Olin Lake Nature Preserve

About Olin Lake

Olin Lake is the largest lake in Indiana with an undeveloped shoreline. The preserve surrounds the entire lake shoreline, protecting it from development in the future and preserving the pristine condition of this one of a kind lake. Other preserves that are adjoining the Olin Lake Preserve include the Peterman Nature Preserve, and the Martin Lake Nature Preserve.

The lake benefits all kind of outdoor enthusiasts. Popular water activities include;

        Canoeing/Kayaking

        Fishing

        Ice Fishing

        Swimming

        Nature Watching

Surrounding the lake, DNR maintained nature trails are located along the southern shoreline. The trail goes along the southeastern shore where large species of Sugar Maple, Beech, Hackenberry and Red Oak still stand. The trail ends up at the south edge of the lake.

 

Wildlife

At first glance, Olin lake may look like just another body of water with a woods around it. However, wildlife is abundant above water, below water, and along the shorelines. Birds, ducks, loons, Canada geese, Blue Herons and swans can be seen on the waters of this lake. Below water, turtles, fish, and clams all can be found. And, during warmer months of August and September, even "freshwater" jellyfish inhabit this lake.

 

  Protection

Since Olin Lake is a DNR protected nature preserve, laws governing its use have been put into place. All of these rules that are listed have been taken from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Rules are posted at the entrance to the Oliver Lake Nature Preserve trails. Water regulations can be found by clicking here.

The speed limit on the lake is IDLE. NO WAKE. According to IDNR IC 14-8-2-129 this means, "the slowest possible speed, NOT to exceed 5 mph, so as to maintain steerage and produce minimal wake." Help protect the natural shoreline of Olin Lake by not speeding or creating an unnecessary wake.

Olin Lake's waters are not accessible from it's shores, boats must be launched from the Oliver Lake public access.

 Nothing can be disturbed or removed.

 Littering is prohibited both on the trails and on the water.

 Hunting and trapping are not allowed.

If you observe illegal activity on the Olin Lake Nature Preserve or see a watercraft violating the 'Idle - No Wake' laws, get the boat's registration number and report it to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources or the LaGrange County Sheriff's Office.

IDNR - Division of Law Enforcement       (260) 244-3720

LaGrange County Sheriff's Department  (260) 463-7491