Located in the suburbs northwest of downtown Chicago in the Ned Brown Forest Preserve, Busse Lake offers a great place to paddle and enjoy nature in the middle of a busy metropolitan area. The lake has multiple coves and channels but boats are only allowed on the main portion known as Busse Lake and South Pool. There are launch sites available on both sections of the lake. The shores are lined with wetlands and woodlands providing lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife and birdwatching. The lake only allows non-motorized boats and electric trolling motors making the waters quiet and calm for fishing and paddling. The forest preserve also offers picnic areas and lots of biking and hiking trails.