Small Lake with Swimming Dock

Governor Bond Lake Vacation Rentals

Boat the clear blue water with your family at Governor Bond Lake near the welcoming town of Greenville, Illinois.

A Lake Worth Planning Around

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Governor Bond Lake

Why Rent On Governor Bond Lake

Governor Bond Lake, a beautiful 775-acre reservoir just outside Greenville, Illinois, is an easy one-hour drive from St. Louis. Families who book a waterfront vacation rental here get something no hotel can match: a private dock, a full kitchen, and lake views from the moment they wake up.

Space That Works for Families

Lakehouses and cabins around Governor Bond Lake are built for groups. Many rentals sleep 8 to 14 guests, with multiple bedrooms and relaxing outdoor spaces where you can unwind after a day on the water. Pet-friendly options are available, so the dog does not have to stay home.

Great Fishing and Water Fun

The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and hybrid striped bass, making it a favorite for anglers of all ages. Boating, jet skiing, and wave running are all popular here. The marina at the southwest end of the lake provides boat rentals and essential supplies so you can get on the water fast.

A Quiet, Rural Setting

The shoreline here is mostly privately owned, lined with family farms and open countryside. That peaceful atmosphere is part of the appeal. Families can slow down, disconnect from screens, and enjoy the kind of quiet that only a lakeside property can deliver.

Close to the City, Far from the Crowds

St. Louis is just an hour away, which means you can spend a day at the Gateway Arch or the Missouri History Museum and still be back at your cozy lakehouse in time for dinner. Governor Bond Lake gives you the best of both worlds.

Best time to go
Visit Governor Bond Lake in late spring, from late May to early June. As wildflowers bloom and temperatures warm, enjoy tranquil fishing or serene kayaking amidst stunning natural beauty. Linger for the annual boat regatta, where vibrant colors blend with the azure waters.
Water Quality
Governor Bond Lake's water exhibits a deep blue hue, reflecting its pristine and transparent clarity. The lake's clear waters provide excellent visibility, enhancing its appeal for recreational activities.
Surface area (mi)
1.95
Max depth (ft)
25
Elevation (ft)
524.93
Shoreline length (mi)
24

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Governor Bond Lake

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Governor Bond 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 Governor Bond Lake. General swimming is prohibited, and the lake is instead used for activities like fishing, boating, and camping.

  • Governor Bond Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of recreational activities. You can use boats, jet skis, wave runners, and water skis on its 775 acres of water. The lake also provides good fishing spots for largemouth bass, bluegill, and other fish species, and there is a marina and camping facilities nearby.

  • The daily harvest limits for Governor Bond Lake in Illinois are as follows: Large or Smallmouth Bass have a 3 fish daily limit with a 15-inch minimum length limit. Walleye, Sauger, or Hybrid Walleye have an 18-inch minimum length limit but no specified daily limit here. White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie have a 15 fish daily limit, and Channel Catfish have a 6 fish daily limit.

  • There is a private beach at Governor Bond Lake, specifically at Durley Camp, which has private ownership and private access. This beach is monitored by the Illinois Department of Public Health but is not open to the general public.

  • The towns near Governor Bond Lake include Greenville, Smithboro, and Mulberry Grove. These towns are located in Bond County, Illinois, with Greenville being the closest and the city that owns the lake. They offer various amenities and services for visitors and residents.