Explore Starke County, Indiana: Lakeside Leisure & Vintage Rails
- Take A Backroad Travel
- Jul 30
- 3 min read
If you're looking for a relaxing Midwest escape with just the right mix of sunshine, small-town charm, and a dash of nostalgia, Starke County, Indiana should be on your radar. Whether you're floating on the lake, hopping on a historic train, or uncovering quirky roadside stops, this hidden gem offers something for everyone.
Cool Off at Bass Lake Beach & Campground
Start your Starke County adventure at Bass Lake, just south of Knox, Indiana. It’s one of the largest natural lakes in the state—spanning over 1,300 acres—and a favorite summer destination for both locals and travelers.
The Bass Lake Beach & Campground is your go-to spot for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and waterside fun. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon from the nearby marina, or simply stretch out on the sandy beach and relax. If you want to stay longer, the campground offers tent and RV sites just steps from the water.
Nearby Eats:
Bass Lake Pub & Ristorante – A casual lakeside spot serving up burgers, pizza, pasta, and stunning sunset views. Don’t miss their outdoor patio on warm nights.
Take a Ride Through Time at Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
Just 20 minutes west in North Judson, the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum is one of the most unique attractions in the region. This living history museum celebrates the golden age of rail travel with a collection of restored locomotives, passenger cars, cabooses, and even a working train signal garden.
The real highlight? Train rides through the countryside! Climb aboard a vintage diesel train or, if you're lucky, catch a ride on their fully restored 1908 steam locomotive. Seasonal rides like the Easter Train, Pumpkin Train, and Santa Express make it a fantastic year-round destination for families.
📍 Tip: The museum is open on select weekends—check their website for train schedules and events.
Walk the Erie Trail
While you're in North Judson, bring your walking shoes or bike and explore the North Judson Erie Trail. This 11-mile trail follows the old JK Line Railroad and offers peaceful views of farmland and woodlands—perfect for stretching your legs before or after your train ride.
A Hidden Gem: Bailey’s Discount Center
Also in North Judson, Bailey’s Discount Center is a massive and quirky store packed with everything from Amish-made jams and salvaged furniture to seasonal goods, tools, toys, and bulk groceries. It’s a treasure hunt kind of stop, and yes—there’s even a café inside serving up surprisingly good homemade sandwiches and desserts.
Classic Comfort in Knox
While in Knox, fuel up at Christos Family Dining, a beloved local diner serving classic American fare. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find farm-fresh breakfasts, all-day comfort food, and that warm small-town hospitality you only get in places like this.
Starke County Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for lake activities and train rides.
What to Pack: Swimsuits, walking shoes, binoculars (for spotting birds along the trail), and a camera.
Nearby Day Trips: Consider pairing your visit with stops in Pulaski or Marshall Counties for even more outdoor fun and local history.
Starke County may be small, but it’s full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you're here to catch a train, dip your toes in the lake, or just enjoy a slower pace of life, you'll leave with plenty of good memories—and maybe a few vintage souvenirs, too.
Ready to keep exploring? Let’s hit the road—there’s more Indiana magic just around the corner.
Explore this unique slice of the Hoosier State and other hidden gems across the United States with our USA Hidden Gems Road Trips playlist on Spotify:
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