Top 5 Lakes Near Fort Wayne for Weekend Living (e.g., Lake Everett)

Whether you're looking for a quick day trip, a seasonal retreat, or a weekend lake home, the area around Fort Wayne offers beautiful lakes within roughly an hour’s drive — perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and relaxing with family and friends.

1. Lake Everett

📍 About 12 miles from Fort WayneA small natural lake with calm waters and a relaxed vibe — ideal for weekend visits or easy lake living close to the city. Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources maintains a public beach, dock, and boat ramp here, and it’s known for excellent pan fishing.

Best for: Fishing, kayaking, family days, relaxing close to home

2. Lake James

📍 About 45–60 minutes northOne of the largest lakes in northeast Indiana, Lake James is a classic all-sports lake offering boating, watersports, and plenty of waterfront homes. Its clear waters and sizable surface make it excellent for a weekend home or second property.

Best for: Boating, tubing, water skiing, lakeside dining

3. Clear Lake (Steuben County)

📍 ~50–60 minutes from Fort WayneJust outside Fremont, Clear Lake is a scenic choice with deep water and excellent recreation. It’s especially popular for water skiing, wakeboarding, and pontoon cruising, and is often paired with nearby Marsh Lake for added variety.

Best for: Water sports, weekend cottages, summer fun

4. Crooked Lake (Steuben County)

📍 Near Fremont, about 50–60 minutes awayA large Y-shaped lake offering a mix of calm coves and open water, Crooked Lake is ideal for boating and fishing without the congestion of larger lakes. Its scenic shoreline and quieter nature appeal to both weekenders and full-time lake home buyers.

Best for: Quiet boating, fishing, nature views

5. Pretty Lake (LaGrange County)

📍 Under an hour’s driveA smaller, peaceful lake known for its clean water and strong conservation efforts. With slower boating speeds and a more serene environment, Pretty Lake is perfect for people who want a true escape from the city yet still be within easy driving distance of Fort Wayne.

Best for: Fishing, quiet retreats, gentle lakeside living

💡 Weekend Living Tips

• Proximity matters: Lake Everett is best for short, spontaneous outings, while the Steuben County lakes make great weekend homes with deeper water and more recreational options.

• Water activities: Most of these lakes support boating, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding in summer — and peaceful nature walks or birdwatching year-round.

• Real estate appeal: Waterfront properties on these lakes can be excellent vacation homes, rental investments, or even full-time residences depending on your lifestyle goals.