You know that feeling when you and your best friend finally pull off a long-overdue getaway? That was us, headed to Patoka Lake State Park! We each made the trip—she drove up from Evansville, and I from Jeffersonville—meeting right in the middle. It felt like a mini-reunion as soon as we arrived at our winery suite, the perfect blend of cozy and rustic with views that practically demanded you relax.
If you love a laidback adventure, copy our itinerary for some fall frolicking.
FRIDAY NIGHT
Once you’ve got all of your responsibilities back home settled, head up to Patoka Lake State Park. The drive is absolutely beautiful and calming. We checked into the spacious wine suites just above Patoka Lake Winery. We grabbed a bottle of wine downstairs (priorities, right?) and made our way up to the balcony. There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon, glass in hand, catching up without a care in the world. The Catawba was our favorite.
SATURDAY MORNING
After a quiet night in, we woke up to treats from Café Phina, a little indulgence in the comfort of our suite. And, since no bestie trip is complete without some exploration, we set off for a morning walk at Patoka Lake State Park. There are over 6 trails ranging from easy to difficult, so we opted for a light morning walk. Surrounded by trees and the fresh Indiana air, it felt like the ultimate recharge. Just us, nature, and a whole lot of yapping.
The Highlight: A Wine Cruise!
Later, we dressed up (because why not?) and headed to our main event: the Patoka Lake wine cruise! The hosts were incredible—knowledgeable, warm, and full of stories about the local wines. We tasted four unique wines, each with a delicious pairing. We went soaked in the history of the wine while we sipped 4 different varieties. And once the tasting was done, we each got two drink tickets for full pours, so we could roam the boat, enjoying the views with a glass of our favorite selection.
Dinner and a Cozy Night In
Once the cruise wrapped up, we needed carbs (a theme on any trip of ours), so we stopped by Benny’s, right next to the winery. Nothing like good food to end a day full of laughs and wine! We capped the night with one last glass by the fire, letting all the memories of the day settle in. It was the perfect bestie getaway—just nature, good wine, and even better company.
If you’re looking to combine Indiana’s natural beauty with a bit of indulgence, a Patoka Lake trip is a must. Trust me, there’s no better place to catch up with your best friend and make a few new memories over some regionally made wine.
Make sure you Invest in an Indiana State Park Annual Pass!
If you’re like us and always looking for an excuse to escape into nature, consider grabbing an Indiana State Park Annual Pass! For just $50, this little gem opens up all 24 Indiana state parks, including Patoka Lake, and covers over 700 miles of trails—perfect for those "hot girl walks," peaceful nature strolls, or even ambitious hikes to fuel your soul year-round.
Imagine turning a single bestie trip into a whole year of adventures. Whether it's exploring Patoka’s scenic trails, soaking up the lake views, or venturing into any of Indiana’s other gorgeous parks, the annual pass keeps you ready for whatever outdoor memories you want to create next. So, throw on your walking shoes, grab your best friend (or maybe even your pup), and dive into Indiana’s best-kept secrets—no excuses needed!
With 23 more parks to explore, there’s always a new spot waiting to welcome you. Who knows? Patoka Lake might be just the beginning of your new favorite tradition.
