Banning and Kuhn Lakes have the best water quality in the chain because their small watersheds contribute fewer nutrients.

Water leaving the Barbee chain heads north and feeds Tippecanoe Lake.

All of the lakes support bluegill, largemouth bass, yellow perch, catfish, and crappie.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources maintains a boat ramp on Kuhn Lake's north side.

Access to Tippecanoe is possible for boats 16 feet (4.9 m) and shorter in length through a manually operated lock.