Every spring, the shores of Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, take on a festive and philanthropic twist with the annual Leprechaun Leap. This lively event—hosted by Cancer Resources for Elkhart County at Re‑Pete’s Simonton Lake Tavern—brings together community spirit, bracing lake water, and a good cause in one memorable afternoon. 

A Fun Fundraiser with Purpose
The Leprechaun Leap isn’t just a splash in the water—it’s a fundraiser with heart. Participants and supporters gather to raise money so that local families facing cancer can get needed assistance closer to home. 100% of the event’s proceeds stay in Elkhart County.  Typically held in late March (e.g., March 29, 2025) at Re-Pete’s on State Road 19, registration opens around noon, with the actual “leap” into the chilly water scheduled for about 2 p.m.

How It Works

• Entry: Whether you’re leaping or just watching, there’s an entry fee (around $25 at the door, or $20 if pre-registered). Kids 12 and under get in free.
• Activities: Expect food, a costume contest, live music and a radio broadcast (often via Froggy 102.7 FM), silent auctions, and plenty of lake-side fun. 
• The Leap: Participants dress up (typically in green or goofy costumes), parade down to the lake, and take the plunge—feet first! Yes, the water is cold, and yes, it’s shallow enough to keep things safe. 

Why It’s Worth Showing Up

1. Community & Cause: It’s a unique way to support local cancer patients while having fun with friends or coworkers.
2. Memorable Experience: Jumping into Simonton Lake in costume is something you’ll remember—and maybe laugh about for years.
3. For Everyone: Whether you’re a senior, a youngster, part of a team, or just there to watch and cheer, there’s a place for you.
4. Photo-Op Friendly: Between costumes, lake backdrop, and crowd energy, it’s a great event to capture and share.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Wear something you don’t mind getting wet—quick dry fabrics help.
• Bring a towel and change of clothes. The temperature of the water can be a shock, even in late March.
• Parking & Access: It can get busy, so arrive early and follow local signage for parking. 
• Spectator friendly: If you’re not leaping, bring a lawn chair and enjoy the fun from shore.
• Safety comes first: No diving or head-first jumps, and participants aged 12–17 must be accompanied by a guardian. 

Final Thoughts
The Leprechaun Leap at Simonton Lake is a spirited blend of fun, philanthropy, and community engagement. Whether you’re jumping into the cold water or cheering on from the docks, you’ll be part of something meaningful—raising funds for families in need and marking the start of spring in one of Elkhart County’s most iconic events.  Mark your calendar, gather your friends, and bring your warmest spirit (and a change of clothes!) to the next leap. You’ll leave colder than when you arrived—but a whole lot warmer in heart.

What to Do If You Find a Hypothermic Animal on Simonton Lake
Simonton Lake’s beautiful setting in Elkhart County attracts all kinds of wildlife—from ducks and geese to raccoons, squirrels, and even family pets wandering too close to the water. During winter, freezing temperatures, icy winds, and dangerously cold water can cause hypothermia in both wild and domestic animals. Knowing what to do if you find a hypothermic animal can make the difference between life and death.

Recognizing Hypothermia in Animals
An animal suffering from hypothermia has an internal temperature below normal. You might notice:

• Shivering or weakness
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Cold paws, ears, or tail
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness
• Pale or blue gums

Birds may appear fluffed up, unable to fly, or floating weakly on the water. Mammals may stumble, collapse, or stop moving entirely. Hypothermia sets in quickly, especially if the animal has been submerged in icy water.

Step 1: Ensure Your Own Safety
Never enter thin ice or dangerous water to rescue an animal. Simonton Lake’s ice conditions vary—currents, springs, and aerators can make certain areas unsafe. If the animal is in open water or unreachable ice, call for help:

• Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
• Local animal control or wildlife rehabilitator

If the animal is on land and not aggressive, you can assist safely from shore.

Step 2: Handle the Animal Carefully
Hypothermic animals are frightened and may bite or scratch. Use a towel, blanket, or gloves to gently pick up small animals. Avoid rubbing or massaging them—this can push cold blood back toward the heart, worsening shock. Keep movement minimal to prevent further heat loss or stress.  If the animal is large or wild, keep a safe distance and wait for trained responders. The Indiana DNR and licensed wildlife rehabilitators are equipped to handle wild animals legally and humanely.

Step 3: Provide Warmth Gradually
Move the animal to a dry, sheltered area, such as a heated garage, enclosed porch, or vehicle interior. Wrap it loosely in a dry towel or blanket. Avoid direct heat sources like space heaters or hair dryers, which can cause burns or rapid temperature changes.
For pets or small wildlife:

• Use warm (not hot) water bottles wrapped in towels.
• Place them near the animal’s body, especially along the abdomen and chest.
• Offer a quiet, dark space—stress and noise can make recovery harder.

If the animal begins to move or shiver, it’s a sign of recovery—but it still needs professional attention.

Step 4: Seek Veterinary or Wildlife HelpAs soon as possible, contact:

• A local veterinarian (for pets or domestic animals)
• Elkhart County Humane Society
• A licensed wildlife rehabilitator (for wild animals)

Wild animals should never be kept or treated at home. Indiana law requires that only certified rehabilitators care for injured or hypothermic wildlife. They have the proper equipment, medical supplies, and authorization to ensure safe recovery and release.

Step 5: Prevent Future Incidents
Keep pets away from icy shorelines and thin ice. For wildlife, avoid feeding ducks and geese near open water—encouraging them to linger increases their risk during freezes. Support local conservation efforts like the Simonton Lake Homeowners Association’s environmental programs, which help monitor wildlife health and habitat safety.

Final Thoughts
Finding a hypothermic animal on Simonton Lake is distressing, but calm, informed action can save a life. Prioritize safety, handle the animal gently, provide slow warming, and always seek expert care. By working with local wildlife professionals, you’re helping protect the lake’s cherished ecosystem—one life at a time.

Hunting in Indiana is not just about following the rules—it’s also about respecting the land, wildlife, and the community of other outdoorspeople. If you’re planning to hunt in the area around Simonton Lake in Elkhart, adopting good hunter etiquette ensures safety, harmony, and sustainability. Below are key principles and practices to observe, grounded in the Indiana DNR’s regulations and general good conduct.

1. Be Fully Licensed and Informed
Before stepping into the field or alongside waterways, ensure you carry the correct Indiana hunting licenses and stamps. For example, to hunt migratory waterfowl you must hold a valid Indiana hunting license, a state waterfowl stamp (or waterfowl privilege), and a federal duck stamp if 16 or older. 
Also register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP) if you’re hunting migratory birds. The state enforces nontoxic shot for waterfowl and prohibits lead shot in those pursuits. 
Be familiar with season dates, bag limits, shooting hours, and legal equipment. Indiana publishes its hunting and trapping guide each year with full details. 

2. Practice Respectful Firearm Safety and Shooting Behavior

• Do not shoot across roads, across bodies of water (unless legal and safe), or into or from public roadways. 
• Always maintain awareness of your target and beyond—ensure a clean shot and avoid stray bullets or ricochets.
• Wear hunter orange or high-visibility clothing (as an outer garment) during certain seasons to be clearly visible to other hunters. 
• Use approved, non-toxic ammunition when required (e.g. waterfowl). 

3. Respect Private and Public Property Boundaries
Much of the land around Simonton Lake is privately owned. Always obtain permission from landowners before entering their property. Be mindful of posted signage.  Even on public lands, obey posted rules such as no baiting, no cutting unnecessary vegetation, or rules about stand/ blind placement. Similar codes of conduct apply on land preserves generally.   Never field-dress deer or other game near trails, roads, or parking areas, and don’t leave parts of carcasses in public view. Indiana law prohibits dumping carcasses in waterways (it’s considered littering) and encourages responsible disposal. 

4. Minimize Disturbance & Leave No Trace

• Pack out all trash, shell casings, and debris. Don’t litter.
• Avoid driving vehicles off established roads or tracks.
• Leave natural vegetation, snags, and habitat features intact, unless trimming small sight lines is allowed by regulation.
• Avoid unnecessary calls, lights, or noise that might spook wildlife or alarm other hunters.

5. Be Considerate of Other Hunters

• Yield to others who arrive first or have established blinds or stands.
• Avoid crowding hunting zones.
• Do not harass or interfere with other legal hunters (Indiana’s “hunter harassment” law prevents this) 
• Share water and access when reasonable; don’t block trail access or crowd popular hunting walks.

6. Report Harvests and Follow Tagging Rules
Once you take legal game, tag it immediately (following state tagging rules). For deer, Indiana has a temporary paper tag system that requires recording license number, location, sex, etc.  Submit harvest reports as required by state law—even if no game is taken. Accurate data supports wildlife management and future hunting opportunities. 

7. Embrace Safety and Courtesy First
Hunting is inherently risky; prioritize safety:

• Hunt with a partner when possible.
• Let someone know your location and expected return time.
• Carry first-aid gear, a map, a communication device.
• Be respectful to non-hunters in the area—many lake users are boaters, anglers, or families enjoying the water.

Hunter etiquette and compliance with Indiana DNR regulations go hand in hand. At Simonton Lake and nearby lands in Elkhart, following these guidelines maintains access, conserves wildlife, and ensures everyone can enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Whether you’re pursuing waterfowl, deer, or small game, your conduct matters. Be legal, be cautious, and leave the ground better than you found it.

Simonton Lake in Elkhart County is not an isolated, closed body of water. Like most natural lakes, it maintains a delicate balance of water input and output, keeping lake levels steady (or fluctuating within limits). Understanding how water enters and leaves the lake is key to managing water quality, shoreline erosion, and flood control.

Inflows: How Water Enters the Lake
Groundwater and Springs
Simonton Lake is primarily spring-fed, meaning much of its water comes from groundwater seeping into the lake substrate. This source is relatively stable over time and less subject to short-term weather fluctuations. According to the Simonton Lake HOA’s environmental resources, no major rivers or streams flow into the lake; instead, underground springs supply a baseline inflow. 

Surface Runoff
Rainfall and snowmelt create surface runoff across the surrounding watershed. That water flows over lawns, streets, roofs, and fields, picking up sediments, nutrients, and pollutants before entering the lake. In heavy rain events, runoff can be a significant contributor to lake water volume, especially if impervious surfaces are extensive.

Minor Tributaries and Storm Drains
Although there are no large inflowing rivers, small creeks or drainage ditches may carry stormwater into the lake, especially after heavy precipitation. These minor tributaries are often intermittent and may dry up during dry periods.

Outflows: How Water Leaves the Lake
Lilly Creek / Osolo Ditch
The primary outflow from Simonton Lake is via Lilly Creek (also called Lilly Ditch or Osolo Ditch), which carries excess water southward from the lake. From there, it eventually empties into the St. Joseph River. The lake’s outflow through Lilly Creek helps manage water levels during wet periods. 

Weir Control
To help regulate outflow and protect lake levels, a weir structure has been proposed (and in planning) for Lilly Creek. A weir is a barrier across a channel designed to allow controlled overflow at a designated elevation. In times of high lake levels, excess water spills over the weir; in low water periods, the weir helps retain water in the lake until it rises to the threshold. This approach helps stabilize fluctuations in lake levels. 

Water Balance and Fluctuation
The health and level of Simonton Lake depend on the delicate balance between input and output:

• During dry spells, groundwater and limited runoff may not fully offset losses through the outflow or evaporation, causing lake levels to drop.
• During heavy rain or snowmelt, surface runoff may overwhelm the capacity of Lilly Creek or the weir, causing temporary flooding or shoreline inundation.
• The weir structure plays a crucial role in ensuring the lake does not drop too low or overflow excessively, especially in extreme years.

Seasonal influences like precipitation, snowmelt, and evapotranspiration (water lost through plant and soil surfaces) further affect how much water remains in the lake versus how much flows out.

Why It Matters to Lake ResidentsUnderstanding where the water goes is more than academic—it’s essential for:

• Lake level management: Residents want stable water levels to protect docks, lakeshore properties, and boat access.
• Erosion control: Sudden or sustained high water levels can erode shorelines; low levels can expose sediments and change nearshore habitat.
• Water quality: Runoff carries nutrients and pollutants; how quickly water is flushed out affects the retention and dilution of contaminants.
• Flood prevention: Properly designed outflow structures (like the weir) help buffer against flood damage in extreme weather.

Simonton Lake's water moves in through groundwater springs and runoff, and it flows out through Lilly Creek. A controlling weir helps stabilize levels by acting as a gatekeeper, allowing excess water to exit only when levels rise above a set threshold. This hydrologic cycle shapes both the lake’s ecology and its usability by residents.