Top 9 Lakes around St. Louis

The St. Louis area features a diverse range of lakes, including natural oxbow lakes like Horseshoe Lake, urban park lakes such as Post-Dispatch Lake and Jefferson Lake within Forest Park, and numerous stocked fishing lakes in conservation areas like the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. You can also find large artificial reservoirs further afield, such as Carlyle Lake.

Yes, many lakes around St. Louis are very family-friendly. Post-Dispatch Lake in Forest Park offers pedal boat, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals. Creve Coeur Lake Park is another excellent option with a recreational sand beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area provides a quieter, nature-focused experience with hiking trails and wildlife viewing.

For anglers, Jefferson Lake in Forest Park is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and carp. The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is a prime destination with over 30 lakes actively stocked with various species, including trout seasonally. Horseshoe Lake is also a popular fishing spot for catfish, bass, and pike.

Absolutely. Creve Coeur Lake is ideal for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and small sailboats, with rentals available. At Post-Dispatch Lake in Forest Park, you can rent rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. The lakes within the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area allow boating with electric motors, and Horseshoe Lake is also popular for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Many lakes offer scenic views and natural beauty. Creve Coeur Lake features the 'Dripping Springs' waterfall and a wildlife area. In Forest Park, the Emerson Grand Basin provides a beautiful backdrop with fountains and architectural surroundings. Horseshoe Lake offers a nice view from its boat launch area, and parts of it are managed for migratory shorebirds.

Yes, many lakes are surrounded by extensive trail networks. Creve Coeur Lake Park has a 3.8-mile asphalt trail for walking, running, and biking. Forest Park, home to Post-Dispatch Lake and Jefferson Lake, offers numerous trails perfect for running and walking. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around St. Louis or various road cycling routes and general cycling routes that often pass by or through these lake areas.

The lakes around St. Louis are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Summer is ideal for water sports and boating, though it can be hot. Winter provides a quieter experience, with opportunities for serene walks, especially if you enjoy bird watching.

The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is excellent for bird watching and wildlife viewing due to its numerous lakes and extensive natural habitat. Creve Coeur Lake also has a dedicated wildlife area on its south and west shores, offering opportunities to observe local fauna.

Most major lake parks, such as Creve Coeur Lake Park and Forest Park, offer ample parking. Forest Park is also easily accessible by metro, making it convenient for those using public transport. For specific details on parking and public transport for individual locations, it's always best to check local park websites.

For a longer day trip, Carlyle Lake in Illinois, about 60 miles east of St. Louis, is a large artificial reservoir offering extensive boating, fishing, and swimming. For a major recreation destination, the Lake of the Ozarks, approximately three hours away, provides a wide array of activities and accommodations for longer stays.

Forest Park, being an urban park, has several amenities including The Boathouse at Forest Park, which offers dining options. The park is also surrounded by various cafes and restaurants in the city. Creve Coeur Lake Park has picnic areas, and nearby Maryland Heights offers dining choices. For more remote locations like the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area, amenities are more limited, so it's advisable to bring your own provisions.