Hidden Lake Park
A serene forest park offering paddleboating, disc golf, and a playground with a long zip line. Perfect for family fun and peaceful nature escapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hidden Lake Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene forest park offering paddleboating, disc golf, and a playground with a long zip line. Perfect for family fun and peaceful nature escapes.
"It's in the middle of Merrillville and you feel like you’re in the country! I highly recommend this park."
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay more than residents. Confirm current fees before arrival.
🎣 Great Fishing Spot
The rocky bank near the old bridge is excellent for bass fishing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paddleboating on the Lake
Hidden Lake
Enjoy a serene paddleboat ride on the picturesque lake, a perfect way to soak in the natural beauty.
Disc Golf Course
Designated course area
Challenge your friends to a round of disc golf amidst the park's scenic landscape.
Playground Fun
Playground area
Kids will love the playground, featuring a notably long zip line for endless fun.
Winter Sledding
Slopes
Experience the thrill of sledding down the park's gentle slopes during the winter months.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entry Fees & Hours
Activities & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay more than residents. Confirm current fees before arrival. +1
🎣 Great Fishing Spot
The rocky bank near the old bridge is excellent for bass fishing.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walk
Embrace the walk, even if it's a bit of a trek to your car; it's part of the experience.
🌳 Peaceful Country Feel
Enjoy the surprising tranquility, feeling like you're in the country despite being in Merrillville.
Good fishing spots?
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Check Entry Fees
Non-residents pay more than residents. Confirm current fees before arrival. +1
🎣 Great Fishing Spot
The rocky bank near the old bridge is excellent for bass fishing.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walk
Embrace the walk, even if it's a bit of a trek to your car; it's part of the experience.
🌳 Peaceful Country Feel
Enjoy the surprising tranquility, feeling like you're in the country despite being in Merrillville.
🛝 Longest Zip Line
Kids will be thrilled by the exceptionally long zip line at the playground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hidden Lake Park to be a nice, clean, and peaceful place with good activities like paddleboating and disc golf. The playground, especially the zip line, is a hit with kids. However, some guests are unhappy with the non-resident entrance fees and the condition of the port-a-potties.
"It was ok. Actually, it's pretty nice. I think you can fish there. We had just a little problem with some people that were in our reserved spot and when they were told to move, they didn't go that far because they wanted to disturb us with their loud music all night. But besides them, it was all right if you wanna walk far to your car. Actually, that wasn't even that bad because I'm old and fat & I just don't want to walk. Go try it out, you'll probably like it. Oh, there is a small fee to get in... The day we went, the car cost us $3. to get in."
Joanne Schweifler
"This is actually the first time I ever been to this park. I don’t even know it was back there. I like that the tenant was very nice and knowledgeable about the park. I didn’t know that you had to pay a fee if you was not a resident in that area, but they are very nice and I like that the park was very secure and very clean. I wouldn’t mind having a picnic there I went to an event there and their pavilion. It was small, but it served the purpose of what I went there for I would love to bring my family there for picnic if time permits one dayand I felt safe and secure at this park. It is a good place to go for families and very beautiful."
Sofea La Rossie Williams
"The park itself was nice and relatively clean. I dont appreciate the fact that non residents are charged 10$ (residents are charged 5$) for entrance but they have port-a-potties as their only available restrooms. No alcohol allowed but there was an empty liquor bottle in one of the urinals of the units. The port-a-potties were also not clean at all."
Crimson Page
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hidden Lake Park is located in Merrillville, Indiana. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access the park. +1 Parking can be a bit of a walk from some areas, so factor that into your plans.
Information on direct public transport routes to Hidden Lake Park is scarce. It's generally recommended to drive to the park. +1
You can find Hidden Lake Park in Merrillville, Indiana. Using a GPS or mapping app with 'Hidden Lake Park, Merrillville, IN' should provide accurate driving directions. +1
Yes, parking is available. However, some visitors note that the walk from the parking area to certain spots can be a bit long.
While specific details on multiple entrances are not widely publicized, it's best to use the main entrance indicated by park signage or your GPS.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee. Fees differ for residents and non-residents, with non-residents typically paying a higher amount. +1
The cost varies. One review mentioned $3 per car for residents, while another noted $10 for non-residents and $5 for residents. It's advisable to confirm the current pricing. +1
Yes, residents generally pay a lower entrance fee compared to non-residents. +1
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official park website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, picnic pavilions are available and can be reserved for events. One reviewer mentioned using a pavilion for an event.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy paddleboating, playing softball or disc golf, picnicking, and sledding in the winter. The park also features a playground with a long zip line.
Yes, Hidden Lake Park is known to be a good spot for fishing, particularly for bass. The rocky bank near the old bridge is a recommended area.
Some visitors have noted the availability of port-a-potties, which may not always be clean or well-maintained.
Absolutely! Families will appreciate the playground with its exciting zip line and the overall peaceful environment. +1
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are also pavilions available for rent, suitable for gatherings and events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Hidden Lake Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or plan to dine outside the park.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics.
Information on specific BBQ facilities is not widely available, but picnicking is a common activity, suggesting that some areas might be suitable for grilling.
No, alcohol is not permitted within Hidden Lake Park.
Merrillville offers various dining options. You can find fast food, casual restaurants, and cafes just a short drive from the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially during golden hour. Drone footage has also captured stunning aerial perspectives of the park.
Drone usage has been captured in videos of the park, suggesting it's possible, but always check local regulations and park rules regarding drone operation.
Late afternoons offer beautiful lighting, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' which can enhance the park's natural beauty for photography.
The lake and its surrounding natural landscape are the primary photographic subjects. The playground with its unique zip line also offers fun photo opportunities.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and family portraits are popular. Drone videography has also showcased the park's expanse.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waters: Paddleboating and Fishing
For those who enjoy angling, the lake is also a known fishing spot. Redditors have shared tips about productive areas, particularly the rocky bank near where an old bridge used to be, which is said to be excellent for catching bass.
The presence of water activities adds a significant dimension to Hidden Lake Park, offering both leisurely enjoyment and the chance for a bit of sport. Whether you're paddling or fishing, the lake provides a focal point for a memorable visit.
Family Fun and Playtime
Beyond the playground, the park's open spaces and natural setting make it ideal for picnics. Families can reserve pavilions for gatherings, providing a comfortable base for a day of outdoor fun.
The park also hosts events, such as field trips where children can enjoy safety lessons and park activities, highlighting its role as a community space for learning and play.
Navigating Park Entry and Fees
The park's operating hours can also vary, so it's recommended to check these in advance.
Despite these logistical points, the park's amenities and natural beauty are generally well-received, making the entry process a worthwhile step towards enjoying the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit