Deam Lake is a 104-acre man-made lake located in southern Indiana's Clark State Forest. Created in 1965 and named after Indiana's first state forester, Charles Deam, the lake requires a $5 DNR lake permit for all paddlers, available at the front gate when staffed. An additional $7 per vehicle entrance fee applies during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day).

Only electric motors are allowed on the lake, making it ideal for quiet paddling. The lake features multiple launch points, including a boat ramp and access from the campground on the west side. The east side of the lake borders Hoosier National Forest but has steep banks that make access difficult.

The lake offers a quiet backwater section with a beaver dam, providing interesting wildlife viewing opportunities. While the main portion of the lake is open, numerous coves offer exploration opportunities. Paddlers should note that kayaking is specifically prohibited near the beach area and rental boat launch zone.

Facilities include campgrounds with modern restrooms and showers (seasonal), picnic areas, and parking at the boat launches. Kayak rentals are available Thursday through Sunday, 10am to 6pm during the summer season. The lake tends to be busier and noisier on weekends, particularly in the campground areas.

For paddlers interested in wildlife observation, the area is a designated Watchable Wildlife site. Visitors may spot deer along the shoreline, various woodland songbirds, and occasionally bald eagles and osprey perched in shoreline trees during winter months.

Required permits and seasonal staffing can make off-season access challenging, as there are limited locations to obtain permits when the entrance gate is unstaffed during spring, fall, and winter months. The lake provides calm conditions suitable for beginner paddlers, though wind can occasionally create challenging conditions.