Imagine sailing across the calm waters while watching the sun rise. The mild touch of water against your boat and crisp air fill you with freshness and rejuvenation. Nothing beats the thrill of boating. Whether you’re a seasoned boater, watersports lover, or simply someone seeking a calm getaway from city life, Illinois hosts stunning hidden gems for a weekend escape.
Whether you want to start your day swimming, fishing, or enjoying nature, this land of Lincoln is the place for you. In this blog, we’ll explore the top boating lakes in Illinois and what makes each unique. Let’s get started –
Planning a day out on the water? Illinois has something for everyone. Let’s discover –
1. Carlyle Lake – Add Thrill to Every Trip
Sailing across Carlyle Lake feels like you’re stepping into the magical marine world. With more room to explore, it’s a top choice where you can dock or rent a boat.
- Visit this place during the week as it gets pretty crowded on weekends.
- Want to cast a line and find great catches? This lake is perfect for fishing.
Spanning over 26,000 acres of water, Carlyle Lake is the second-largest lake in the southwestern section of Illinois.
2. Lake of Egypt – Beautiful Escape Full of Camping Spots
The Little Egypt region of Illinois is home to this breathtaking reservoir. Although privately owned, Lake of Egypt is open to the public for exploration.
- Spanning across the southeastern area, it offers an elegant getaway that is full of camping spots.
- It’s free of cost, and you can camp anytime.
Planning a day out fishing with your friends? Find plenty of fish varieties here. These include stocks of black crappie, channel catfish, bluegill, and many more.
Want to spend your day on water while boating, swimming, tubing, jet-skiing, or water-skiing? Lake of Egypt is the ideal place to enjoy various water activities.
3. Devil’s Kitchen Lake – Lush Greenery and Valleys All Around
Being a part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, Devil’s Kitchen Lake is surrounded by lush greenery, steep slopes, and stunning valleys.
- If you’re a nature lover, just sit back and have a great time.
- Have easy access to the lake with three boat ramps available.
- Add more fun to your trip by hiking the nearby trails and finding out about different rock formations.
Fishing Spot
It’s a good spot for a fishing adventure as the lake has plenty of bluegill, redear sunfish, and yellow perch. Other than boating, you can also spend quality time kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and viewing nature.
4. Lake Michigan – One of the Stunning Lakes
Stretching over 22,400 square miles, Lake Michigan is the top pick to spend quality time basking in the sun or doing various boat activities.
Don’t have your own boat? Rent one from Chicago Boat Rentals.
Whether you are out on the open waters enjoying the mesmerizing views of the skyline or spending a good time at Illinois Beach State Park, this lake is an ideal place. Considered one of the stunning lakes in Illinois, Lake Michigan offers incredible beaches to enjoy the view.
Perfect Spot for Fishing
Not only this, but this lake is the perfect spot for fishing. You can find a wide range of fish species, such as smallmouth bass, chinook salmon, lake trout, and many more. Overall, enjoy your day by indulging in kayaking, paddleboarding, picnicking, and sightseeing.
5. Kinkaid Lake – A Southern Illinois Gem
Situated in Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake is a southern Illinois treasure and one of the favorites among nature lovers. Imagine gliding across the calm water backdropped by the rolling hills and prairie grasses.
Cliff Jumping
The exhilarating jump from gigantic 70-foot cliffs is a must-visit for the thrill lovers.
Hiking Spot
Not only this, it’s a dream place for hikers as they can enjoy the scenic trails ranging from long to shorter loops.
Other Activities
Plan your day at Kinkaid Lake and indulge in boating, tubing, kayaking, wakeboarding, camping, and nature gazing.
Whether you’re planning a pleasant day out with loved ones or a solo adventure, these stunning lakes in Illinois invite you to explore the magical wonders that lie off the lakeside. Consider it a warm invitation to immerse yourself in the scenic beauties of Illinois. The best time to visit these lakes is during spring and summer when the weather is warmer. However, if you wish to see vibrant colors and scenery, the fall season is the best.
Now that you know the best lakes to visit in Illinois, let’s explore the Illinois boating laws that you must follow.
Boating Laws in Illinois
Following the boating laws in Illinois is not just about avoiding hefty penalties but also about protecting others on the water. Stay responsible and make safety your foremost priority.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
You can’t operate a boat with a BAC that exceeds 0.08% or while under the influence of any other illegal drugs.
- Offending repeatedly may result in a prison term of up to twelve years.
- Boating under the influence and causing an accident may result in a prison term of a maximum of fourteen years.
Don’t Drive Carelessly
- Keep the boat to the right when you are approaching another boat from the front.
- Give the right of way to overtaken boats.
- Always yield to kayaks, sailboats, and rowboats.
- Never let your speed be a danger to others.
- Don’t jump the wakes of other vessels.
- Don’t drive very close to other boats.
Driving carelessly, even without being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is a misdemeanor.
Last, but not least, your boat must have a valid registration and title. Moreover, it’s important to display your registration number in Illinois.
Conclusion
Illinois is full of gorgeous lakes that are just waiting for you to discover. Whether you want to spend your day swimming, fishing, or simply basking in the sun, there is a perfect spot for everything. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before making a trip to these lakes.
So, plan a holiday with family and friends, pack some snacks, and hit the water for a relaxing and fun day.
