A Big Lake with Endless Family Fun
Why Rent On Clinton Lake
Clinton Lake sprawls across 4,900 acres in central Illinois, and the Clinton Lake State Recreation Area wraps around it with enough activities to fill a week without repeating yourself. Families who rent a lakehouse or cabin here get immediate access to one of the state’s most versatile outdoor destinations, all without the limits of a hotel stay.
Lakehouses Sized for Your Whole Crew
Vacation rentals near Clinton Lake range from cozy two-bedroom retreats to large luxury lakehouses that sleep 12 or more guests comfortably. Full kitchens, hot tubs, private docks, and beautiful lake views are common features. Pet-friendly properties are available throughout the area, so no one has to stay behind.
Fishing, Boating, and a 1,000-Foot Sand Beach
Clinton Lake is famous for its crappie, catfish, walleye, and bass fishing. The 1,000-foot sand beach is ideal for young kids, and the motorboating and sailing on the open water satisfy the more adventurous members of your group. In winter, the lake transforms into a hub for ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling.
History and Scenery Just Down the Road
The Dewitt County Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s heritage, and Weldon Springs State Park is a short drive away with a natural spring, veteran’s memorial, and peaceful walking trails. The area around Clinton Lake is relaxing and rich with things to explore at your own pace.
A Smarter Way to Stay
When you book a lakeside rental at Clinton Lake, your family gets private space, a kitchen to cook in, and a porch to gather on at the end of each day. That kind of freedom and comfort is something no hotel can replicate. Pack the cooler, load up the car, and make it a trip worth remembering.
- Surface area (mi)
- 12.3
- Max depth (ft)
- 47.9
- Elevation (ft)
- 688.98
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 136.08
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Clinton Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are restrictions for swimming at Clinton Lake. Swimmers must stay within the buoyed areas, and there is no lifeguard on duty. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and no alcohol, glass, or sharp objects are allowed in the beach area.
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Clinton Lake is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational activities. It offers 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, a swim beach, and opportunities for fishing and water sports. The lake is also known for its wildlife viewing, including bald eagles and various other birds and animals.
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At Clinton Lake, Illinois, the daily harvest limits and size restrictions are as follows: Largemouth Bass have a 16-inch minimum length limit and a 3 per day harvest limit. Hybrid Striped Bass and White Bass have a 10 fish limit with no more than 3 over 17 inches. Crappie have a 15 fish daily limit with no more than 5 fish under 10 inches and 10 fish 10 inches or larger. Walleye must be at least 18 inches long with a 3 per day limit, and Channel and Blue Catfish have a 10 per day harvest limit.
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There are no lifeguards on the beaches at Clinton Lake. A sign at the beach warns of this, and visitors are advised to take necessary safety precautions.
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Towns near Clinton Lake include Lawrence, Lecompton, and Baldwin City. These towns are located in Douglas County, Kansas, with Lawrence being the largest nearby city. Clinton Lake is also close to other smaller towns like Eudora and Edgerton.
