25 Secluded Towns Deeply Rooted in Northwest Indiana

There are places on the map that seem to whisper rather than shout, towns that sit patiently behind curtains of pine, along slow-turning rivers, or at the far end of familiar roads. In Northwest Indiana, you’ll find them quietly holding onto their rhythm, unchanged by the rush beyond their borders. Life moves gently here, measured not in hours but in seasons, harvests, and stories passed between porches.

These are towns that feel lived in and deeply rooted, where the stillness isn’t empty but full of meaning. Maybe you’ve driven by without noticing, or maybe you’ve felt their pull without knowing why. For those seeking peace, memory, or simply the comfort of a place that doesn’t need to explain itself, they offer something rare.

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This is a collection of 25 such towns, tucked-away corners of Northwest Indiana where quiet is not just a sound, but a way of being.

25. Haskells: Sleepy Corner Near the Kankakee

Haskells is a quiet hamlet tucked into the southern edge of Lake County, where time seems to slow down. I love the way it rests just beyond the reach of busier highways, surrounded by fields and the winding hush of the Kankakee River.

With fewer than a couple hundred residents, Haskells is more of a dot on the map than a bustling destination. But its simplicity and stillness are what make it so magnetic. You’ll find old farmhouses, long gravel driveways, and broad skies that stretch out endlessly.

There’s an understated beauty to this spot—perfect for those who crave seclusion without straying too far from civilization. When I stop here, it feels like the noise of the world gets left behind on the road.

Where is Haskells?

Haskells sits along the Lake-Newton County border, not far from Shelby and the bends of the Kankakee River. It’s reached via State Road 55 and local county routes that twist through farmland and wetlands.

There’s no sign announcing the town, which is part of its allure. The patchwork of meadows and waterways create a natural barrier, giving Haskells a quiet that feels earned, not accidental.

24. Enos: A Forgotten Hamlet in Newton County

Enos is one of those places you only find if you’re looking for nothing in particular. Set deep in Newton County, this forgotten hamlet is little more than a cluster of homes and a few barns, but it has a sense of peace that’s impossible to ignore.

The fields stretch wide and golden here, and silence reigns in the best possible way. I often find myself drawn to its gravel roads and wind-shaped trees, each turn unveiling something softer, slower.

There’s no commerce, no main street, not even a gas station. But that’s part of its magic—it invites you to just be still.

Where is Enos?

Located south of Lake Village and west of Morocco, Enos is tucked along County Road 500 W. It’s near the Indiana-Illinois state line and surrounded by uninterrupted farmland.

The area is bordered by tall grasses, ditches, and sky—an unmarked haven perfect for those seeking a pause in their journey.

23. Fair Oaks: Hidden Agricultural Heartland

Fair Oaks is known to some for its farms, but outside of that, few realize how secluded this stretch of Newton County truly feels. With large dairies and expansive cornfields, it’s the definition of wide-open rural Indiana.

Despite its agricultural fame, the town itself is still and residential, with quiet streets and a handful of scattered homes. I like walking the gravel shoulders here as the scent of fresh hay and earth fills the air.

Fair Oaks captures that classic Hoosier hush—mornings marked by fog rising over fields and nights dotted with stars unspoiled by city light.

Where is Fair Oaks?

Fair Oaks is located along U.S. Route 231 in central Newton County, surrounded by farmland and conservation areas. While the Fair Oaks Farms attraction draws some attention, the town itself remains distant from the bustle.

It’s bordered by flat plains that stretch for miles, offering unobstructed views and a true sense of isolation once you leave the highway behind.

22. Salem Heights: Rolling Roads in LaPorte County

Salem Heights isn’t a place marked by signs or attractions—it’s a high spot on a low road in LaPorte County, perched amid gentle hills and tree-lined crests. When I drive through, I can’t help but slow down and breathe a little deeper.

There’s an old schoolhouse feel to the area, with its tight turns and historic farmsteads nestled into the land like they’ve always belonged. It’s the kind of spot where neighbors wave as they mow their lawns and deer step lightly through the ditches.

You’ll find no shops or traffic here, just silence broken by wind through the treetops.

Where is Salem Heights?

Salem Heights sits just south of LaPorte, close to Route 39, yet it feels like a world apart. The elevation offers long views of green and gold fields layered against forest backdrops.

It’s tucked away from any main roads, surrounded by wooded parcels and old gravel paths that keep it hidden from casual travelers.

21. Sumava Resorts: Riverbank Solitude

Despite its name, Sumava Resorts isn’t a flashy vacation spot. It’s a sleepy little riverside community near the Illinois border, nestled beside the Kankakee River’s lazy turns and the rustle of cottonwoods.

Homes here are tucked into the trees, some dating back to the 1920s when this area was more retreat than residence. I always enjoy how the sunlight dances through the leaves and across the river, casting moving shadows on porches and footbridges.

Sumava has a rustic charm—a remnant of another era where peace was the only luxury needed.

Where is Sumava Resorts?

Sumava Resorts is located in Lake County near the state line, just north of Lake Village. It hugs the banks of the Kankakee River and is accessible by winding county roads off U.S. Route 41.

Though it’s not far from the town of Schneider, the tall trees and water barriers create a strong sense of quiet and remove.

20. Tefft: Quiet Forest Gateway

Tefft sits at the edge of the forest in Starke County, wrapped in trees and framed by narrow roads that curve like creekbeds. I find it soothing here—the way the forest seems to rise up and embrace the tiny collection of homes.

There are no businesses in Tefft, just weathered barns, cabins, and that unmistakable piney scent you get in the cooler months. It’s a great spot for long walks with only birdsong for company.

There’s a calm in Tefft that seems to settle right into your bones.

Where is Tefft?

Tefft lies on the southern end of Starke County, near the Pulaski County border. It’s nestled close to the Tippecanoe River State Park, surrounded by thick woods and natural trails.

The remoteness comes from the dense forest cover and the single-lane country roads that twist away from any major highway, making it feel tucked deep into the wilderness.

19. Thayer: River Town with Hidden Roots

Thayer might be small, but it has roots that stretch deep along the Kankakee River. This Newton County hamlet feels almost untouched by time, with just a handful of homes and a narrow road winding through tall grass.

I like walking near the old bridge here, watching herons coast low over the water. There’s a strong connection to the land in Thayer—one of fishing poles, berry bushes, and quiet evenings on wooden porches.

It’s the sort of place where everyone knows your name, but most of the world has forgotten it exists.

Where is Thayer?

Thayer is located in northern Newton County, not far from Shelby and Sumava Resorts. It’s accessible by following County Road 1000 N west of Shelby.

With the Kankakee River nearby and few through roads, the area retains a distinct stillness. Fields, forest strips, and wetlands surround it on all sides.

18. Wheeler: Duneside Refuge

Wheeler is a tiny unincorporated hamlet cradled between towering oak woods and the sandy ridges of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Here, time unfurls at the pace of lapping waves and rustling dunes rather than rush‑hour blare. The village feels suspended between water and forest, where morning mist rises off the lake to mingle with pine needles underfoot.

For a place of fewer than 300 souls, Wheeler packs a remarkable natural punch: wildflower‑dotted bluffs slope down through rolling prairie grass to 15 miles of sandy beach just a stone’s throw from your front porch. Homes perch along narrow lanes that wind through cedar groves, their windows catching dawn light off the water. It’s a spot where you can glance north to Chicago’s skyline and still feel utterly removed from its bustle.

Local life here blends quiet ritual with seasonal rhythms: fishermen haul nets at sunrise, dunes walkers trace silent paths at noon, and in autumn the breeze carries migrating shorebirds south in perfect V‑formations. I come for the hush of the lake at dusk, when the horizon blurs and every breath tastes of salt and pine. Wheeler proves that the grandest escapes are sometimes found in the smallest of places.

Where is Wheeler?

Wheeler sits in northeastern Porter County, just south of the Indiana Dunes State Park and 35 miles southeast of downtown Chicago. It’s wedged between U.S. 12 (Dunes Highway) to the north and the South Shore commuter rail line to the south.

To reach Wheeler, follow State Road 49 south from Gary or head east on U.S. 12 from downtown Valparaiso, then turn north on County Road 200 West. From there a single paved road threads through dunes and marsh before opening onto the lakeshore, marking your arrival at this secluded refuge.

17. Pleasant Township: A Pastoral Canvas in LaPorte County

Pleasant Township lives up to its name—it’s serene, flat, and framed by tidy fences and long tree lines. It doesn’t have a town center, just clusters of homes and long driveways that disappear into groves of maple and pine.

The township’s wide horizon and open farmland bring a feeling of space you don’t realize you’ve missed until you stand in the middle of it. I find the skies particularly vast here, whether in spring bloom or snow-swept silence.

It’s a place where peace isn’t a promise—it’s a presence.

Where is Pleasant Township?

Pleasant Township is located in the southern half of LaPorte County, bordered by Union Mills to the north and Westville to the east. It’s made up mostly of agricultural land and backroads.

Its remoteness comes from the absence of major highways or commercial zones, making it a true countryside gem.

16. English Lake: Water-Laced Seclusion

English Lake is a remote riverside community where marshland and water weave into the everyday rhythm. Located in Starke County, it’s a place I always find deeply quiet, where cattails sway and frogs sing from shallow banks.

The community is small, with just a smattering of homes perched along sandy, wooded trails. What draws me here is the blend of open skies and watery stillness—the sense that you’re standing somewhere between earth and sky.

Birdwatchers and paddlers know it, but otherwise, English Lake remains a secret whispered on the breeze.

Where is English Lake?

English Lake sits along the Kankakee River in northern Starke County, not far from the Porter County line. It’s hidden down winding rural roads off Route 49 and near the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area.

Surrounded by wetlands, old rail lines, and forest, its isolation is natural and complete—offering an untouched retreat into nature’s embrace.

15. Belshaw: Crossroads of Quiet in Lake County

Belshaw is a community tucked just south of Lowell. Its seclusion comes not from distance, but from quiet—few people, few homes, and plenty of space to breathe.

The landscape here is classic Northwest Indiana: fields, wildflowers, and slow roads framed by fencerows. I often take Sunday drives through Belshaw, windows down, admiring old barns and the golden rustle of cornfields.

There’s a beautiful calm to the place, especially at dusk when the sky softens and everything hushes.

Where is Belshaw?

Belshaw is located in southern Lake County along County Road 181st Avenue, just east of U.S. Route 41. It lies a few miles south of Lowell but feels much farther due to the open terrain and minimal development.

The surrounding farmland and sparse housing make Belshaw feel like a pause in the landscape—peaceful and perfectly still.

14. Ripley: Remote Junction in Pulaski County

Though just outside the official bounds of Northwest Indiana, Ripley skirts the southern edge and deserves mention for its quietude. Tucked along an old rail corridor, it’s the kind of place where rusted tracks and open skies form the only horizon.

Ripley is surrounded by endless crop fields and stretches of brushy woodland. What I appreciate here is the total silence—no hum of traffic, no city lights, just the gentle rhythm of nature and old routines.

It’s a timeless place that offers a deep, meditative stillness.

Where is Ripley?

Ripley sits on the southern edge of Starke County, nudging into Pulaski County. It’s reached via a maze of county roads south of San Pierre and west of Medaryville.

With no central town square and almost no signage, Ripley is a pure rural junction—ideal for those who seek absolute quiet in every direction.

13. Tilden: Whispered Settlement in Porter County

Tilden is more of a memory than a mapped town, nestled quietly between Hebron and Valparaiso. It’s a place of broad fields, skeletal barns, and silos that catch the last rays of afternoon light.

What draws me to Tilden is how invisible it feels—just a few houses tucked among tree lines and fence posts. The area doesn’t have a main street or signs, only the soft, unbothered cadence of country life.

It’s one of the least disturbed corners of Porter County, and that’s exactly why I keep returning.

Where is Tilden?

Tilden lies southeast of Hebron, just off County Road 100 S and close to Route 2. It’s easy to pass without noticing, which makes arriving there feel like discovering something precious.

The tall grasses and absence of businesses contribute to its hush. Surrounded by farmland, it’s a place where you can stand still and hear nothing but wind.

12. Wellsboro: Ghost of the Railroad Era

Wellsboro once thrived as a railroad stop, but today it’s a faint echo of that history. Nestled in LaPorte County, it now consists of scattered homes and overgrown rail lines wrapped in thickets and trees.

I like visiting Wellsboro for the way it holds onto time—the crumbling signs, the quiet corners, and the gravel underfoot that tells stories of long-gone trains. The sky feels bigger here, and solitude seeps into every breeze.

It’s not just secluded—it’s suspended in another era.

Where is Wellsboro?

Wellsboro is tucked into the southern part of LaPorte County near State Road 39, southwest of LaPorte city. It lies along old railway routes now mostly used by locals and birdsong.

With few markers and no business district, Wellsboro drifts gently into memory, surrounded by fields, woods, and the quietness of time left alone.

11. Morgan Township: Wide-Open Peace in Porter County

Morgan Township is a rural expanse more than a town, but it offers some of the most peaceful scenes in all of Porter County. Gentle hills and rows of corn stretch toward the horizon, interrupted only by the occasional barn or windmill.

I come here when I want to see the sky—vast and uninterrupted. The roads are slow and scenic, often leading past historic homesteads and blooming wildflowers.

It’s a sanctuary without walls, where even the wind sounds quiet.

Where is Morgan Township?

Located in central Porter County, Morgan Township sits east of Valparaiso and south of Washington Township. It’s framed by State Road 49 to the west and Route 2 to the north, though most access is by narrow county roads.

The area is dotted with farms and nature preserves, creating a low-density retreat that offers distance from everything while staying rooted in classic Hoosier countryside.

10. Kersey: Unincorporated Sanctuary in Jasper County

Kersey is a small unincorporated community with a population of just a few hundred residents, making it one of the more serene spots I’ve found in Jasper County.

The town doesn’t boast bustling industries, but agriculture plays a significant role here, with many local farms dotting the landscape. One of my favorite things to do in Kersey is simply enjoying the natural surroundings, whether it’s taking a leisurely walk along quiet country roads or bird-watching in the nearby woodlands.

Its secluded nature is due to the low housing density and the expanse of natural landscapes that envelop the area, offering a tranquil retreat from the noise of urban settings.

Where is Kersey?

Kersey is located in Jasper County, in the northwestern part of Indiana, off the beaten path and away from major highways, which adds to its sense of seclusion. It’s nestled between expansive fields and forests that provide natural barriers from surrounding towns.

To get there, I usually take State Road 10 and then venture onto smaller county roads that wind through the countryside, making the journey itself a peaceful experience. The town’s remote location and undeveloped surroundings make it a perfect sanctuary for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

9. Stillwell: Hidden Gem in LaPorte County

With a tiny population that hovers around a few hundred, Stillwell is truly one of LaPorte County’s hidden treasures. This unincorporated community doesn’t have much in terms of industry, but that’s part of its charm. I love visiting Stillwell for its peaceful atmosphere and the simplicity it offers.

The town is surrounded by undeveloped land, including forests and small lakes, which provide ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying nature. The sense of seclusion here is profound, as the town is tucked away from busy roads and larger cities, making it an ideal spot for anyone seeking a quiet environment.

Where is Stillwell?

Stillwell is situated in LaPorte County, nestled in the northern part of Indiana. It’s located off U.S. Route 6, but even then, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. The town’s remote location is enhanced by the surrounding woodlands and farmland, which create natural buffers from urban areas.

When I visit, I usually take the scenic back roads, which adds to the feeling of truly being away from it all. The lack of significant development around Stillwell helps maintain its status as a tranquil haven.

8. Roselawn: Quiet Community with Spacious Lots

Roselawn is a small census-designated place with a population of around 4,000, offering a quiet community vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. One thing that stands out to me about Roselawn is the spacious lots and the open feel of the town.

It’s a place where you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, thanks to the vast open spaces, or simply unwind in the privacy of your own large yard. There aren’t major industries here, but local businesses cater to the community’s needs.

Its secluded nature comes from the low-density housing and the natural surroundings that offer residents plenty of privacy and room to breathe.

Where is Roselawn?

Located on the border of Jasper and Newton counties, Roselawn sits along State Road 10, but its expansive layout gives it a secluded feel. The town is about an hour’s drive from larger cities like Gary, which helps it maintain a peaceful atmosphere away from urban congestion.

When I drive to Roselawn, I often enjoy the scenic route through the countryside, which enhances the sense of seclusion. The town’s spread-out nature and the surrounding farmland contribute to its quiet, rural character.

7. Lake Village: Rural Living Near the State Line

Lake Village is a quaint unincorporated community with a population of around 800 people. I find its rural charm irresistible, with spacious properties that offer a perfect setting for those who appreciate country living.

The community is surrounded by agricultural land, and local farms play a significant role in the area’s economy.

Outdoor enthusiasts like me can enjoy fishing and boating on nearby lakes or exploring the Kankakee Sands nature preserve. Lake Village’s secluded setting is largely due to its location away from major urban centers and the tranquility provided by its natural surroundings.

Where is Lake Village?

Situated in Newton County near the Illinois state line, Lake Village is accessible via U.S. Route 41, yet it feels worlds away from the bustle of city life. The town’s proximity to the state line adds to its secluded feel, as it’s surrounded by expansive fields and the quiet of rural landscapes.

When heading there, I prefer the leisurely drive through country roads, which underscores the peacefulness of the area. The separation from larger towns and limited development make Lake Village an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude.

6. San Pierre: Tranquil Hamlet Amidst Woodlands

San Pierre is a small unincorporated community with a population of just around 150 people. It’s surrounded by woodlands and fields, providing a tranquil environment that I find incredibly refreshing. The town has few industries, with agriculture being the primary focus.

Outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife observation are popular here, thanks to the nearby Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area. The natural barriers created by the dense forests contribute to San Pierre’s secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers like me.

Where is San Pierre?

Located in Starke County, San Pierre lies at the intersection of State Roads 10 and 421. Despite these roadways, the town remains quiet and undisturbed due to the surrounding woodlands.

Getting there involves driving through stretches of forested areas, which enhances the feeling of entering a secluded place. The distance from major cities and the presence of natural landscapes around San Pierre make it an ideal location for those looking to escape into nature.

5. Malden: Peaceful Farming Community

Malden is an unincorporated community with a small population that contributes to its peaceful ambiance. The town is primarily a farming community, and the agricultural surroundings provide a picturesque backdrop that I thoroughly enjoy.

There’s a simplicity to life here, with local events centered around the community and the agricultural calendar. Malden’s secluded location in the heart of farmland means there’s little traffic and plenty of open space, making it perfect for anyone seeking a simple country lifestyle.

Where is Malden?

Malden is situated in Porter County, nestled between Valparaiso and Kouts. It’s not far from State Road 49, yet the town feels quite removed from the hustle of busier areas.

I appreciate the scenic drive through rolling fields to get there, which sets the tone for a visit filled with tranquility. The sparse population and the expansive agricultural lands surrounding Malden enhance its secluded feel, making it a hidden gem in Northwest Indiana.

4. Rolling Prairie: Quiet Countryside Living

Rolling Prairie is a census-designated place with a population of around 600 residents, offering a quiet lifestyle amid rolling landscapes. I find the open spaces and gentle hills here ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the countryside.

The town doesn’t have much in terms of industry, which helps maintain its peaceful environment. Local activities include visiting small parks and enjoying community events.

Rolling Prairie’s seclusion is due to its rural setting and the ample open space that allows residents like me to appreciate the beauty of nature undisturbed.

Where is Rolling Prairie?

Located in LaPorte County, Rolling Prairie is accessible via U.S. Route 20, but it’s far enough from larger cities to retain a quiet atmosphere. The town is nestled among farms and patches of woodland, which provide natural buffers from busier areas.

When traveling to Rolling Prairie, I often take the scenic routes that meander through the countryside, enhancing the sense of peaceful isolation. The combination of its rural location and limited development makes it a perfect spot for those desiring a serene environment.

3. Union Mills: Historic Village Nestled in Nature

Union Mills is a small unincorporated community with a rich history and a population of about 1,000 people. The village is surrounded by undeveloped land and boasts large lot sizes, giving residents ample space and privacy.

I enjoy exploring the historic sites in Union Mills, including old mills and buildings that tell the story of the town’s past.

lack of major industries adds to its quiet charm, while the natural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Union Mills’ seclusion comes from its setting amid nature, offering a peaceful retreat from modern life’s demands.

Where is Union Mills?

Union Mills is located in LaPorte County, not far from State Road 39. Despite its relatively accessible location, the town feels remote due to the surrounding forests and farmlands.

Getting there involves traversing serene country roads, which I always find relaxing. The natural landscapes around Union Mills create a buffer from urban areas, enhancing its secluded atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for anyone wanting to experience a quiet, historically rich community.

2. Shelby: Serene Seclusion Along the Kankakee River

Shelby is a small unincorporated community with a population of about 500 people, nestled along the Kankakee River. The natural beauty of the river and the low population density make it one of my favorite spots for a tranquil escape.

There’s a strong sense of community here, with local events centered around the river and outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing. The main industries are small businesses and agriculture, which contribute to the town’s laid-back vibe.

Shelby’s seclusion is enhanced by the expansive natural areas surrounding it, providing a serene environment away from the noise of larger towns.

Where is Shelby?

Located in Lake County, Shelby is accessible via State Road 55 but remains off the beaten path. The town is enveloped by natural landscapes, including the Kankakee River and nearby wetlands, which I love exploring.

Traveling to Shelby often involves winding roads through scenic areas, reinforcing the feeling of escaping into nature. The limited development and the presence of the river make Shelby a secluded haven for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

1. Boone Grove: A Hidden Rural Retreat in Porter County

Boone Grove tops my list with its rural charm and peaceful atmosphere. This unincorporated community has a population of around 600 people and is surrounded by farmland and forests.

I enjoy the simple pleasures Boone Grove offers, like visiting local farms, exploring wooded trails, and participating in community events at the historic Boone Grove High School.

There aren’t significant industries here, which helps maintain the quiet, small-town feel. The seclusion comes from its location away from urban centers and the natural barriers provided by the surrounding landscapes.

Where is Boone Grove?

Situated in Porter County, Boone Grove is tucked away south of Valparaiso, accessible via small county roads rather than major highways. The town’s remote location is accented by the expanses of farmland and patches of forests that isolate it from neighboring communities.

When I head to Boone Grove, the journey through peaceful countryside roads is part of the appeal. The sense of being enveloped by nature and the distance from city life make Boone Grove a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a genuine rural experience.