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Lick Fork Lake Trail

Hoosier National Forest, Indiana · 3 min read

Distance
3.2 mi
Elevation Gain
180 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Lick Fork Lake with a designated swimming beach
  • Loop trail around the full lake perimeter
  • Picnic facilities at the recreation area
  • Family-friendly distance and terrain
  • Good fishing for bass and bluegill from the bank

Overview

The Lick Fork Lake Trail loops around one of the Hoosier National Forest's small impoundments in the Perry County unit, providing a gentle 3.2-mile circuit with lake views throughout and swimming access at the recreation area beach. The trail is the most family-friendly option in the southern Hoosier National Forest, combining a walkable loop with the payoff of a swimming lake in summer.

The lake was created by a small earthen dam on Lick Fork Creek and covers approximately 40 acres. The surrounding forest is a mix of young second-growth hardwood recovering from past agricultural use and maturing oak-hickory on the steeper slopes above the lake.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 0.8: Recreation Area and Beach

From the parking lot, the trail heads counterclockwise around the lake, passing the swimming beach and picnic area in the first quarter mile. The beach section is flat and easy, popular as a destination on its own for families who park and walk only to the sand. The trail continues around the north shore through a mixed young-forest section.

Miles 0.8 to 2.0: Back of the Lake

The west and south shores have the most forest character, with the trail climbing slightly away from the lake shore on the steeper west bank. Fishing access points are on the south shore where a flat bench of grass reaches the water. Several large sycamores grow near the water at the south end of the lake: some reaching 3 feet in diameter.

Miles 2.0 to 3.2: East Shore Return

The east shore runs along the dam face and the spillway area before returning to the recreation area parking lot. The dam creates a broad open view across the full lake on the final section.

When to Hike

June through August: Peak season for swimming. The lake beach is busiest on summer weekends. Wildflowers along the trail edge are at their best in June.

April through May: Spring migration brings wood warblers through the shoreline forest. The lake trails are quiet and the forest is fresh.

October: Fall color and quiet. The lake is peaceful in autumn without the summer recreation crowds.

What to Bring

Swim gear if swimming is the plan. Water available at the recreation area in season. Sunscreen for the open beach section. The loop is short enough that a full day pack is unnecessary: a small daypack with water, snacks, and sunscreen covers it.

Trailhead Access

Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area is on forest roads in Perry County. The road is unpaved for the approach and may require a high-clearance vehicle in wet seasons. Vault toilets and water at the recreation area (seasonal). Free day-use parking. No permit required for day hiking (as of 2026). Dogs welcome on leash.

Nearby

The German Ridge Trail is in the same general Perry County area and provides a longer forest loop. The Mogan Ridge Loop offers a more challenging wilderness circuit for hikers who want more terrain. Check current conditions for road accessibility and swimming beach status before visiting. Review Leave No Trace principles.

Trailhead Parking

Paved lot at Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area. Free for day hikers.

← Back to Hoosier National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Lick Fork Lake?
Yes. Lick Fork Lake has a designated swimming area with a sand beach near the recreation area parking lot. No lifeguard on duty. The water is warm enough for comfortable swimming from late June through August.
Is fishing allowed at Lick Fork Lake?
Yes. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass and bluegill. A valid Indiana fishing license is required (as of 2026). Bank fishing is accessible from several points on the trail loop.
Is this a good trail for young children?
Yes. It is popular with families in the Hoosier. The lake provides a clear destination, the distance is manageable for older children, and the flat sections near the recreation area are easy walking. Some hillier sections on the back of the loop may require assistance for very young hikers.