Bay Creek Lake

Area Status: 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 easily found and there are no directional signs from the main highway. 

The lake lies north of State Hwy 147 near the small town of Simpson, IL.  Access is by gravel and dirt roads and then a short portage of your canoe or kayak is necessary to reach the lake. 

However the clear clean waters of Bay Creek Lake make it worth the trip to relax and enjoy the seclusion of this 96-acre lake. 

At a Glance

Operational Hours: Open year round.
Usage: Light
Restrictions: No camping allowed within 150 feet of the lake. Camping is available at the Lake Glendale Recreation Area located 6 mile south along Hwy 145. Anglers must not use more than 2 poles and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing. Catch Limits:
  • Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily creel limit
  • Largemouth Bass: 15 inch minimum length.
Closest Towns: Vienna, IL 62995
Water: no
Restroom: no
Information Center: Hidden Springs Ranger District (618) 658-2111

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

General Info:

Parking

Vehicle Access:
A unimproved gravel road provides good access to the lake.

Boat Access:
From the boat launch travel approximately 1/4 mile up Bay Creek to access the lake. Fishing from small carry in boats is the preferred way to fish this lake.

 


Permits & Regulations

Anglers must not use more than 2 poles and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing.

Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily creel limit
Largemouth Bass: 15 inch minimum length.


Safety Information

Closest Medical Facility:
Harrisburg Medical Center
100 Hospital Dr. (P.O. Box 428)
Harrisburg, IL 62946
(618) 253-7671


Day Hiking

Obtaining hiking maps of the area is highly recommended. Opportunities include hiking to Bay Creek Lake and the surrounding Jackson Falls area.

Backpacking

Obtaining hiking maps of the area is highly recommended. Opportunities include hiking to Bay Creek Lake and the surrounding Jackson Falls area. Camping is allowed outside designated Natural Areas.

Boating - Non-Motorized

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.48268

  Longitude : 
-88.68864