How do I access Raccoon State Recreation Area?

Raccoon State Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Indiana. The entrance fee is Entry Fee & Lake Permit Req.

What activities are available at Raccoon State Recreation Area?

Raccoon State Recreation Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Raccoon State Recreation Area?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Raccoon State Recreation Area?

The best time to paddle at Raccoon State Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Raccoon State Recreation Area?

Water conditions at Raccoon State Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Raccoon State Recreation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Raccoon State Recreation Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Photo by Temo Morales on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Raccoon State Recreation Area

Bellmore, IN · Boat Ramp · Public

Raccoon State Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Cecil M Harden Lake near Bellmore, Indiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Entry Fee & Lake Permit Req

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Raccoon State Recreation Area offers lake paddling on Cecil M Harden Lake in Indiana. Located near Bellmore.

Lake paddlers in Indiana will appreciate Raccoon State Recreation Area, which offers direct access to Cecil M Harden Lake and its surrounding waters.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and ada accessible.

Raccoon State Recreation Area sits about 5 min from Bellmore, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Raccoon State Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Raccoon State Recreation Area?: Raccoon State Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Indiana. The entrance fee is Entry Fee & Lake Permit Req.
What activities are available at Raccoon State Recreation Area?: Raccoon State Recreation Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Raccoon State Recreation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Raccoon State Recreation Area?: The best time to paddle at Raccoon State Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Raccoon State Recreation Area?: Water conditions at Raccoon State Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Raccoon State Recreation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Raccoon State Recreation Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.7312, -87.0768