Top 13 Lakes around Arlington Heights

The main recreational lakes in the area are Lake Arlington, located within Arlington Heights, and Busse Lake (part of Ned Brown Forest Preserve), which is easily accessible from Arlington Heights. Both offer diverse activities and natural beauty.

Lake Arlington offers a variety of activities including walking, jogging, and biking on its 2-mile paved path. You can also rent sailboats, paddle boats, kayaks, and pontoon pedal boats. Fishing is popular, with designated spots and a pier, and the lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish. It also features playgrounds and picnic areas.

Busse Lake, within the 3,700-acre Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods), is excellent for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. You can rent rowboats, canoes, and kayaks, or bring your own (non-motorized). The preserve boasts over 11 miles of paved and natural trails for hiking, running, and biking, and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elk.

Yes, Lake Arlington is very family-friendly, featuring two playgrounds suitable for various ages and numerous picnic tables and shelters. Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) also offers extensive picnic areas and trails suitable for families.

Both Lake Arlington and Busse Lake offer excellent trails. Lake Arlington has a 2-mile paved path perfect for walking and biking. Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods), surrounding Busse Lake, features nearly 13 miles of paved and natural surface trails. For more options, explore easy hikes or running trails in the area.

The Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species, making it a prime birdwatching spot. It's also home to a herd of elk. The preserve features extensive waterways and ancient trees, offering a rich natural experience.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lake Arlington has designated fishing spots and a pier, with catch-and-release encouraged. Busse Lake is also a popular fishing spot, where anglers can find walleye, crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish. An Illinois fishing license is required for those over 16.

While rowboats, canoes, and kayaks are available for rent at Busse Lake, visitors can also bring their own boats (excluding motors and sailboards). It's advisable to check with the Ned Brown Forest Preserve for any specific permit requirements for personal boats.

The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer the best conditions for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and picnicking. Fall provides beautiful foliage, while spring and summer are ideal for water sports and enjoying the playgrounds. Winter can be scenic for walks, though some facilities may be seasonal.

Beyond Lake Arlington and Busse Lake, you can explore Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, which offers flat, crushed gravel trails for walking and birdwatching. Lake Terramere Park also features a retention pond where shore fishing is permitted, along with a path and picnic tables.

The paved path encircling Lake Arlington is approximately 2 miles long. Walking at a moderate pace, it typically takes about 30-45 minutes to complete a full loop.

Many trails in the forest preserves, including those around Busse Lake, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions. The extensive trail network at Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is a popular choice for dog walkers.

Lake Arlington is well-equipped with amenities including two playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor exercise area, a sensory garden, and a concession stand. There are also various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options available in the surrounding Arlington Heights area.