July may be National Lake Appreciation Month, but you can enjoy Noble County's 117 lakes and river branches via attractions and 30 public access sites all year round! Let us help you get started.
9 Lake Paddle Challenge at the Chain
Participate in the 9 Lake Paddle Challenge at Chain O'Lakes State Park in Albion. Rent a variety of watercrafts at the park's Boat Rental, open seasonally during spring, summer, and fall.
Favored Beaches
Let the waves hit your feet and the sand be your seat! Families will love exploring Noble County's swimming spots. While there are many places to jump in, build a sand castle, or swim all day, these are among the most popular. Please note most beaches do not have lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk and look for any additional posted rules or regulations.
Bixler Lake Park Public Beach - West, Kendallville. Open until 7:30 PM.
Bixler Lake Campground Public Beach - East, Kendallville. Open until 7:30 PM.
Sand Lake Beach at Chain O Lakes State Park, Albion. For more information, download a brochure.
For the love of fishing
A variety of water experiences await the veteran and novice fishermen and women. If you want to reel in a certain catch, check out our blog on Fishing in Noble County.
Noble County is home to many varieties of sunfish, bass, pike and more.
Watercraft Rentals
Rentals including boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats are available at Chain O’ Lakes State Park for use on 13 lakes, nine of which are connected by navigable channels. Boat Rental at the Chain is open from 8 AM to 8 PM seasonally. Boat Rental is located on Sand Lake right in the middle of the chain. Park on the top of the hill and take the short hike down to the rental building. Photo IDs are required to rent.
Life jackets are available with all boat rentals, but you may also bring your own if preferable. Canoes, single kayaks, double kayaks, row boats, and paddle boats are all available, first-come, first served, with ample supplies. Rental rates start at $8/hour, with great discounts on all-day rentals. Due to high demand, daily rentals are available only on weekdays.
R&S Boats in Rome City also offers boat rentals, water toys, fishing licenses, sunscreen, propane, new and used pontoons, fishing boats, trailers, motors, docks/piers, lifts and more!
If you're ready to own some water toys, West Lakes Boat Mart & Services carries a wide range of pontoons, deck boats, fishing boats and tri-toons. Offering boats to suit every need and want, as well as in every price range. Offering pontoon rentals for used pontoons.
Motored watersports
For something a little more energizing, like tube rides, wakeboarding, or waterskiing, check out some of Noble County's watersports-allowed lakes:
Skinner Lake: 2 miles east of Albion — 125 acres, 32 feet deep. Waterskiing and other water sports allowed.
Insider Tip: Check out Nick's Bait & Tackle in Albion for your local fishing needs!
Sylvan Lake: Rome City — 669 acres, 36 feet deep. Bring your own jet skis and boats, or contact R&S Boats in town for rental options.
West Lakes: 3 miles west of Rome City — 454 acres. Waterskiing is allowed on Waldron Lake.