see stars at night like you may never have seen.

One of the cabins you can rent at Wasatch Lake

The first cabin was built at Wasatch in 1952 by the original owner, Clifford Barnes so he would have a place to go fishing. Over the years different owners had their own reasons to build additional cabins, with most built in the early to mid-1960s. At one time a group of doctors even owned the property, and in an attempt to make a little money, they rented the cabins out, put ski ramps in the lake and called it a skiing academy.

Today Wasatch Lake is owned by Turner Woodard and managed by Eldie and Marsha Miller, who live on the property and are full-time caretakers. There are six lake-side cabins and one in the woods available for guests. Two of the cabins sleep up to eight people, and children and leashed pets are always welcome. Each cabin is furnished with linens, towels, TV and VCR, and a fireplace complete with all the cut, stacked firewood you will need. With each cabin guests also have use of a boat and fishing permit, a barbecue grill, firepit, refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishes and cookware. Bring your own food. Every cabin is unique, but the decor in each will make you feel right at home in the woods.

Outdoor Activities

A hand-carved, wooden seat from Africa.

In addition to 14 miles of hiking trails, the lake is perfect for swimming, fishing or boating. There is a beach area, and if you care to fish the lake is stocked twice a year with bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish. Electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake, but are not provided. Mountain biking and even tennis is available, “but you have to really want to play”, Mr. Miller smiles. The court is about a 10 to 15 minute walk into the woods. Guests also enjoy bonfires each Saturday night, weather permitting, and hayrides in the fall.

Long House Lodge

Guests are welcome to use the lodge, with its rich, inviting decor. It is filled with such rarities as a hand-carved wooden seat from Africa, a giant stuffed polar bear and an enormous fireplace. The lodge is also available for private parties, wedding receptions, or family reunions. Sit at the fireplace and enjoy a beautiful view of the lake. There is also an antique gift shop in the lodge.

Wasatch Lake is a great getaway for families, friends or couples. The cozy cabins are open year-round, as nature knows no off-season.


For reservations call 317-488-7373 Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm or any time 812-986-6374 and leave a message. Cabins are generally rented for a minimum of two nights, with weekend rates $250 to $350 per weekend and weeknights $100 to $175 per night. Weeknight packages are also available. See www.wasatchlake.com.

The interior of the lodge.

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