15 Best Lakes in Illinois
Forget what you thought you knew about Illinois. While the Prairie State is famed for its flat farmlands and bustling Chicago, it harbors a surprising secret: a treasure trove of stunning lakes, each offering a unique escape into nature. Imagine crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, serene shores ideal for fishing, and winding trails inviting you to explore. From the sprawling recreational hubs of central Illinois to the secluded, pristine waters of the south, these lakes are vibrant ecosystems and playgrounds waiting for you to discover.
This guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through the 15 best lakes in Illinois, revealing their hidden charms, practical tips, and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your perfect Midwestern adventure. The best time to visit these aquatic havens is typically from late spring through early fall, when temperatures are ideal for water activities and the surrounding landscapes are lush and vibrant. To avoid the busiest crowds, consider planning your visit on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons of May or September. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty and endless recreational opportunities that await you!
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $60 – $90 (campgrounds, basic motels) | $120 – $180 (mid-tier hotels, cabins) | $250 – $400+ (resorts, premium vacation rentals) |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $30 – $50 (groceries, fast casual) | $60 – $100 (casual restaurants, a few sit-down meals) | $120 – $200+ (fine dining, specialty meals) |
| Transportation (per day) | $0 – $15 (walking, some local public transport) | $40 – $70 (car rental, gas) | $70 – $120+ (larger car rental, more gas, occasional ride-sharing) |
| Activities & Attractions (avg. per day) | $5 – $15 (park entry, self-guided tours) | $20 – $50 (some guided tours, boat rentals) | $60 – $150+ (specialized tours, premium rentals, unique experiences) |
| Total Daily Budget | $100 – $170 | $240 – $400 | $500 – $870+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $700 – $1190 | $1680 – $2800 | $3500 – $6090+ |
Lake Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville is truly a jewel of central Illinois, renowned for its vast expanse of clear water and a reputation as a prime fishing destination, especially for crappie, walleye, and bass. What makes this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lake special is its sheer size and the multitude of recreational opportunities it offers, making it a perfect multi-day getaway. You can expect to see numerous marinas, well-maintained campgrounds, and miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and offer scenic lake views.
Boating is king here, whether you prefer sailing, powerboating, or kayaking. There are also designated swimming beaches, perfect for families to cool off on a hot summer day. The lake is surrounded by state parks like Wolf Creek State Park and Eagle Creek State Park, providing excellent amenities and access points. For those interested in its history, Lake Shelbyville was created in the late 1960s for flood control and recreation, transforming the landscape into the vibrant tourist hub it is today. Anglers often find the best fishing during the spring and fall migrations, while summer is ideal for all water sports.
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Lake of Egypt
Lake of Egypt, nestled in southern Illinois, offers a distinctly different vibe from its northern counterparts. This private lake, built by Southern Illinois Power Cooperative, boasts some of the clearest waters in the state, making it a favorite for scuba diving and swimming. Its unique appeal lies in its deep, clean waters and the quiet, residential feel around its shores. You can expect to see a mix of vacation homes and local residences, with several public access points and marinas.
Beyond its renowned clarity, Lake of Egypt is a fantastic fishing lake, particularly known for its largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Boating is popular, from leisurely cruises to watersports, and the calm coves are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. The lake’s depth and rock formations also create an interesting underwater landscape for divers. With less commercial development than some larger lakes, it offers a more tranquil, yet still active, experience. This lake is ideal for families seeking a peaceful retreat, couples looking for a quiet getaway, and avid anglers or divers.
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Rend Lake
Rend Lake, another impressive U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir in southern Illinois, is a sprawling body of water known for its excellent waterfowl hunting, fishing, and diverse recreational opportunities. What makes Rend Lake unique is its emphasis on nature and conservation, with significant portions of its shoreline dedicated to wildlife management areas. You can expect vast open waters, ideal for sailing and powerboating, and numerous coves that are perfect for fishing.
The lake is a major stop for migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during migration seasons. There are multiple campgrounds, a resort, and the Rend Lake Golf Course, offering a variety of activities. The Rend Lake Dam and Spillway are impressive feats of engineering worth observing. This lake is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, anglers, and families looking for an active vacation with plenty of space. Its history is tied to flood control and recreation, transforming a rural landscape into a vibrant hub for outdoor pursuits.
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Devil’s Kitchen Lake
Devil’s Kitchen Lake, located just a stone’s throw from Lake of Egypt and Little Grassy Lake in southern Illinois, offers a more rugged and secluded experience. This smaller, deeper lake, also managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, is celebrated for its pristine waters and exceptional fishing, particularly for trophy-sized largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. What makes it unique is its strict regulations on boating – only electric trolling motors are allowed, ensuring a quiet, peaceful environment free from the roar of gas engines.
This makes it an angler’s dream and a haven for those seeking tranquility. You can expect densely forested shorelines, minimal development, and a strong focus on conservation. It’s an ideal spot for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, allowing you to quietly explore its many coves. This lake is perfect for serious anglers, nature photographers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle and immerse themselves in a serene natural setting.
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Lake Springfield
Lake Springfield, the largest municipal lake in Illinois, serves as a vital water source for the state capital and a beloved recreational hub for its residents. What makes this lake special is its seamless blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. You can expect to see a bustling lakefront with several marinas, boat clubs, and lakeside parks, all within minutes of downtown Springfield. It’s a popular spot for powerboating, sailing, and fishing, particularly for bass, crappie, and catfish.
The lake also features several public access points, including Lincoln Memorial Garden, a beautiful living memorial to Abraham Lincoln, offering serene walking trails with lake views. The shores are dotted with private residences, giving it a lively, community feel. This lake is perfect for families looking for easy access to water activities, local anglers, and anyone visiting Springfield who wants a natural escape without venturing too far. Its history is rooted in providing a water supply for the growing city in the 1930s.
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Lake Mattoon
Lake Mattoon, located near the city of Mattoon in central Illinois, is a smaller, more intimate lake that serves as a vital water supply for the area while also providing a pleasant recreational spot. What makes it special is its quieter, less crowded atmosphere compared to some of the larger Illinois lakes, offering a more relaxed experience. You can expect calm waters ideal for fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Boating is popular, though often at a more leisurely pace, and there are several small parks and boat launches around its perimeter.
The lake is surrounded by a mix of residential properties and natural areas, giving it a cozy, local feel. It’s a great spot for a peaceful afternoon of fishing from a boat or the shore, or a quiet paddle. Lake Mattoon is perfect for local families, anglers seeking a less competitive environment, and anyone looking for a serene escape without the hustle and bustle. Its history is tied to providing drinking water for Mattoon and Neoga.
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Little Grassy Lake
Little Grassy Lake, nestled within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in southern Illinois, is a picturesque and serene lake that truly lives up to its name with its lush, grassy shorelines. What makes this lake unique is its status as a highly protected natural area, emphasizing conservation and quiet recreation. Similar to Devil’s Kitchen, it has restrictions on motorboat size, making it a peaceful haven for paddlers and anglers. You can expect incredibly clear waters, abundant wildlife, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and nature observation.
It’s a prime spot for bass fishing, and its calm waters are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The Southern Illinois University Carbondale Touch of Nature Environmental Center is located on its shores, offering educational programs and outdoor adventures. Little Grassy Lake is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, paddlers, and anglers who prioritize a quiet, unspoiled natural setting. Its designation within a wildlife refuge ensures its pristine condition.
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Lake Decatur
Lake Decatur, located in the heart of Decatur, is the largest city-owned lake in Illinois and a central feature of the community. What makes this lake unique is its dual role as both the city’s primary water source and a vibrant recreational area, easily accessible to urban dwellers. You can expect a busy lake with powerboating, sailing, and fishing for bass, crappie, and walleye being popular activities. The lake’s shores are lined with parks, golf courses, and residential areas, giving it a lively, community-centric feel.
Several marinas offer boat rentals and services. Despite its urban setting, the lake provides ample space for various water sports and a refreshing escape from city life. Its history is tied to the growth of Decatur, with the original dam built in 1922 and later expanded. Lake Decatur is ideal for local families, urban adventurers, and anyone looking for convenient access to water recreation without leaving city limits.
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Clinton Lake
Clinton Lake, a large cooling lake for the Clinton Power Station, offers a unique blend of industrial marvel and natural beauty in central Illinois. What makes this lake special is its consistently warmer water temperatures, which can extend the fishing season well into the cooler months, especially for species like hybrid striped bass and walleye. You can expect a vast, open body of water perfect for powerboating, sailing, and jet skiing, with designated areas for different activities to ensure safety.
The lake is surrounded by Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, providing numerous amenities including campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Anglers particularly love the lake for its diverse fish population and the challenge of catching large specimens. The power station itself is a prominent landmark, adding a unique backdrop to the natural scenery. Clinton Lake is perfect for powerboaters, serious anglers, and campers looking for extended seasons and diverse recreational options.
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Evergreen Lake
Evergreen Lake, located near Bloomington-Normal, is a pristine, no-wake lake that serves as a vital water supply for the area and a tranquil haven for passive recreation. What makes Evergreen Lake special is its strict emphasis on preserving its natural beauty and maintaining excellent water quality, achieved by limiting motorized boat speed. You can expect incredibly clear waters, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and sailing.
It’s also a renowned fishing lake, particularly for muskie, bass, and walleye, attracting serious anglers who appreciate the quiet environment. The lake is surrounded by picturesque woodlands, offering scenic hiking trails and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Comlara Park on its shores provides well-maintained campgrounds and access points. Evergreen Lake is perfect for nature lovers, paddlers, serious anglers, and families seeking a peaceful, unhurried outdoor experience away from the noise of powerboats.
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Argyle Lake
Argyle Lake, nestled in Argyle Lake State Park in western Illinois, is a charming and picturesque lake known for its tranquil setting and excellent fishing opportunities. What makes this lake unique is its smaller, more intimate size, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, creating a secluded and peaceful atmosphere. You can expect a serene environment perfect for quiet fishing, especially for bass, bluegill, and crappie, from a boat or the shore.
Electric trolling motors are preferred, maintaining the calm. The park offers well-maintained hiking trails that loop around the lake, providing beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. There are also several picnic areas and campgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip or a quiet camping weekend. Argyle Lake is perfect for families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience, anglers, and campers who appreciate a natural, uncrowded setting.
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Lake Galena
Lake Galena, located within The Galena Territory, a resort community near the historic town of Galena, offers an exclusive and upscale lake experience in northwestern Illinois. What makes this lake special is its private, pristine nature, reserved primarily for residents and guests of the resort. You can expect incredibly clear waters, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, as well as excellent fishing for bass, bluegill, and walleye.
Powerboating is allowed but often restricted to certain hours and speeds to maintain tranquility. The lake is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, golf courses, and upscale homes, creating a picturesque and refined setting. Amenities include a marina, boat rentals, and designated swimming areas. Lake Galena is perfect for couples seeking a luxurious and peaceful retreat, families looking for a well-appointed resort experience, and anglers who appreciate a well-managed, private fishing ground.
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Lake Opeka
Lake Opeka, a smaller, charming lake located in Des Plaines, offers a surprising urban oasis in the bustling northern suburbs of Chicago. What makes this lake unique is its accessibility and family-friendly focus, providing a refreshing escape without a long drive. You can expect a well-maintained park area around the lake, complete with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic spots. It’s a popular spot for non-motorized boating, including paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes, which are often available for rent.
Fishing for panfish and bass is also popular from the shore or small boats. The lake is regularly stocked, ensuring good fishing opportunities. It’s a vibrant community hub, often hosting local events and summer programs. Lake Opeka is perfect for local families, solo visitors looking for a quick nature fix, and anyone in the Chicago area seeking a convenient and accessible spot for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
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Kinkaid Lake
Kinkaid Lake, located in the rugged Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, is an incredibly scenic and wild lake renowned for its dramatic bluffs, clear waters, and exceptional fishing. What makes this lake truly unique is its undeveloped, natural shoreline, with towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests that give it a wilderness feel, unlike many other Illinois lakes. You can expect breathtaking scenery, hidden coves, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for exploring by boat. It’s a premier fishing destination for muskellunge, largemouth bass, and crappie.
Boating is popular, from leisurely cruises to watersports, but the natural setting ensures a sense of solitude. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding forest, offering stunning overlooks. Kinkaid Lake is perfect for nature photographers, serious anglers, adventurous paddlers, and anyone seeking a truly wild and picturesque outdoor experience. Its natural beauty and challenging terrain make it a rewarding destination.
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Crab Orchard Lake
Crab Orchard Lake, the largest lake within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in southern Illinois, is a vast and diverse body of water offering a wide array of recreational opportunities alongside its primary mission of wildlife conservation. What makes this lake special is its sheer size and the balance it strikes between human activity and protecting natural habitats. You can expect extensive open waters for powerboating, sailing, and watersports, as well as numerous quiet coves perfect for fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish.
The refuge status means you’ll see abundant wildlife, especially migratory birds, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching and nature photography. There are multiple campgrounds, picnic areas, and boat launches, catering to a variety of visitors. Its history is tied to federal land acquisition and the creation of the wildlife refuge in the 1940s. Crab Orchard Lake is perfect for families, anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate a large, multi-use lake with a strong conservation ethic.
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Plan Your Visit
As you’ve seen, Illinois is far more than just flat plains; it’s a surprising aquatic wonderland dotted with lakes that offer an incredible diversity of experiences. From the bustling recreational hubs like Lake Shelbyville and Rend Lake, perfect for powerboaters and anglers, to the tranquil, pristine havens of Devil’s Kitchen and Little Grassy Lake, ideal for paddlers and nature lovers, there’s a shimmering surface for every preference. Whether you’re seeking a quiet fishing retreat, an adventurous weekend of watersports, or simply a scenic spot for a family picnic, these 15 best lakes in Illinois promise unforgettable memories.
So, pack your bags, prepare your fishing gear or paddleboard, and get ready to be charmed by the unexpected beauty of the Prairie State’s waterways. Remember to check local park websites for the most up-to-date information on fees and regulations, and consider booking accommodations or campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons. Your next great Midwestern adventure is waiting to be discovered on the shores of an Illinois lake!
