Illinois is filled with rolling hills and flat prairie grasslands. You’ll also find numerous lakes, mostly human-made and some natural, boasting picturesque beauties all around. Trees dotting their shorelines provide a shady area for you to spend a lazy afternoon. In addition, you can also enjoy plenty of pleasurable activities, both on and off the waters. Many birds and animals dwell in the wooded areas here and offer a treat to the eye.
This privately-owned scenic reservoir flows in northwestern Illinois’ Jo Daviess County. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride and admire the picturesque beauty by accessing the lake from the marina located at its east end. However, there is a prohibition on swimming here. Besides water activities, you can also choose to sit back and enjoy viewing the various birds like eagles, owls, wild turkeys, ospreys, blue herons, and ducks. Animals like white-tailed deer, red fox, turtles, beavers, muskrats are also frequently observed here.
Along its 7 miles shoreline, you will also find Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, where you can spend some time playing golf on their golf course. You can also visit the neighboring Thunder Bay Falls, a stunning 40 feet waterfall created by the lake’s spillway.
Fishing: You can catch many fish species here, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, bluegill, perch, and tiger muskie.
Other Activities: Boating, kayaking, picnicking, golfing, wildlife watching, sightseeing
Nestled amidst rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, Lake Carroll is the largest private reservoir in northwest Illinois. With two marinas, each on the east and west side of the lake, you can indulge yourself in the abundance of water activities here. The swim beach is also a great spot to have a refreshing dip or soak up the sun. Besides these, many hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the nearby lush valleys and hills. Wild turkeys and deer are a common sight here.
For those desiring to stay overnight, there are many lakefront vacation rentals available here.
Fishing: Lake Carroll stocks many fish varieties like walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, white bass, bluegill, redear, northern pike, channel and flathead catfish, carp, and pumpkinseed.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, tubing, water-skiing, jet-skiing, golfing, camping
Located in the Shawnee National Forest, Lake Glendale attracts many for its central location. Once you come here, you can admire the natural vistas of the pine and mixed hardwood trees along with scenic bluffs encompassing the shoreline. You can have a great time swimming or lying back in the beach area. In addition, there are also picnic shelters by the lake alongside boat rentals, available for those who wish to enjoy the waters. If you want to explore the scenic surroundings on foot, there is a 2-mile trail for you too.
Fishing: Anglers can expect to catch crappie, bass, bluegill, walleye, channel catfish, and sunfish.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking, bicycling, picnicking
The Little Egypt region of Illinois is home to this beautiful human-made reservoir. Though privately owned, this water body is open to the public to enjoy various water activities. You can access the lake with your boat from the Hickory Ridge Boat Launch, located in its eastern part in Johnson County. Positioned on its southeast side is Shawnee National Forest where you will find primitive camping sites in the Buck Ridge Campground area. It is free of cost, and you can camp here any time of the year.
Fishing: Stocks of largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, white crappie, channel catfish are in plenty here.
Other Activities: Swimming, tubing, boating, jet-skiing, water-skiing, camping, hunting
One of the state’s largest, Rend Lake, is a human-made reservoir with much to offer. Several sandy beaches lure visitors into taking a refreshing dip on a hot summer afternoon. With numerous boat ramps and a marina, boaters have ample opportunity to get into the clear waters.
After having a fun time at the lake, you can check into the visitor’s center, play a golf match at the nearby Rend Lake Golf Course or go shopping at the artisan and antique shops.
Avid wildlife watchers can walk to the Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area to spot various animals like deer, raccoons, herons, eagles, opossums, songbirds, and waterfowls. Here, you can also bring your picnic baskets to have an ideal family time by the lakeside.
With five public campgrounds on the shoreline and about 800 campsites, campers can enjoy putting up their tent in any spot of their choice.
Fishing: Bring your fishing rods to catch species like black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, birdwatching, hiking, picnicking, golfing, wildlife watching
Devil’s Kitchen Lake is a part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Nature lovers will have a great time viewing the surrounding lush greenery, sandstone valleys, and steep slopes. Though the waters are clear, swimming is not permissible due to the submerged stumps. Boating is a sought-after activity to enjoy the serene lake. With three boat ramps, you can have easy access, though the speed limit of motorboats is up to 10 HP. You can also hike the nearby scenic trails and explore the different rock formations.
You may even check neighboring attractions, such as Castle Park and Panther Den Wilderness if you have time left. Stargazing in the campground by the lakeside would be a perfect way to end the night.
Fishing: This lake has stock of rainbow trout. Other fish species found here are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and yellow perch.
Other Activities: Boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, nature gazing
Located in the south part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this lake is a quaint one with dense forest surrounding it. Its crystal-clear waters attract visitors to plunge into it. With the speed limit of motorboats restricted to 10 hp, it is a peaceful place to enjoy a relaxing time in nature. Also, this lake is pet-friendly, so you can also bring your dog along. For an extended stay, there are excellent camping sites where you can enjoy gazing at the twinkling stars while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves lapping the shore.
You need to spend a minimum amount to purchase a permit for your vehicle and boat from the visitor’s center. In addition, be sure to take your kids to the nearby Jeremy “Boo” Rochman Memorial Park for some fun and enjoyment.
Fishing: The lake is a popular warm-water fishing spot, and you can expect to catch plenty of fish, including bluegill, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, and channel catfish.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing, wildlife watching, camping, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, star gazing
Lake Michigan, the world’s largest freshwater lake covering 22,400 square miles, flows in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. On the Illinois side, you can access it from Chicago in the state’s southwest region. Head to the Illinois Beach State Park to spend some leisurely time basking in the sun or indulging in various boat activities. If you haven’t brought your boat, you can rent one from Chicago Boat Rentals near North Lake Shore Drive.
You can also check out the other key attractions of the city, including Navy Pier and Millennium Park.
Fishing: A wide variety of fish species are available in the Illinois side, including smallmouth bass, coho salmon, largemouth bass, chinook salmon, rainbow trout, and lake trout.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, picnicking, birdwatching, sightseeing
This lake in Shawnee National Forest is a southern Illinois gem and a favorite among nature lovers. From sandstone bluffs to rolling hills, oaks and hickories to prairie grasses, you’ll find them all surrounding the serene water body. You can take a boat ride to look around the picturesque scenery. For the fun-loving and daring souls, cliff-jumping from the 70 feet high cliffs is a popular activity. Hikers, too, can enjoy the nearby scenic trails ranging from long ones to shorter loops.
Fishing: This lake supports excellent fishing stock, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, walleye, and muskie.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, water-skiing, cliff diving, wakeboarding, camping, hiking, nature gazing, picnicking
Carlyle Lake, the state’s largest human-made water body, flows in the south-central part and is an hour-away drive from St. Louis. Bring your kids to the sandy beach here to have a great time getting wet in the waters or playing on the sand. If sailing is your hobby, then this is an ideal lake for you. Carlyle Sailing Association provides rental sailboats of various types and also suggests which one is best for you. In addition, many sailing regattas also take place here every year.
Apart from this, the lake provides excellent seasonal hunting opportunities for several species in the Department of Natural Resources, including quails, turkeys, doves, squirrels, and white-tailed deer.
Fishing: This lake offers good fishing opportunities for channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, picnicking, camping, hunting, bird watching, hiking, bicycling
Horseshoe Lake in southwestern Illinois boasts a 20 miles scenic shoreline. Its easy access from the metropolitan area of St. Louis makes it is a popular vacation spot. You can enjoy a relaxing time under the shades of bald cypresses or swamp cottonwood trees that dot the shorelines. In the afternoon, you can sit at one of the picnic tables available in the Horseshoe Lake State Park and enjoy a gala time with your kith and kin. The main boat ramp is on its northern shore, but you cannot access motorboats above 50 hp in the waters. You can also walk your furry friends along the nearby trails. In the evening, don’t miss watching the lovely sunset from the lakeshore.
Fishing: Fish species found in this lake include bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, spotted gar, shortnose gar, channel catfish, and sunfish.
Other Activities: Boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, picnicking
Lake Shelbyville, formed by the damming of the Kaskaskia River, attracts about 4 million tourists annually. It has a forested shoreline encompassed by the Eagle Creek State Park and Wolf Creek State Park. You can enjoy getting wet in the beach area near the dam or have a relaxing time in the shade. Boaters have fun accessing the vast water body all year round, even when the water levels are high. If you wish to explore further, you can head to the surrounding trails.
With five federal and two state campgrounds dotting its shores, you don’t have to worry about accommodation. Apart from this, you can also stay in Eagle Creek Resort and spend an evening playing golf on its 18-hole golf course.
Fishing: The lake abounds in largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, catfish, white bass, bluegill, and muskie.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing, jet-skiing, camping, hiking, picnicking, golfing
Lake Springfield serves as the domestic water supply for Springfield’s people, even providing for ample recreational activities. It is the state’s largest municipality-owned formed by the building of Spaulding Dam across Sugar Creek. With numerous boat docks, launches, and a marina, you can enjoy boat activities of all sorts. However, there is a prohibition on boating in the Spaulding Dam area. Lick Creek Wildlife Preserve offers a visual treat due to the abundant flora and fauna at its western end. In addition, you can witness more than 90 wildlife species in the Henson Robinson Zoo, located at the lake’s eastern shore.
You can also visit the historical sites related to Abraham Lincoln in Springfield. His only residence, which is now a national park, is also within the city.
Fishing: It is an angler’s paradise with about 15 sport fish found here, such as channel catfish, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, white crappie, bluegill, carp, tiger muskie, and many more.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing, water-skiing, sailboating, sightseeing, wildlife watching, nature gazing, camping
Boasting a shoreline of 30 miles, Lake Decatur is a big artificial water body. In addition to the five crossings on it, you can get its clear view while driving on the US Highway 36. You’ll find two of Decatur’s largest, Nelson Park and Faries Park, bordering the lake. Boaters need to purchase a day pass Lake Patrol office in Nelson Park to access the waters. Here you can also dine in the Beach House restaurant. Wildlife lovers can also visit the nearby Scovill Zoo, home to around 500 animals.
Fishing: Fish species populating the lake include largemouth bass, white crappie, black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, walleye, bluegill, hybrid striped bass, and white bass.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, hiking, wildlife watching, picnicking
Located north of Bloomington, Evergreen Lake has a 22-mile shoreline. You’ll find the Compare County Park and many conservation areas, such as Deer Island Area, Mallards Bay Conservation Area, Lake View Area, and White Oak Area, all around it. With two boat launches and one canoe launch, you can effortlessly enter the water to enjoy water activities. Also, small motorboats with low horsepower are permissible. Bring your cameras with you to capture the various wildlife here. You can also go exploring along the several surrounding trails.
Fishing: An excellent stock of black crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish, saugeye, muskellunge, walleye, white crappie, and carp is available here.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, hiking, biking, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing
You can easily reach this pretty little lake in east-central Illinois via Interstate 57. With greenery abounding the shores, the ace stands apt for picnicking. In addition, you can hike the scenic trails of Douglas-Hart Nature Center. There is also a little swim beach on its shore where you can enjoy wading or taking a dip. Kids, too, can have a fun time splashing in the shallow waters. If you want to spend more time in this nature’s abode, camping options are available here.
Fishing: Anglers can enjoy catching plenty of fish like white crappie, black crappie, channel catfish, striped bass, white bass, and walleye. You can also enjoy ice fishing here.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, camping, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, picnicking
This 1000 acre lake in Danville is a part of Lake Vermilion Count Park. It is a boater’s paradise during summers as visitors can enjoy power boating with no limitation applied on speed. However, you need to beware of the no-wake area in the north end of the lake. Also, it would help if you had boat registration decals before accessing here. You can also catch the sight of herons, river otters, and eagles.
Fishing: This lake has ample stocks of bass, crappie, walleye, tiger muskie, and catfish.
Other Activities: Swimming, tubing, boating, jet-skiing, water-skiing, powerboating, wildlife watching
This small lake in east-central Illinois boasts a beautifully wooded shoreline. You can enjoy many activities in and out of the water. There is a public beach, two marinas, campgrounds, and golf courses available here. To access your boats, you need to have a permit that you can acquire from any one of the marinas. In addition, you can also choose to have your meal in one of the two restaurants on the lakeshore.
Fishing: Frequent catches include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, white bass, white crappie, black crappie, and channel catfish.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, power boating, camping, picnicking, golfing
TOP PICKS
Best Lakes for Fishing: Rend Lake, Lake Shelbyville, Lake Springfield
Best Lakes for Boating: Devil’s Kitchen Lake, Evergreen Lake, Kinkaid Lake
Best Lakes for Camping: Lake Shelbyville, Evergreen Lake, Lake Carroll
Best Lakes for Swimming: Rend Lake, Lake Shelbyville, Little Grassy Lake
Best Vacation Lakes: Lake Shelbyville, Carlyle Lake, Rend Lake
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