Lake on the west coast

Candlewick Lake Vacation Rentals

Dip into the cool water with your family at Candlewick Lake then spend the afternoon at the remarkable Volo Auto Museum.

A Gated Lake Community with Serious Amenities

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Why Rent On Candlewick Lake

Candlewick Lake is a 210-acre manmade lake inside a private gated community in northern Illinois, offering the kind of secure, relaxed atmosphere that families with young kids genuinely appreciate. The lake holds muskie, northern pike, catfish, and bass, and the surrounding community amenities make this an unusually well-equipped destination for a lakeside family vacation.

Lakehouses with Everything You Need

Vacation rentals at Candlewick Lake offer full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and comfortable outdoor spaces within a peaceful, gated setting. Many pet-friendly properties are available for families who travel with dogs. The community’s nine-hole golf course and fitness center give adults additional options when the kids are busy at the beach or the playground.

Boating, Skiing, and Beach Days

The lake is open for boating, water skiing, and fishing, and the public beach and party deck are ideal for a full day of swimming and sunbathing. Kayaks, paddle boats, and power boats can be rented directly on site. Summer food trucks, a 4th of July parade and fireworks, and Concert in the Park events give the season a genuine community feel that kids and adults both love.

Day Trips to Lake Geneva and Volo Auto Museum

The Volo Auto Museum nearby is a crowd-pleaser for car-loving families and a genuinely impressive collection worth a few hours. The Lake Geneva area across the Wisconsin border offers ghost walks, scavenger hunts, and a lively waterfront scene for a great day trip. The charming town of Poplar Grove is just down the road for local dining and exploration.

Why This Lake Works So Well for Families

The gated setting, the lake, the golf, the beach, and the events calendar add up to a vacation rental experience that is hard to find anywhere else in northern Illinois. Your family gets the safety and amenities of a resort community with the privacy and space of a real home. That combination makes Candlewick Lake a genuinely smart choice.

Best time to go
Visit Candlewick Lake in early autumn, when the leaves blaze with color and the air is crisp. Enjoy tranquil fishing on tranquil waters, brilliant sunsets, and fewer tourists. Don’t miss the annual Harvest Festival, where local artisans showcase their crafts amidst the stunning fall foliage.
Water Quality
Candlewick Lake's water exhibits a deep blue hue, complemented by crystal-clear clarity, offering an inviting environment for various water activities.
Surface area (mi)
0.53
Elevation (ft)
895.67
Shoreline length (mi)
7.23

Popular activities

  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing.
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Marinas on Candlewick Lake

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Candlewick Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are specific rules for swimming in Candlewick Lake. Swimming is only permitted in Association-designated swimming areas marked by buoys, and swimmers must comply with these designated areas to avoid fines. Swimmers with open cuts or abrasions are not allowed in the water.

  • Candlewick Lake is a popular destination because of its resort-style living and numerous amenities. It offers a lake and beach, a pool, a recreation center, walking trails, parks, a dog park, a gym, and a golf course, making it an attractive place for various activities and family living.

  • Yes, you need a Candlewick Lake membership to fish in the lake. Your Candlewick Lake Member ID serves as your fishing permit. A state fishing license is also required for all persons age 16 and over.

  • There is no public beach at Candlewick Lake. The beach is private and has private access, monitored by the Illinois Department of Public Health. It is only accessible to residents and verified guests.

  • Towns near Candlewick Lake include Timberlane, Poplar Grove, and Caledonia. These towns are all located in Boone County, Illinois, and are part of the surrounding area of Candlewick Lake. They are nearby communities with similar rural settings.