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East Fork Lake, a sprawling 934-acre expanse in Illinois, beckons with its serene tree-lined banks and picturesque residential areas. This natural haven is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers alike. The lake is home to a diverse array of fish, including bass, walleye, and crappie, making it a hotspot for sport fishermen. Water sports such as water skiing, tubing, and sailing are also popular, with public access docks available near the campground area.
For those seeking leisurely activities, three city-owned parks surround the lake, offering picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds. Rotary Park stands out with its disc golf course, fitness path, and covered picnic shelters, while Miller’s Grove Park features covered shelters and playground equipment. The undeveloped shoreline is perfect for birdwatching and wildlife observation. nearby, the city of Olney offers additional attractions, though there are no nearby museums or historical landmarks of note. However, the tranquil environment and myriad outdoor activities make East Fork Lake an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy active pursuits.
- Surface area (mi)
- 2.36
- Max depth (ft)
- 40.03
- Elevation (ft)
- 485.56
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 25
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what East Fork Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You can swim in East Fork Lake, but only in designated areas and when there are no health advisories. The lake is sometimes closed to swimming due to high bacteria levels or harmful algal blooms, so it’s important to check current advisory status before swimming.
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East Fork Lake is a popular destination because it offers unlimited horsepower boating. The lake also provides opportunities for paddling, fishing, and swimming, and its 2,160 acres of water make it an ideal spot for various water sports. Additionally, the lake is part of a large state park with numerous recreational and natural history activities.
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The daily catch limits and minimum length requirements for East Fork Lake are as follows: Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass have a 3 fish daily limit with a 15-inch minimum length. Bluegill and Redear Sunfish have a 25 fish daily limit. Channel Catfish have a 6 fish daily limit. The lake enforces a two-pole and line fishing only regulation.
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Yes, there is a public beach at East Fork Lake. The beach is 1,200 feet long and includes changing booths, showers, and restrooms. Swimming is permitted in designated areas during daylight hours.
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Towns near East Fork Lake include Bethel, Amelia, and Williamsburg. These towns are located within a few miles of the park, with Bethel being the closest. They offer various local attractions and services.
