Located below the dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers maintains a Tailwater Recreation Area. This area provides great access to those that may prefer stream fishing as opposed to a lake setting. Two fishing piers are available with accompanying parking, restroom facilities, a playground area, as well as a walkway along a portion of the Big Raccoon Creek that links parking areas to additional fishing locations and scenic areas. A small pavilion shelter and several individual picnic tables and grills can also be found. During winter, this location boasts a wide variety of migratory waterfowl enjoyed by birders. (Site is ADA accessible)

Situated across the dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers maintains a picnic area overlooking the main body of the lake that includes two, large pavilion shelters available for use on a first-come-first serve basis or reserved by contacting the project office. These pavilion shelters are equipped with electricity, picnic tables, and grills. Ample parking is available, as well as restroom facilities, two playground areas, a fishing pier, and a public use seawall for courtesy vessel mooring while using the area. Several individual picnic tables, benches, and grills can also be found. (Site is ADA accessible)

Much of the project lands and waters owned by the US Army Corps of Engineers at Cecil M. Harden Lake are leased to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to manage for recreation and fish and wildlife. At locations managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, many recreational opportunities and amenities are provided such as: modern and primitive camping sites, youth tent areas, hiking & biking trails, a swim beach, five boat launching ramps, fishing access, public hunting grounds, an archery range, several reservable shelters, as well as a catalogue of interpretive naturalist programs and services. For an exhaustive list of offerings and amenities available, please visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website for Cecil M. Harden Lake / Raccoon State Recreation Area.