Best lakes around Lindenhurst offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area features various bodies of water, including those within forest preserves and reclaimed quarries, providing settings for outdoor activities. These lakes contribute to the region's natural beauty and support local ecosystems. Visitors can find a range of experiences, from tranquil walks to observing local wildlife.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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The Lake at Independence Grove is a must-visit stop along the Des Plaines River Trail, offering cyclists a scenic and easy ride through a 115-acre retreat. Once a gravel quarry, this reclaimed space now features smooth paths, gentle terrain, and beautiful lake views—perfect for beginners and family-friendly outings. Visit in the spring, and you might spot colorful wildflowers adding even more charm to this peaceful ride.
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The Lake at Independence Grove, a highlight along the Des Plaines River Trail, offers hikers a scenic 115-acre retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry. If you're visiting in the spring, you may be able to spot colorful warblers along the surrounding woodlands!
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Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve encompasses wetlands, groves of large oaks, and open prairies teeming with wildflowers and native grasses. It features smooth gravel trails, bridges, and boardwalks, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy birdwatching along the way.
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You can follow the trail for 56 miles along the Des Plaines River with gorgeous views of local preserves, watersheds, forests, and marshes. The trail is wide packed gravel and shared with hikers and the occasional horseback rider. Here your pass through the Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve which has its own scenic trail network.
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Slightly bumpy ride on paved trials and a short ride on RTS 60 and 120.
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A 1,200 acre prairie preserve in Grayslake, Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve is the epitome of a lush landscape. With diverse wildlife and terrain, you'll have no issue finding a moment of peace and adventure in Lake County's local wilderness.
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Van Patten Woods was Lake County’s first forest preserve, created in 1961 with a 162-acre purchase. In the 1970s the abandoned gravel pit that is now Sterling Lake was acquired. Mined from the 1930s through the mid-1970s, this area was deeply scarred. Major restoration that took place between 1989 and 1993 resulted in the safe and clean preserve we enjoy today. The preserve is named in honor of David Van Patten, President of the Lake County Forest Preserves in 1960. The former gravel pit was once known as Vulcan Lake. Following a "name-the-lake" contest, it was renamed Sterling Lake in honor of Sterling Township, the previous name for Newport Township. https://www.lcfpd.org/van-patten-woods/
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A very nice pond where you can observe dragonflies and water birds.
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The lakes around Lindenhurst offer a diverse range of natural landscapes. You'll find areas like Independence Grove Lake, which is a scenic retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry, featuring smooth paths and gentle terrain. Other locations, such as the Pond in Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve, are nestled within forest preserves, offering extensive trail networks. You can also explore wetlands, groves of large oaks, and open prairies at places like Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve.
Yes, several lakes around Lindenhurst are ideal for families. Independence Grove Lake is known for its smooth paths and gentle terrain, making it perfect for family outings. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve also offers family-friendly trails, bridges, and boardwalks where children can enjoy wildlife and birdwatching. In Lindenhurst, NY, Fellers Pond borders Village Park, which features an ADA-compliant playground and sports fields.
You have several options for hiking and walking. The Pond in Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve is part of a 56-mile trail along the Des Plaines River, offering wide, packed gravel paths. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve features smooth gravel trails, bridges, and boardwalks. For longer routes, the Argyle Lake to Belmont Lake trail in New York is a 7.7-mile path, and the Massapequa Reservoir offers an easy 4.0-mile loop trail. You can find more hiking options in the Lakes around Lindenhurst guide.
The lakes and preserves around Lindenhurst are excellent for wildlife observation. At Independence Grove Lake, you can spot dragonflies and various water birds, and in spring, colorful warblers. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve is particularly noted for its diverse wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, with teeming wildflowers and native grasses. Hempstead Lake in New York is also a good spot for observing various fish species.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. Hempstead Lake in Lindenhurst, NY, is a prime location for fishing, with species like Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Carp, and Goldfish. Massapequa Lake and its connected Reservoir also report frequent catches of Largemouth Bass. In Lindenhurst, IL, the Beck Basin offers fishing access.
At Hempstead Lake in Lindenhurst, NY, canoes, car-top boats, and electric trolling motors are permitted. However, you will need a boat permit from the park to use them. Belmont Lake also offers opportunities for boating.
There are several cycling routes that pass by or around the lakes. The Lake at Independence Grove is a scenic stop along the Des Plaines River Trail, offering smooth paths for cyclists. The Nippersink Trail is largely a gravel road that passes many lakes and water points. For more detailed cycling routes, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Lindenhurst or Gravel biking around Lindenhurst guides.
Fellers Pond, bordering Village Park in Lindenhurst, NY, is part of a community area that features an ADA-compliant playground. While specific details on wheelchair accessibility for all lake trails are not available, Independence Grove Lake offers smooth paths and gentle terrain, which can be more accommodating. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve also features smooth gravel trails and boardwalks.
Many of the lakes and preserves have interesting histories. For example, Independence Grove Lake was once a gravel quarry that has been reclaimed and transformed into a natural retreat. Similarly, Sterling Lake within Van Patten Woods was an abandoned gravel pit that underwent major restoration between 1989 and 1993 to become the clean preserve it is today. Belmont Lake State Park in New York was established in 1926.
Visitors frequently appreciate the peaceful settings and diverse recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the scenic views, the chance to observe local wildlife, and the well-maintained trails for walking and cycling. The blend of natural beauty with accessible amenities, such as those found at Independence Grove Lake and Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve, makes these areas popular for both quiet contemplation and active outings.
While many areas are dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific park regulations. For instance, at Hempstead Lake in Lindenhurst, NY, a boat permit from the park is required for canoes, car-top boats, and electric trolling motors. Always ensure dogs are leashed and follow local signage regarding pet waste and restricted areas.
While not extensively detailed, the Lakes Commission in Lindenhurst, IL, oversees several village lakes including Lake Linden, Lake Potomac, Springledge Lake, and Waterford Lake, which are actively protected and restored. These might offer a quieter experience compared to larger, more well-known parks. The Nippersink Trail also passes many smaller lakes and water points with excellent water quality, offering a chance to discover less-trafficked spots.


Still not found your perfect lake around Lindenhurst? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.