Best lakes around Elmhurst include a variety of aquatic features, from lagoons to reservoirs and ponds, many integrated within local forest preserves. While Elmhurst itself features a notable lagoon, the surrounding area offers additional lakes for recreation. These locations provide opportunities for activities such as fishing, walking, and wildlife observation. The region's natural landscape is characterized by its accessible green spaces and interconnected water trails.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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This small lake has a path encircling it and is easily accessed via Fullerton Avenue. It connected to other lakes and nature preserves via the Salt Creek Greenway.
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The Spring Creek Reservoir Forest Preserve is a 90-acre park that is popular for wildlife viewing, picnicking and fishing. There is a reservoir in the center of the park and a trail that circles it.
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Green Lake is a beautiful lake in Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve. There is a trail that runs along the perimeter of the water, so you get great views of the lake.
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North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a charming small island nestled in the midst of Salt Creek. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with available picnic shelters, offering a perfect setting to relax, take in the views, and even set up your fishing pole.
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Prince Pond is the center of Prince Park in the middle of Downtown Downers Grove. This is a peaceful spot in an urban setting, and a great place to stop as you ride around the area.
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North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a charming small island nestled in the midst of Salt Creek. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with available picnic shelters, offering a perfect setting to relax, take in the views, and even set up your fishing pole.
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An oxbow of the Des Plaines River helped to create the flood-prone Thatcher Glen Pond. This small fishing reservoir has a forest path that passes along its eastern bank.
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North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a charming small island nestled in the midst of Salt Creek. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with available picnic shelters, offering a perfect setting to relax, take in the views, and even set up your fishing pole.
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The lakes and lagoons near Elmhurst offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy fishing at many spots, including North Island, Spring Creek Reservoir, and Eldridge Park Lagoon. Walking and picnicking are popular at locations like Eldridge Park Lagoon and Prince Pond. During winter, Eldridge Park Lagoon is also a popular spot for ice skating.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Eldridge Park Lagoon in Elmhurst is very family-friendly, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and two playgrounds. Spring Creek Reservoir is another excellent choice with opportunities for wildlife viewing and picnicking. Many lakes also offer easy fishing for all skill levels.
Fishing is a popular activity at many lakes in the area. Eldridge Park Lagoon is regularly stocked with largemouth bass and bluegill. Other good fishing spots include Thatcher Glen Pond, Whalon Lake (where electric trolling motors are permitted), Horsetail Lake, and Lake Foxcroft Park. Maple Lake, Mallard Lake, Opeaka Lake, and Marquette Park Lagoon are also known for various fish species.
Yes, you can enjoy boating at some locations. Skokie Lagoons offers extensive opportunities for non-motorized boating. Whalon Lake permits boating with electric trolling motors. Eldridge Park Lagoon also provides an ADA-accessible canoe launch, connecting to the Salt Creek Water Trail.
For nature observation, Spring Creek Reservoir is known for wildlife viewing. Skokie Lagoons is a vast nature preserve offering excellent birding prospects due to its diverse natural setting and interconnected lagoons.
Absolutely. Spring Creek Reservoir has a trail circling it. Eldridge Park Lagoon features walking paths, and Green Lake has a trail running along its perimeter, offering great views. Lake Foxcroft Park also provides well-maintained walking trails. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Elmhurst guide.
Yes, the region offers several cycling opportunities. Green Lake is connected to other lakes and nature preserves via the Salt Creek Greenway, which is suitable for cycling. For more cycling routes, including those around Eldridge Lagoon, check out the Cycling around Elmhurst guide.
North Island, nestled in Salt Creek within Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, is appreciated for its charming, picturesque surroundings. It offers picnic shelters and is a great spot for relaxing and fishing.
Skokie Lagoons, located a short drive from Elmhurst, is a large nature preserve consisting of seven interconnected lagoons covering 190 acres. It's unique for its vast natural setting, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, and excellent birdwatching.
Lake Foxcroft Park is often described as a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. It features a scenic lake surrounded by a well-maintained park with walking trails and picnic areas, providing a relaxing day out.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, with different activities available seasonally. Spring and fall are ideal for walking, hiking, and nature observation due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is perfect for picnicking, fishing, and boating. In winter, Eldridge Park Lagoon becomes a popular spot for ice skating.
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the variety of recreational opportunities. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails, the chance to observe wildlife, and the excellent fishing prospects. The convenience of having accessible green spaces, like Eldridge Park Lagoon within Elmhurst, is also highly valued.


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