It is hard to find a better summer activity than kicking back on a boat in the middle of a lake. Picture yourself surrounded by your closest friends, a beverage in hand, with the sun shining down as you rock back and forth in the beautiful waters. There are tons of popular lake destinations throughout the great state of Illinois, but sometimes it’s the smaller lakes that can offer the calm visit you might be after. That’s where Cedar Lake in southern Illinois is the perfect fit.
The 1,750-acre reservoir was created in 1974 thanks to the damming of a tributary of the Big Muddy River. The original construction of the lake was for the purpose of supplying water to the residents of nearby Carbondale, Illinois.
jeremiah.jahn/wikipedia
Carbondale, with a population just north of 25,000, is home to the main campus of Southern Illinois University. Founded in 1853, the town is located in Jackson County in southern Illinois.
Gary Todd/Flickr
While Cedar Lake was created to provide tap water to nearby residents, locals quickly found that it’s a great place to take in the views on a hike or cool off with a quick dip. The lake is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 51.
Ken Mulligan/AllTrails
The calm waters also offer the perfect opportunity for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. In fact, those looking to catch some fish can expect to come across bass, catfish, and bluegill.
City of Carbondale Government/Facebook
If you’re going to make the trek to Carbondale, and you’re looking for lunch or dinner surrounding your visit, you can’t go wrong at Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza. Located at 218 W. Freeman Street, it’s consistently ranked as one of the best pizza spots in the state.
Brian J/TripAdvisor Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza, 218 W Freeman St, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
jeremiah.jahn/wikipedia
Gary Todd/Flickr
Ken Mulligan/AllTrails
City of Carbondale Government/Facebook
Brian J/TripAdvisor
Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza, 218 W Freeman St, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
Have you had the pleasure of visiting Cedar Lake in southern Illinois? Tell us all about it in the comments!
Looking for more beautiful lakes in the Land of Lincoln? This crystal-clear lake is a real-life oasis!
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Address: Carbondale, IL, USA
