Lake fishing

Geist Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Geist Reservoir

Show on map
Geist Reservoir
Show on map

Why Rent On Geist Reservoir

Geist Reservoir is a reservoir in the northeastern part of metropolitan Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. It was constructed in 1943 by damming Fall Creek to provide water for Indianapolis. Upon completion, Geist Reservoir was the second-largest man-made lake in Indiana, providing approximately 7,000,000,000 US gallons of water. The reservoir is located primarily in the northeast corner of Indianapolis and the southeast corner of Fishers, but small parts reach into the nearby towns of Lawrence, Fortville, and McCordsville.

Geist Reservoir was named after Clarence Geist, a former owner of the Indianapolis Water Company who foresaw a deficit in Indianapolis’s water supply and envisioned Geist Reservoir to preemptively address the problem. Planning for the reservoir began as early as 1913, when hydraulic engineers estimated that White River and Fall Creek would not provide enough water for the increasing needs of Indianapolis. Geist gradually bought some 5,000 acres in Fall Creek Valley in the 1920s and 1930s, including the small town of Germantown, which today lies at the bottom of the reservoir. Although controversial, the reservoir was completed in 1943, five years after Clarence Geist’s death. In the 1960s further controversy arose over plans for commercial and residential development in the area around the lake. A proposal in the 1970s to triple the size of the reservoir was defeated, and a housing boom began in the lake area.

In recent years the Geist area has experienced rapid growth. The area is noted for its topography and the reservoir. In recent years the reservoir has experienced problems with algal blooms and invasive aquatic species.

Geist Reservoir Dam is located at the lake’s southern end. Fed by Fall Creek on the north, the lake overflow is directed into the creek again at the south. The earthen dam is 44 feet high, with a length of 1,400 feet at its crest. The reservoir capacity is 60,000 acre-feet, although normal storage is 21,180 acre-feet.

The reservoir is mostly rather shallow (10 feet or less). The area has undergone rapid development and some high-valued homes now line the reservoir’s waterfront.

Geist Reservoir covers 1,900 acres and spans three counties in Indiana (Marion, Hamilton, and Hancock), four voting precincts, three school districts (Lawrence, Hamilton Southeastern, and Mt. Vernon), and features five different ZIP codes (46037, 46256, 46236, 46040, 46055).

Best time to go
As summer unfurls its warm embrace, visit Geist Reservoir in June for idyllic days bathed in sunlight. Revel in serene fishing mornings and exhilarating water sports, all with fewer tourists. Savor the stillness of twilight as sunsets paint the sky in vibrant hues.
Water Quality
Geist Reservoir's water exhibits a jade hue with a silty clarity, often appearing murky due to algae blooms and sedimentation. Recent zebra mussel infestations have led to clearer water, but this has not significantly improved its overall clarity.
Surface area (mi)
4.72
Max depth (ft)
48
Elevation (ft)
780.84
Shoreline length (mi)
35

Popular activities

  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
pencil

Information not accurate?

Help us improve by making a suggestion.

Marinas on Geist Reservoir

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Geist Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, you can swim in Geist Reservoir, but only in the designated swimming areas at Geist Waterfront Park during the swim season, which is from May 25 through September 2. Swimming is monitored by lifeguards and is prohibited during the off season.

  • Geist Reservoir is a popular destination because of its 1,900-acre lake and various recreational activities. It offers beach and water access, a non-motorized boat launch,_WRiting trails, and a pirate-themed playground at Geist Waterfront Park. The area also features lakeside restaurants and luxurious lakefront properties.

  • For Geist Reservoir in Indiana, the daily bag limit for black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, or spotted) is 5 fish, with a minimum size limit of 14 inches. No fish between 12 and 15 inches may be kept, and no more than two fish over 15 inches may be kept. These regulations are part of the general Indiana fishing rules.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Geist Reservoir with a non-motorized boat launch. Geist Waterfront Park, located at 10811 Olio Road, offers a beach and a non-motorized boat launch for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The park is open year-round, with the beach and swimming area monitored by lifeguards during the summer season.

  • Geist Reservoir is near the towns of Indianapolis, Fishers, and parts of Lawrence and Fall Creek Townships. It spans across Marion, Hamilton, and Hancock counties, making it accessible from several nearby communities. The reservoir is also close to other suburban areas like Vernon Township.