Patoka Lake Paddle and Swim with stop at German Cafe in French Lick!

Let's head back to the quarry at Patoka lake and enjoy the day swimming, exploring the area, and hanging out with some cool people.

The Plan:

We'll meet at the Little Patoka Boat Ramp at 9:00am eastern. We'll launch from there and paddle straight across the lake to the quarry. We have about a 2 mile open-water crossing. There is potential for some rough water due to speed boat traffic. Please know your abilities and be prepared. As always, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

After we get back to the quarry area, larger boat traffic can be limited due to the shallow crossing into that area. There are many areas for us to explore and swim in this section of the lake. There are some places with rocky beaches for us to pull up and hang out in shallow to deep water. There are also beautiful channels with high cliffs for us to paddle through and enjoy the natural beauty of this area. Wildlife viewing is as good as any place in Indiana and better than most. However, I've seen more osprey here than anywhere else in this region. Hopefully we'll see some osprey and catch them fishing (diving). It's always fun to watch them fish. Especially when they catch something!

We'll have lunch around 11:00am, so bring lunch ;) At some point in the day, someone will generally show a self-recovery technique or two. If anyone would be interested in teaching something, please let me know. The largest part of the day will just be hanging out with cool people, making friends, and enjoying a little of what this lake has to offer paddlers.

AFTERWARDS:
We're heading to French Lick for some German food at German Cafe. This place has some great food (I love the schnitzel) and service. Come on out!

WARNINGS:

The Indiana DNR non-motorized boat sticker is required for Patoka lake. It costs $5 and is available at most state park gate houses and offices. I'll have a few extra with me if anyone needs one. Please let me know in advance if you're planning on getting one from me.

This is an OPEN WATER paddle. There is no shade! Please be prepared with coverings, sunblock, and plenty of water. Don't forget your umbrella if you have one!

PADDLEBOARDS and INFLATABLES will not be allowed on this adventure unless you can convince me that you have the skills to keep up and safely make this OPEN WATER CROSSING. Please give me a call if you plan to bring either. I've had issues with both in the past and I'd prefer that if YOU have any doubts in your ability with either, that YOU err on the side of safety and join us on the next adventure. Thanks for understanding!

The event fee for this adventure will be $20/person. Solo kayak rentals will be $60 and tandems will be $100 and include paddle and lifejacket. I offer a 15% discount on rentals for military and first responders. Please message me if you need a rental.

I hope to see a ton of you out there. This is always a super fun day!