Portage Park Lakes

Lakes Near Portage Park

The weather is warm so it’s time to pack up and head out for your upcoming summer adventure. If you’re looking for a fun destination, consider visiting a lake near Portage Park. Lucky for you, when you make a trip to Portage Park you have quite a few options for getting on, or in the water.

It doesn’t matter if you’re itching to go kayaking, get active with watersports, swim, or work on your tan, the lakes near Portage Park offer you plentiful beautiful locations for aquatic activities. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your vehicle with your beach goodies and snacks then make the trip this weekend and discover your own number one spot on the water!

Lakes Near Portage Park

Things to Do at the Lake

A day trip to the lake, or a longer getaway offers a nearly limitless list of things to do for families or couples.

A day, weekend, or a week on or in the water gives you everything from fun to relaxation.

Go for a swim. Finding a swimming lake near Portage Park will provide all kinds of laughs and games for the kids, or plenty of exercise for those looking to be active 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 nice swimming area and a sandy beach to spread out on prior to packing the car and the family! You know as well as we do that a swimming pool doesn’t offer as much to do as a glorious public beach on a lake near Portage Park!

Partake in some delicious delights outside. Portage Park’s lakes offer all sorts of top-notch picnic areas for you to pack up some portable delicacies, or you could just do some cheese and crackers as you enjoy the view. If you’re with that special someone, a picnic on the beach should be suitably romantic.

Start paddling. For those in search of some exercise, load up your preferred vessel and find yourself a lake that has a public launch and get out and enjoy the scenery in all it’s glory.

Preparing for a Day on the Lake

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique depending on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, or if there are any activities planned. For your benefit, we’ve created a list that will give some ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!

Common lake items

If you’re going to be on, in, or near the water for the vast majority of the weekend, our list of provisions below is an excellent starting point when it comes to the necessities to have on hand.

  • Cooler, ice, beverages (always remember water!)
  • Beach blanket
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Plates, bowls, utensils, cups
  • Towels
  • Trash bags (one for trash, one for wet items)
  • Swimsuits
  • Portable stereo
  • Flip flops or water shoes

More lake gear

Take into consideration your planned activities at the lake and who will be joining you, the list of gear could make your day more enjoyable and adding to your checklist prior to leaving.

  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Safety gear like life jackets
  • Fishing poles
  • Paper towels and sanitizer
  • Wine key
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Bait
  • Diapers (if a baby’s on board)
  • Something to read
  • Tackle box and lures

Lake Safety Tips

Of course spending a weekend on your favorite body of water should be tons of fun, everyone’s safety needs to remain top of mind. If you’re going to be out on the water here are some general safety tips to keep in mind.

  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
  • Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while boating
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Keep children within arm’s reach at all times while swimming in deep water

More Ideas for Lake Fun

Few people get a chance to make their way to the amazing lakes around Portage Park and might have a few questions on ways to maximize their fun. Certainly, each lake near Portage Park is going to possess unique qualities and trappings, but it’s worth noting a handful of items to look into when making plans that might help you end up with a winning itinerary.

  1. Make the most of unique assets in the area. When you have time for a longer getaway, look for local state parks and recreation areas that offer the option to stay near or even on the water for a reasonable price.
  2. Rent a boat. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing or tubing with the kids. Asking a local will typically help you locate options for renting the perfect boat.
  3. Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes beaches can get extremely crowded. If you want more space to spread out, research a variety of lakes and beaches to see if you can find one that’s less crowded to find one with a slower pace. To get in on the party, search out the biggest, most popular sandy party scene!