Elmhurst Lakes

Lakes Close to Elmhurst

Every once in a while you just need to pack up and find a spot near the water. A stay at a lake is perfect for people who love the outdoors too, because they offer opportunities to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

There are numerous great reasons for a getaway to a lake in Elmhurst this summer – the cool water for swimming, enjoyable summer activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming. You’ll find that some lakes have beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day. Scan the local listings below to see the options from small lakes with beaches to larger lakes for you and the family to enjoy.

Lakes Close to Elmhurst

Lake Activities

A day trip, or a more lengthy trip provides a nearly boundless list of activities for families, couples, or even those seeking some quality alone time.

A day, weekend, or a week on or in the water gives you a full range of activities from thrilling to chilling.

Have a picnic. The lakes near Elmhurst provide a wealth of excellent picnic areas where you can enjoy foods, or something as simple as crackers and cheese and a cold beverage while enjoying the scenery. If you’re with that special someone, this plan should put a smile on their face.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. If paddling is your thing, strap your favorite kayak or paddleboard to the top of your vehicle and find yourself a lake near Elmhurst with a public launch and get out and soak up the scenery in all it’s glory.

Get a little crazy with the water sports. If you’re able to get access to a ski boat, you might want to have some fun and make a day of kicking up a wake showing off your water sports talents? Enjoy a day of wakeboarding, skiing, or tubing as the lakes near Elmhurst offer you a number of choices.

Lake Checklist

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique based on the lake you’re heading to, when you go, what your goals are for the getaway. However, we’ve created a list for some ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!

The basics

If you’re going to be on, in, or near the water for most of the weekend, the list below is an excellent starting point when it comes to the necessities that you’ll be happy to have on hand.

  • Insect repellant
  • Swimsuits
  • Eye protection, a hat, or both
  • Towels
  • Bottle opener
  • Portable stereo
  • Beach blanket
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • Garbage bags

Specialty lake gear

The list of items below could be helpful for getaways to the lake depending on what you’ll be doing. You may want to double check for some of these prior to hitting the road.

  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Pool noodles, rafts, floats
  • Worms or other bait
  • Your tackle box
  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Legal flotation devices
  • Masks and snorkels
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Fishing poles
  • Wine key

Staying Safe on a Lake

Yes, being on the water can make for a memorable day, safety should be top of mind. Here are some general tips that can make sure that everyone remains safe while around the lake.

  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
  • Always wear sunblock
  • Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
  • Make sure no one swims alone
  • Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
  • Don’t mix alcohol with swimming

More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Elmhurst

Not everyone has had the opportunity to make their way to the amazing lakes around Elmhurst and might have a few questions regarding planning. Of course, each lake near Elmhurst will have unique qualities and surroundings, but it’s worth noting a handful of items to review while assembling your itinerary that might help put together a trip your whole family will remember.

  1. Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes the beaches near Elmhurst can get exceptionally crowded. If you want a little more privacy, research multiple lakes in the area to learn about how busy they are to find one with a slower pace. If you want to be where the party’s at, search out the busiest, most popular beach!
  2. Maximize unique assets in the area. If there’s time for a lengthier trip, look for local recreational areas, state parks, and campgrounds that offer the ability to stay near or even on the water for a reasonable price.
  3. No boat, no problem. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy fishing with family and friends or a wild day of wakeboarding. Using a search engine can typically allow you to locate several places that can hook you up with the right vessel.