Nearing the Wisconsin border is a region known as the Chain O’Lakes in Illinois, which are widely considered to be some of the best lakes in Illinois. These chain lakes in Illinois are some of the most popular boating destinations in the United States. If you’re wondering how many lakes are in the chain of lakes, there are 15, all connected by the Fox River or other man-made channels. Over holiday weekends, you can expect over 100,000 visitors to flock to this area! Here’s a breakdown of all of the Chain O lakes in Illinois. Pick your favorite and plan a day on the water!

1. Grass Lake
Karen Hufford LeBuhn / Facebook
This lake is one of the largest chain lakes in IL, but it's also the most shallow; the average depth is just three feet. But that doesn't stop visitors from venturing into the middle of the lake to visit Blarney Island, a quintessential beach bar. Read up on the mystery that surrounds Grass Lake.
2. Spring Lake
Spring Lake Township, IL, USA
Spring Lake Marina/Facebook
This tiny lake in Illinois serves more as a means to get from Bluff Lake to Petite Lake, but that doesn't mean it isn't stunning. It's surrounded by greenery in the summer, and boasts one of the best marinas in the area, Spring Lake Marina. Check out the website for Spring Lake Marina to learn more about recreating here.
3. Lake Marie
Lake Marie, Antioch Township, IL 60002, USA
Kelly Drafke Radzevich/Facebook
One of the best lakes in Illinois, this one is very busy during the summer, so if you're hoping to get some fishing done, experts say to visit on a weekday. Expect to catch bluegill, crappie, and sometimes even walleye. Check out Chain O'Lakes State Park where Lake Marie runs through.
4. Nippersink Lake
Nippersink Lake, Illinois, USA
Robin C. Dunham/Facebook
Don't skip over Nippersink Lake as you're cruising through the chain lakes in IL. It's centrally located and absolutely beautiful, making it the perfect spot to stop and watch the sunset. Read up on the canoe trail connected to Nippersink Lake.
5. Bluff Lake
Steitz's / Facebook
If you're looking for a place to eat on this little lake off the larger Lake Marie, Steitz's Resort is the place to be. Their Friday Fish Fry cannot be beat. Learn more about beautiful Bluff Lake in Illinois and other scenic places in Illinois.
6. Fox Lake
Fox Lake, IL, USA
Chain O'Lakes Marina/Facebook
Tied for the largest lake in the system, Fox Lake is home base for many visitors to the region. Thanks to multiple marinas and great waterside spots like Captain's Quarters and Fairmont Shores, this chain lake in IL is always busy. Consider visiting this unique cafe in Illinois when you visit Fox Lake.
7. Channel Lake
Channel Lake, IL 60002, USA
ChannelLake/Wikimedia
Less than a mile from the Wisconsin border, this lake in Illinois has an area of 352 acres. When your stomach starts growling from a long day on the lake, visit Thirsty Turtle Brew and View Pub. You won't go home hungry. Get the details about boating on this lake and other Lake County lakes in Illinois.

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8. Dunns Lake
Dunns Lake, Antioch Township, IL, USA
Nicole Mateja/Facebook
Dunns Lake is a tiny offshoot of Nippersink Lake. If you're looking for a quiet day on the water, this is one of the best lakes in Illinois to visit. Learn about boating on Dunn Lake and others in the region.
9. Petite Lake
Petite Lake, Illinois, USA
Cypress Resort & Marine/Facebook
Though its name might make you believe Petite Lake is the smallest of the chain lakes in IL, that is far from the truth. It is a lively place with plenty of room for fun on the water. Consider staying at this resort in Illinois that is located on Petite Lake.
10. Lake Catherine
Bob's Marina Inc. / Facebook
Sitting right next to Channel Lake in Illinois is Lake Catherine, a smaller body of water very close to the Wisconsin border. Discover more about this lake and the other Chain O'Lakes in Illinois.
11. Brandenburg Lake
Brandenburg Lake, Grant Township, IL 60041, USA
Stephen/Airbnb
A tiny lake at just 75 acres, Brandenburg Lake is an incredible departure from the busier bodies of water of the chain lakes in IL. However, it is privately owned, so access is only available to residents. Get all the details about boating on Brandenburg Lake.
12. Pistakee Lake
Pistakee Lake, Illinois, USA
Carol Tobler/Facebook
Pistakee Lake shares the title of largest lake in the chain with Fox Lake, as both have an area of 1,700 acres. That leaves you plenty of room for boating, fishing, and water skiing on this lake in Illinois! Read up on what you can expect if you want to fish in Piskatee Lake.
13. Duck Lake
Duck Lake, Grant Township, IL 60041, USA
Timothy Tucker/Facebook
This lake is a popular spot for ice fishing in the winter, with perch among the many other types of fish available. Check out more details on what fishing opportunities Duck Lake has to offer.
14. Long Lake
Long Lake, IL, USA
Willoway Cottage on Long Lake/Facebook
Of course it's fun to get in the water, but one of the most beautiful ways to see Long Lake is by land. Visit Long Lake Park for a beautiful view of the shoreline of one of the best lakes in Illinois.
15. Redhead Lake
Angie Morris / Facebook
Located within Pyramid State Park, this small lake off the larger Pistakee Lake doesn't get talked about quite as much as some of the others, but it certainly is beautiful. Paddlers love to glide around this peaceful chain lake in IL. See what fish you can catch in Redhead Lake.

Have you ever been on any of these lakes in Illinois? Let us know in the comments!

And don’t stop here! Are you familiar with these gorgeous lakes in Illinois? If you’re interested in adding to your lake experience, many of the waterfronts also have campgrounds. Check out RVShare and rent the perfect RV for your lakeside adventure!

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Like most midwestern states, Illinois experiences a warm summer. Some summer expectations include:

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Getting the whole family out on a hike is always such a rewarding experience. And there just so happens to be a lot of options for family-friendly hikes in Illinois.

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