Located in Indiana, Cagles Mill Lake is also known as Cataract Lake. Cagles Mill Lake was named after an old grist mill in the area. Constructed as part of the Flood Control Act of 1938, its intent was primarily for flood control on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Today, the lake attracts visitors for recreational activities such as fishing and camping.
Many visitors come to the 1400-acre lake each year. The lake and the surrounding area offer many recreational activities and a break from the daily grind back at home. Cagles Mill Lake has an abundance of fish with 12 species, attracting anglers. Hunting is permitted in designated areas as well as in-season waterfowl hunting on the lake itself. Boat launches around the lake make it quick and easy to drop boats and jet skis into the water.
For those wanting to stay a night or more to make the most of their visit, there are two campgrounds at the adjacent Lieber State Recreation Area. Across the two campgrounds, there is a mix of electric and non-electric campsites. Both campgrounds are pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends. They’ll love exploring the lake, trails, and campgrounds with you during your stay.
Cagles Mill Lake is a popular south-central Indiana destination near the township of Poland. Easily accessible off IN-42 and IN-243, the lake and nearby Lieber and Cataract Falls State Recreations Areas aren’t hard to find.
For those looking to camp overnight, two campgrounds are located at Lieber State Recreation Area which is adjacent to Cagles Mill Lake. Additionally, Terra Haute KOA is a 40-minute drive from the lake.
There are several parking lots located within the state recreation areas. If camping at Lieber State Recreation Area, visitors may find it easier to walk, bike, or hike from their campsite to access the lake, especially those with large RVs.
Poplar Grove Campground is located at Lieber State Recreation Area which is adjacent to Cagles Mill Lake. This campground has electric hookups. Water fountains are located throughout the campground and a dump station is near the entrance as well. Poplar Grove is pet-friendly and your furry companions will enjoy exploring Cagles Mill Lake with you during your visit. Amenities of Poplar Grove include a playground, restrooms with showers, and pit toilets.
Within Lieber State Recreation Area, you’ll find Sunny Acres Campground. This campground has non-electric campsites only. Water spigots can be found throughout the campground. This pet-friendly campground is partially shaded by surrounding trees and vegetation. Amenities include pit toilets and restrooms with showers.
The Terra Haute KOA is just a 40-minute drive from Cagles Mill Lake. Open year-round, the KOA offers several campsites with full hookups, including some with a patio. Reservations can be made online. There are several amenities offered at the KOA. These amenities include a playground, a dog park, WiFi, and cable.
Fishing is a popular activity at Cagles Mill Lake, both from the shoreline and out on the water. It isn’t hard to find a quiet spot away from crowds. There are several spots that anglers can hike to for seclusion. For anglers wanting to head out onto the lake, there are two public boat launches. There are many different types of fish, including bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, and bluegill. Anglers are bound to be lucky while out fishing at Cagles Mill Lake.
Cagles Mill Lake attracts boaters and those looking to partake in other water sports. Bring your boat, jet skis, or other watercraft to spend the warm spring and summer days out on the water. Whether you want to paddle your kayak or canoe around the shoreline or speed around on your jet ski you’re sure to have a great time out on the lake.
There are several picnic sites to enjoy on and near Cagles Mill Lake which include many amenities. These picnic areas are at Lieber and Cataract Falls Recreation Areas. Grills and many tables make it perfect to enjoy celebrations both large and small. A playground and field are next to the picnic area providing plenty of space for games. The picnic shelters are reservable online.
Hunting and trapping are permitted on designated areas of land around Lieber State Recreation Area, including Owen-Putnam State Forest. Deer, squirrel, and wild turkey are just a few of the popular types of game attracting hunters. In-season waterfowl hunting also draws out those looking to hunt. If planning to hunt during your visit, review hunting regulations and ensure you acquire the proper permits.
During your visit to Cagles Mill Lake, keep an eye out for the many different types of wildlife. The lake and surrounding area have an abundance of wildlife both on land and on the water. Many different types of fish swim beneath the lake’s surface. Waterfowl can be seen on and near the lake. On land, deer and wild turkey are commonly spotted. In the evening hours, you may spot a fox slinking through the vegetation.
There are a few nature trails within the nearby state recreation areas. While exploring the trails, you’ll be able to observe and enjoy a variety of the park’s plant and wildlife. Be sure to check out the Covered Bridge Nature Trail during your visit. This ¾-mile stone trail is a loop which takes visitors to a historic covered bridge. It is ADA accessible and has benches where you can rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
