Lake with heavenly refelection

Forbes Lake Vacation Rentals

Forbes Lake

Show on map
Forbes Lake
Show on map

Why Rent On Forbes Lake

Forbes Lake, a serene and vibrant oasis in Illinois, beckons adventurers, wellness seekers, and families alike. Surrounded by 2,000 wooded acres of oak and hickory forests, this 585-acre lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in water skiing, boating, and swimming at the sandy Rocky Point Beach. The lake’s excellent bass fishery, stocked annually with largemouth bass, makes it a paradise for sport fishermen.

Nearby, the Stephen A. Forbes State Park offers a plethora of activities: hike through nature trails, engage in a game of softball or volleyball at the Circle Drive Picnic Area, or explore the marina and its adjacent restaurant. For those seeking more solitude, the park features two campgrounds, including one for tent camping and another with electric sites for RVs and campers.

While the area is rich in natural beauty, it lacks nearby museums or historical landmarks, making it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves fully in the great outdoors. With its diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and herons, Forbes Lake is a quintessential escape for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun.

Best time to go
Visit Forbes Lake in late spring, from late May to early June, when the air hums with warmth and activity. This serene period, just before peak summer, offers pristine waters for fishing and kayaking, with fewer crowds to disturb the tranquil beauty.
Water Quality
Forbes Lake in Illinois features water that is deep blue in color, with crystal-clear clarity, providing a pristine and transparent appearance.
Surface area (mi)
1.49
Max depth (ft)
31.17
Elevation (ft)
511.81
Shoreline length (mi)
22.18

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
pencil

Information not accurate?

Help us improve by making a suggestion.

Marinas on Forbes Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Forbes Lake. It is permitted only at the 200-foot swim beach at Rocky Point, and there is no lifeguard on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.

  • Forbes Lake is a popular destination because of its diverse fish population. The lake is home to largemouth bass, bluegill, white crappie, and channel catfish, and is stocked annually with saugeye, channel catfish, and hybrid striped bass. It also has 18 miles of shoreline and a variety of aquatic environments.

  • In Forbes Lake, Illinois, the daily catch limits and minimum length requirements are as follows: Largemouth Bass have a 6 fish daily limit with a 14″ minimum length. Striped, White, or Hybrid Striped Bass have a 3 fish daily limit with a 17″ minimum length. Channel Catfish have a 6 fish daily limit with no length limit. Black, White, or Hybrid Crappie have a 10 fish daily limit for those 8″ or longer, with unlimited catch for those under 8″. Saugeye have a 6 fish daily limit with a 14″ minimum length.

  • The beach at Stephen A. Forbes State Park on Forbes Lake is best for families because it has a swimming beach on the NE side of the lake that is popular with families. However, note that there are no lifeguards or restrooms at this beach.

  • Forbes Lake is near the towns of Kinmundy, Iuka, and Farina in Illinois. These towns are located in Marion County, with Forbes Lake approximately 13 miles northeast of Salem, Illinois. The lake is accessible through these nearby communities.