Chicago Heights Lakes

Lakes Close to Chicago Heights

Every once in a while you just need to gather your family and friends and make time to be near the water. Fortunately, when you come to Chicago Heights you have quite a few options when it comes to spending time on the lake.

There are numerous great arguments for a getaway to a lake in Chicago Heights during the warmer months – the cool water for swimming, relaxing summer entertainment such as boating, fishing or swimming. You’ll find that some lakes have beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day. Scan the local listings below and see the options from swimming lakes to all sports lakes for you to visit.

Lakes Near Chicago Heights

Lake Activities

A quick excursion to a lake, or a more lengthy trip provides a nearly limitless list of activities for families, couples, or even those seeking some quality alone time.

Any stay on or in the water gives you all the options from partying to restful bliss.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. If you want a little physical activity, load up your preferred vessel and find yourself a lake with a boat launch and start paddling around to soak up the scenery on the waterfront.

Fishing. For those that love to fish, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re out on a boat or tossing a line in from the dock.

Get in the water. The swimming lakes near Chicago Heights provide all kinds of laughs and games for the youngsters, or all the physical activity that an exercise junky could want in between working on their tan. If you want to spend time swimming and on the beach you’ll want to be sure your lake has a sandy beach and a designated swimming area prior to packing the car and the family! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool doesn’t hold a candle to a glorious public beach on a lake near Chicago Heights!

Lake Checklist

A day at the lake can be very different depending on the lake you’re heading to, what the weather is going to be, or if there are any activities planned. For your benefit, we took the time to make a list for some ideas for your watery excursion so you have everything you need!

Lake basics

When you’re out on a lake near Chicago Heights you’ll probably want to bring some of the items below so that you’ll be safe, healthy, and having fun.

  • A cooler with water
  • Something to eat
  • Portable phone charger
  • Towels
  • A beach blanket and umbrella
  • Trash bags (one for trash, one for wet items)
  • UV protection
  • Insect repellant
  • Portable stereo
  • Bottle opener

More lake gear

Consider your planned activities for the day and who will be joining you, the list of gear might also prove useful and worth packing before hitting the road.

  • Diapers (if a baby’s on board)
  • Wine key
  • Legal flotation devices
  • Masks and snorkels
  • Pool noodles, rafts, floats
  • Something to read
  • Games for the beach
  • Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
  • Tackle box and lures
  • Fishing and boating licenses

Lake Safety Checklist

Of course your getaway at your favorite body of water can provide ample amounts of fun, safety should remain top of mind at all times. When you decide to spend a day at the lake these are some extremely important tips for keeping everyone safe.

  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
  • Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while boating
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Use sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy outside
  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat

Some More Tips

If you’re going to visit the beautiful lakes around Chicago Heights, you’ll want to remember a couple critical items that will make your weekend gameplan much more rewarding. For example, each individual lake has their own environment which makes it important to consider what will make for a memorable getaway as you plan yours.

  1. Do homework on the beaches. Early, mid, or late season, sometimes the beaches near Chicago Heights can get very crowded. To find some space to yourself, research multiple lakes in the area to learn about how busy they are if you want a more relaxing vibe. If you want to be where the party’s at, search out the biggest, most happening beach!
  2. Find a marina. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas where you can rent a boat. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or a day of watersports. Doing a quick Google search will usually allow you to find a marina that has what you need.
  3. Make the most of unique assets in the area. If there’s time for a longer getaway, find local state campgrounds and parks which give you the ability to stay directly on the water for a reasonable price.