Water Activities
The streams and lakes of Shawnee National Forest offer places to paddle, swim, and troll along. Ramps and beaches are available to help get visitors easily on the water.
Search for Water Activities Opportunities
Bay Creek Lake
Site Open
Bay Creek Lake, also known as Millstone Lake is about 96 acres and fed by Bay Creek. Bay Creek is known for its clear clean spring-fed waters. This lake is becoming more popular, but it is not…
Cedar Lake
Site Open
The shores of this 1,750-acre lake is lined with forests and colorful bluffs. National forest land encompasses the south end of the lake and provides one of the most tranquil water settings in the…
Dutchman Lake
Site Open
This 118 acre lake is not far from main highways and the small town of Vienna, IL. where stores and gas stations are available for food, gas and live bait. Dutchman Lake is also easily accessible…
Johnson Creek Recreation Area
Site Open
Located on a northwest finger of beautiful Kinkaid Lake, Johnson Creek Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Here you will find something for everyone in the family, from camping…
Kinkaid Lake & Trail System
Kinkaid Lake is one of the few large lakes in the region that offers a variety of recreational activities. Popular activities include primitive camping, fishing, hunting, canoeing/kayaking, horseback…
Lake Glendale Recreation Area
Site Open
If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side…
Lake of Egypt
Site Open
The southeast side of the Lake of Egypt is surrounded by Shawnee National Forest and open to primitive camping in the general forest area. Hickory Ridge Boat Launch is a gravel launch situated on…
Lake Tecumseh
Site Open
This is a very shallow lake (approximately 4 feet or less). It was constructed for flood control purposes. Water levels fluctuate widely and sport fish population are marginal.Â
Little Cache Lake #1 (Bowman Lake)
This 21-acre lake is located off of Bowman Bottoms Road in Johnson County, north of Vienna, IL. The lake is shallow and the species present include bluegill, largemouth bass, redear, channel…
Lusk Creek Canoe/Kayak Access
Site Open
Float one of the most scenic creeks in southern Illinois. Lusk Creek Canoe/Kayak access is located just minutes from Eddyville, IL and offers easy access for recreating on beautiful Lusk Creek.…