Shorewood Forest, IN

County: Porter

History

Shorewood Forest, Indiana

Shorewood Forest is a gated community located in Valparaiso, Indiana. The development of Shorewood Forest began in the mid-1960s and has since become a prominent residential area in northwest Indiana.

The land on which Shorewood Forest now stands was originally owned by a gentleman named Chester Cassell, who in 1960 purchased a 540-acre parcel of land with the intention of creating a private recreational and residential community. Cassell hired the architectural and engineering firm of Martinie & Scott to plan and develop the subdivision.

Construction of Shorewood Forest started in 1964, and the community quickly gained popularity due to its unique amenities and beautiful natural surroundings. The developers focused on preserving the natural landscape of the area, preserving many trees and incorporating several lakes into the design.

Shorewood Forest boasts a distinctive feature known as the "Lake of the Woods." This picturesque lake covers 150 acres and offers various recreational activities, such as swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The community also includes a beach, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a clubhouse for residents to enjoy.

Over the years, Shorewood Forest has expanded both in terms of residential units and development. New streets and sections have been added, allowing for additional homes and an increase in the number of residents. Today, the community consists of over 600 homes and is home to a diverse population.

The governance structure of Shorewood Forest includes a voluntary property owners association (POA) that manages community affairs and preserves the quality of life for residents. The association organizes social events, lake activities, and maintains the common areas of the neighborhood.

Shorewood Forest's proximity to nearby cities like Valparaiso and Chicago, as well as its carefully planned development and beautiful natural surroundings, have made it an attractive residential destination for individuals and families looking for a peaceful and close-knit community.

Overall, the history of Shorewood Forest showcases a well-planned and successful residential development that has managed to maintain its charm and appeal over the years. Today, the community continues to thrive and offers a high quality of life for its residents.

Attractions

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

A nearby national park with over 15,000 acres of sand dunes, beaches, forests, and wetlands. It offers hiking trails, birdwatching, camping, swimming, and more.

Lake Michigan

Being close to the shores of Lake Michigan, residents of Shorewood Forest can enjoy various recreational activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Deep River Waterpark

Located in nearby Crown Point, it is a popular waterpark with various water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and other attractions.

Indiana Crown Point Historic District

A quaint downtown area with historic buildings, boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Crown Point Sportsplex

A modern sports facility with multiple baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, and more. It hosts various sports events and tournaments.

Albanese Candy Factory

Located in Merrillville, this famous candy factory offers free tours where visitors can see how their famous gummy bears and other candies are made.

Fair Oaks Farms

While it is a bit further away, this agriculture-themed attraction in Fair Oaks is worth a visit. It offers tours, interactive exhibits, a petting zoo, and shows related to dairy farming.

These are just a few examples of attractions near Shorewood Forest. The area offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and nearby town amenities, providing plenty of options for entertainment and exploration.

Climate

Shorewood Forest, Indiana experiences a humid continental climate. This climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and cold winters.

During the summer months, which typically span from June to August, Shorewood Forest experiences hot and often humid weather. Average high temperatures can range from the mid-80s to low 90s °F (28-33 °C), occasionally reaching above 90 °F (32 °C). The evenings provide some relief with average lows in the 60s °F (around 20 °C). Thunderstorms are common during this time, and precipitation levels tend to be higher in summer.

Winters in Shorewood Forest, spanning from December to February, are generally cold and often snowy. Average high temperatures range from the upper 20s to mid-30s °F (-2 to 1 °C), while average lows can dip into the teens and occasionally single digits °F (-10 to -15 °C). Snowfall is frequent but varies annually, with accumulations ranging from a few inches to over a foot.

Spring and autumn in Shorewood Forest feature transitional weather. Spring, from March to May, starts off cool but gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s °F (5-20 °C). Rainfall is moderate during this period. Autumn, from September to November, begins with mild temperatures in the 60s °F (15-20 °C) and gradually cools down to the 40s °F (5-10 °C). Rainfall levels are relatively steady during autumn as well.

Overall, the climate of Shorewood Forest, IN is characterized by distinct seasons, with warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild transitional weather during spring and autumn.

Neighborhoods

Shorewood Forest is a beautiful neighborhood located in Valparaiso, Indiana. It is known for its serene and scenic surroundings, making it an ideal place to live for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Shorewood Forest:

The Lakes

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is centered around the picturesque lakes in Shorewood Forest. Many homes here have stunning lakefront views and offer easy access to activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking. The Lakes neighborhood also features well-maintained walking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Woods

This neighborhood is characterized by its lush greenery and dense wooded areas. The homes in The Woods are nestled among trees, providing a secluded and private atmosphere. Residents can enjoy the beauty of nature right at their doorstep and may catch glimpses of local wildlife such as deer and birds.

The Pines

Similar to The Woods, The Pines neighborhood in Shorewood Forest offers residents a tranquil setting surrounded by tall pine trees. The homes here often have larger lots, providing ample space for outdoor activities and gardening. The Pines is known for its peaceful ambiance and is a favorite among nature lovers.

The Fairways

This neighborhood is situated near the Shorewood Forest Golf Course, offering residents easy access to the greens. The Fairways features homes with beautiful views of the golf course and its well-manicured fairways. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate living in close proximity to this well-regarded course.

The Bluffs

The Bluffs neighborhood is located near the bluffs of Lake Louise, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding scenery. Homes in The Bluffs often have larger plots and may be situated on elevated terrain, maximizing the panoramic vistas available. This neighborhood is popular for its stunning natural landscapes.

Overall, Shorewood Forest is a meticulously planned community that offers various neighborhoods to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer lakeside living, woodsy environments, or proximity to golf courses or lake bluffs, there is an option for everyone in Shorewood Forest.

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