Lake with glowing sunset

Devils Kitchen Lake Vacation Rentals

Devils Kitchen Lake

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Devils Kitchen Lake
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Why Rent On Devils Kitchen Lake

Devil’s Kitchen Lake, situated in the heart of Southern Illinois, is a serene and expansive 810-acre reservoir created by the damming of Grassy Creek. Part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this lake boasts a maximum depth of 90 feet and a 24-mile shoreline, making it a paradise for anglers and nature enthusiasts. Stocked with rainbow and brown trout, as well as teeming with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, the lake offers ample fishing opportunities. Boating is also a popular activity, with a 10-horsepower limit ensuring a peaceful experience.

For those seeking adventure, kayaking and canoeing reveal the lake’s tranquil beauty and abundant wildlife. Camping sites are available, including a primitive campground with picnic areas, allowing families and wellness seekers to connect with nature. Nearby, the Southern Illinois Music Festival and the Sunset Concert Series provide cultural enrichment, while the Fall Farm Crawl offers a glimpse into local agriculture. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its recreational and cultural attractions, makes Devil’s Kitchen Lake an ideal destination for travelers of all interests.

Best time to go
Visit Devils Kitchen Lake in late spring, particularly May, when life awakens in vibrant hues. The air is filled with the melody of birds, and thermals beckon for exhilarating water sports. Fewer tourists create a tranquil escape, enhancing your fishing experience amidst emerald surrounds.
Water Quality
Devil's Kitchen Lake in Illinois features deep blue waters with crystal-clear clarity, allowing visibility down to depths of 10 to 12 feet. The lake's submerged timber and steep, wooded shorelines enhance its pristine and transparent appearance.
Surface area (mi)
2.05
Max depth (ft)
88.58
Elevation (ft)
508.53
Shoreline length (mi)
24

Popular activities

  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Devils Kitchen Lake. This is because there are standing trees and logs in the water that can be dangerous. Violators may face fines.

  • Devils Kitchen Lake is a popular destination because it offers diverse fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, and it also has largemouth bass, bluegill, and other fish species. Additionally, it has three boat-launching areas and a scenic 24-mile shoreline within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

  • The daily catch limit for largemouth bass in Devils Kitchen Lake, Illinois, is 6 per day with no length limit. For bluegill and Redear, the limit is 25 per day in aggregate, with an 8-inch length limit. These regulations help manage the fish population in the lake.

  • There is no public beach at Devils Kitchen Lake. Swimming is forbidden due to underwater stumps and logs that could be dangerous. You need to look elsewhere, such as the public beaches on Crab Orchard Lake or Little Grassy Lake, if you want to swim.

  • Devils Kitchen Lake is near the towns of Marion, Carbondale, and Makanda. The lake is located in Williamson County, with parts of it also near Goreville, Carterville, and Cambria. It is part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in southern Illinois.