J C Murphey Lake, Reservoir in Newton County, Indiana, United States

J.C. Murphey Lake is a reservoir in Newton County, Indiana, part of the Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area. Its open water covers about 5.1 square kilometers, stretching roughly 3.8 km north to south and 4.4 km east to west. The shoreline is bordered by a grassy bank with pale rocks, and a low, green-covered island lies off the far shore.

J.C. Murphey Lake was built in 1951 as a reservoir within what became the Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area in Newton County, Indiana. Its original purpose was to give migratory birds a place to rest. Between 2022 and 2024 the lake was drawn down and renovated: sediment was removed, fish habitat structures were installed, and native vegetation was planted.

The lake is named after J.C. Murphey and sits within the Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area, where visitors come to watch birds and experience nature. The place is used regularly by local hunters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts who return to observe seasonal changes and wildlife movements throughout the year.

Access is through designated areas of the Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area, with a boat ramp, fishing piers and hiking trails; only electric motors and small boats are permitted. Wear a life jacket, since swimming is not allowed, and expect access to be restricted before waterfowl hunting seasons.

J.C. Murphey Lake covers about 5.1 square kilometres, and its basin runs roughly 3.8 km north to south and 4.4 km east to west. Lawler Ditch, a canal, is the named waterway linked to the lake. The surface lies at about 200 metres above sea level, and higher ground rises to 250 metres within 14 km to the east.