This large reservoir provides lots of dramatic scenery and solitude with the many side channels and coves formed by rocky bluffs and cliffs. The area is popular for all types of boating. Paddlers can enjoy viewing lots of interesting rock formations and abundant wildlife along the shores of the lake. The lake is also popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicing. The lake is open for non-motorized boats and only allows motor boats of 10 horsepower or less for calmer waters.

This lake is located within just minutes of the capital city of Springfield and provides lots of excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation including canoeing and kayaking along miles of tree-lined shores. The lake has long narrow channels with side coves that can provide calm waters and solitude while on the lake. This trip utilizes the boat ramp located on the southwest side of the lake that is less-used and more remote. The lake is part of a state park that also offers camping, picnicing, fishing, and hiking and equestrian trails.

This 4200-acre lake is located southeast of the city of Springfield and is surrounded by residential development, parks, industrial areas, and offers miles of scenic shoreline for paddling. There are public boat launches located around the lake but the lake does require personal watercraft to be registered with the State of Illinois and the City of Springfield to launch. There are also canoe and kayak rentals available at the lake marina. There are restricted areas on the lake that are marked by buoys so pay attention and do not enter these areas.

This paddling trip starts on the large 4200-acre Springfield Lake and travels south down Sugar Creek. This narrow corridor of water provides lots of natural scenery and opportunity to view wildlife in a suburban area. There are public boat launches located around the lake but the lake does require personal watercraft to be registered with the State of Illinois and the City of Springfield to launch. There are also canoe and kayak rentals available at the lake marina. There are restricted areas on the lake that are marked by buoys so pay attention and do not enter these areas.

This lake is located within just minutes of the capital city of Springfield and provides lots of excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation including canoeing and kayaking along miles of tree-lined shores home to abundant wildlife. The lake has long narrow channels with side coves that can provide calm waters and solitude while on the lake. This trip utilizes the east boat ramp located on the east side of the lake at the state park. The lake also offers camping, picnicing, fishing, and hiking and equestrian trails.

This city-owned lake in the city of Litchfield offers miles of scenic shoreline for paddling and wildlife viewing. The lake is situated next to the the Shoal Creek Nature Preserve on one side which offers wildlife viewing and hiking. The lake also offers boat launching facilities, camping, picnicing, and good fishing. There are no horsepower restrictions on the lake and it is a popular spot for motorboats so be cautious and watch out for others on the lake. Daily or yearly permits are needed to access the lake and can be obtained at the marina.

Norfolk Lake is long, skinny and has over 550 miles of shoreline. It spreads over both Missouri and Arkansas. This lake is known for its clear water which makes it very popular for scuba diving. North Fork River, Bridges and Lick Creek all flow in from the north into the lake.There are three boat launches on the Missouri side of the lake. Other popular water activities include fishing, boating, sailing, water skiing, and swimming.

Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in all of Illinois and offers abundant recreational opportunities including kayaking and canoeing. The lake offers multiple recreation sites with launching amenities providing paddlers with the option of exploring different areas of the lake. The lake also provides paddlers with lots of opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The lake is popular for fishing, sailing, and motorboats so watch out for others on the lake, especially if crossing open waters.

Stockton Lake is a 24,900-acre reservoir. The clear waters are also popular for patrons to also ski, sail, scuba dive, swim, and fish. There is a water trail available for kayaks and canoes. Along the mapped trail, paddlers will see limestone bluffs and be able to explore the quiet coves. Wildlife sightings are common and include bald eagles and beavers. Fishermen will find bass, crappie, walleye, catfish and bluegill here. There are green fish habitat signs that indicate underwater fish structures for excellent fishing opportunities.

This lake is located in the tree covered, rolling hills of the Ozarks. The lake is 7,820 acres and part of a series of lakes in the Osage River Basin. The lakes name is French and means, “apple of the earth.” There are four paved boat ramps available in Pomme de Terre State Park. There are 650 campsites along the lake. It is also popular for fishing, water skiing, and swimming. There are also several hiking trails in the area. This lake is famous nationwide for its Muskellunge. Fishermen will also find bass, walleye, catfish, and crappie here.