About Barbee Chain of Lakes

Aptly called so, the Barbee Chain of Lakes is a cluster of seven interconnected, natural lakes: Big Barbee Lake, Little Barbee Lake, Kuhn Lake, Irish Lake, Sawmill Lake, Sechrist Lake, and Banning Lake. These refreshing lakes sum up to a surface area of 855 acres and offer attractive options for those seeking a serene lifestyle with easy access to a variety of recreational activities.

Photo via BarbeeLakes.org

Big Barbee Lake is perfect for speed-limit-free boating and watersports, such as speed boating and sailing. The smaller lakes offer quieter living environments and have a 10 mph speed limit for water vehicles, however, residents still have easy access to watersports and fishing opportunities. On all lakes, anglers can haul in a bounty of bluegill, catfish, crappies, largemouth bass, muskies and yellow perch. A public boat ramp can be found north of Kuhn Lake.

Travel back in time at the Barbee Hotel, originally known as the Hotel Ormond when it was built in 1897 between Big and Little Barbee Lakes. After a fire in 1922, the hotel was rebuilt and shortly after hosted many famous patrons including actress Carol Lombard and no less than The King of Hollywood, Clark Gable. Notorious gangsters Al Capone, Baby Face Nelson, and John Dillinger made the hotel their own hideout. Nowadays, the Barbee Hotel and Restaurant serves as a fine dining experience with signature cocktails, craft beers, hand-cut steaks and prime rib.

Off-road motorcycle racing fans will get to enjoy thrilling displays of skill and daring maneuvers at the Trojan Raceway. This motocross facility lies close to Kuhn Lake and features scheduled motocross events.

Locals at the Barbee Lakes enjoy a close-knit community. The neighborhood engages in the upkeep of the lakes’ water quality, lakeside clean-ups and a lighted boat parade. Many of the homes feature sandy beaches and private access for boats, and some properties have spacious backyards with green space.

Just eight miles south of the Barbee Chain of Lakes is the town of Pierceton, which is famous for its antique shops and malls. Shoppers will delight in browsing through the vintage jewelry, fine arts, and antiques sold throughout the town.

A 20-minute drive southwest of Barbee Lakes will lead to Warsaw, the Orthopedic Capital of the World. The city is also filled with attractions of nature and cultural heritage. Adjacent to Warsaw, nature lovers can bike or hike along the Heritage Trail or the Winona Lake Trails. Up north, there are excellent restaurants in Syracuse, which is only 30 minutes away, including Lux Café and The Pier & Back Porch.

The Barbee Chain of Lakes is the perfect place for a calm home near an assortment of recreational areas. With seven different lakes to choose from, you’re sure to find a lakefront home that suits your lifestyle – take a look at local listings right here.