Indiana Lake
Indiana Lake, Michigan Homes for Sale
Indiana Lake, Michigan Homes for Sale
Indiana Lake Overview
Indiana Lake straddles the Michigan–Indiana state line, just south of Baldwin Lake near Union, Michigan. Known for its clear water, peaceful setting, and community-oriented atmosphere, Indiana Lake offers the best of small-lake living in Southwest Michigan.
With convenient access to major highways, residents can easily reach nearby cities and attractions, while Chicago is just over two hours away for effortless weekend getaways.
About 60 percent of the lake’s 110 homes are year-round residences, and nearly one-fourth of the shoreline remains undeveloped woodland, preserving the quiet natural feel that residents cherish.
Quick Facts about Indiana Lake
- Size: ~122 acres
- Depth: ~Up to 100 feet
- Type: Spring-fed, natural, all-sports lake
- Location: Michigan–Indiana state line (Union, MI / Elkhart County, IN)
- Nearby Cities: ~Elkhart ~Shipshewana ~South Bend ~Chicago
- Access: Near Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) and U.S.12
- Public Access: None (private lake)
Living on Indiana Lake
Life on Indiana Lake combines lakeside relaxation with small-town convenience. The community includes a blend of historic cottages on the Indiana side and larger, newer lake homes on the Michigan side, creating a neighborhood that feels both established and evolving.
Because the lake has no public access, the water stays calm and uncrowded even on holiday weekends. Many homeowners enjoy morning coffee from their docks, quiet evening pontoon cruises, and gatherings with neighbors at annual community events.
About 5 minutes away, the Zimmyville area provides convenient lakeside essentials and local flavor. Here you’ll find Zimmy’s Tavern, a longtime neighborhood hangout for burgers, music, and cold drinks; George’s Bar & Grill, known for classic breakfasts and comfort-food lunches; and Mills Grocery, a small but reliable stop for meats, produce, and everyday necessities. These close-by spots add practical convenience and a friendly, small-town charm to lake living.
Indiana Lake Real Estate Market
Indiana Lake’s real estate market reflects its dual-state geography and mix of homes, from classic cottages to newly built estates. It’s one of the most balanced lakefront markets in Cass County, offering both accessibility and exclusivity.
- Entry-Level & Indiana-Side Cottages: Smaller or older lake homes typically sell for $400,000–$600,000, depending on condition and updates.
- Mid-Range Michigan-Side Homes: Well-kept mid-sized homes with solid frontage generally fall between $600,000 and $1.1 million.
- High-End Properties: Larger homes with 100+ feet of frontage, modern interiors, and lake-view decks often sell for $1.3 million–$1.6 million.
- Luxury Estates: Rare, newly built or extensively renovated homes on double lots may reach $1.8 million–$2 million, though listings above that are exceptional.
- Vacant Land: Buildable parcels are rare and in high demand.
Here, the demand is steady and turnover is low. Many properties stay in families for generations, and well-maintained lakefront homes tend to sell quickly when they hit the market.
Outdoor Activities on Indiana Lake
Diamond Lake’s size and depth make it a year-round playground for outdoor recreation.
Boating & Watersports
Perfect for skiing, tubing, and pontoon cruising, without the congestion of larger public lakes.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Quiet mornings and wooded coves are ideal for paddlers and nature watchers.
Fishing
Excellent fishing for bass, crappie, perch, bluegill, rock bass, and sunfish. The Indiana Lake Association hosts two fishing tournaments each year.
Wildlife Viewing
The undeveloped portions of the shoreline attract ducks, swans, turtles, and bald eagles.
Swimming
The lake’s sandy-bottomed shallows and spring-fed clarity make it great for swimming.
Winter Recreation
Residents enjoy ice fishing, skating, and snowshoeing once the lake freezes.
Area Attractions Near Indiana Lake
Local Highlights
- Zimmyville (Union, MI):
- Zimmy’s Tavern: Local favorite for casual dining and live music.
- George’s Bar & Grill: Classic breakfast and lunch stop.
- Mills Grocery: Convenient market with local meats and essentials.
Wineries & Breweries
- Fruit Hills Winery & Orchard (Bristol, IN): Local wines and orchard views.
- Round Barn Winery (Baroda, MI): Wine, beer, and spirits in a scenic setting.
- Gateway Cellar Winery (Elkhart, IN): Quaint downtown tasting room.
Outdoor Recreation
- Dr. T.K. Lawless Park: About 20 minutes away with hiking, biking, and cross-country ski trails.
- Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area: 20 minutes north for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
- Cass County Parks: Dozens of preserves for kayaking, birding, and hiking.
Nearby Towns
- Elkhart, IN (11.4 miles): Shopping, restaurants, and cultural venues such as the Lerner Theatre and Midwest Museum of American Art.
- Shipshewana, IN (24.5 miles): Famous for its Amish Country markets and Shipshewana Flea Market.
- South Bend, IN (28.4 miles): Home to Notre Dame, museums, dining, and sporting events.
- Chicago, IL (118 miles): A popular weekend destination for lake homeowners.
Community & Events
The Indiana Lake Association plays a central role in preserving water quality and organizing community traditions. Each year, residents enjoy:
- Two Fishing Tournaments (spring and summer)
- Movie Nights on the Lake
- Community Garage Sale Weekend
- Memorial Day Parade
- July 4th Decorated Boat Flotilla
- Labor Day “Flares Night” lighting the shoreline at dusk
These events strengthen community ties and make Indiana Lake one of the friendliest and most active small-lake neighborhoods in Cass County.
Neighboring Lakes
Indiana Lake sits amid a network of other scenic all-sports lakes, ideal for exploring by boat or car:
- Baldwin Lake: 266 acres with a marina, restaurants, and lively summer activity.
- Long Lake (Union): Connected to Coverdale Lake by channel; excellent for boating and kayaking.
- Coverdale Lake: Smaller, quieter lake perfect for fishing and paddle sports.
Common Questions of Indiana Lake Homebuyers
How big is Indiana Lake?
It covers about 122 acres with a maximum depth of 65 feet.
Is it an all-sports lake?
Yes. Boating, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing are all allowed.
Is there public access?
No. Indiana Lake is private, ensuring less boat traffic and quieter conditions.
What are typical home prices?
Most homes sell between $400,000 and $1.5 million, with rare luxury builds reaching around $2 million.
What’s the community like?
Friendly, close-knit, and active, with numerous annual events hosted by the Indiana Lake Association.
How close is it to major cities?
Elkhart is 10 miles, South Bend is 25 minutes, and Chicago is about two hours away.
Common Questions of Indiana Lake Homesellers
Why do buyers choose Indiana Lake?
Its private access, clean water, and peaceful location make it one of Southwest Michigan’s most desirable smaller lakes.
What affects home value?
Lot size, frontage, updates, and which side of the lake (Michigan vs. Indiana) all influence price.
How competitive is the market?
Inventory is tight, and well-maintained homes tend to sell quickly.
When’s the best time to list?
What upgrades add the most value?
Modern docks, updated kitchens, outdoor entertaining spaces, and landscaping improvements.
Work with The Lake Life
Whether you’re searching for a cozy cottage or a luxury lakefront home, The Lake Life specializes in Michigan–Indiana border lakes like Indiana, Baldwin, and Long. Our team understands the nuances of two-state property ownership, shoreline regulations, and local buyer demand.
Contact The Lake Life today to explore current Indiana Lake listings or request a complimentary home value assessment.
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