The Most Remote Lake In Illinois Is Also The Most Peaceful

It is hard to find a better summer activity than kicking back on a boat in the middle of one of the southern Illinois lakes. Picture yourself surrounded by your closest friends, a beverage in hand, with the sun shining down as you rock back and forth in the beautiful waters of remote lakes in Illinois. There are tons of popular lake destinations throughout the great state of Illinois, but sometimes it's the smaller lakes in southern Illinois that can offer the calm visit you might be after. That's where Cedar Lake in southern Illinois is the perfect fit, and it's one of the best lakes in Illinois.

The 1,750-acre reservoir was created in 1974 thanks to the damming of a tributary of the Big Muddy River. The original construction of the lake was for the purpose of supplying water to the residents of nearby Carbondale, Illinois.

Carbondale, with a population just north of 25,000, is home to the main campus of Southern Illinois University. Founded in 1853, the town is located in Jackson County in southern Illinois.

While Cedar Lake was created to provide tap water to nearby residents, locals quickly found that it's a great place to take in the views on a hike or cool off with a quick dip. The lake is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 51.

The calm waters also offer the perfect opportunity for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. In fact, those looking to catch some fish can expect to come across bass, catfish, and bluegill.

If you're going to make the trek to Carbondale, and you're looking for lunch or dinner surrounding your visit, you can't go wrong at Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza. Located at 218 W. Freeman Street, it's consistently ranked as one of the best pizza spots in the state.

Plan a visit to this idyllic lake and spend a day paddling around on a lazy afternoon.

Get an aerial view of this idyllic lake:

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Cedar Lake in southern Illinois? Do you think it's one of the best lakes in Illinois? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Looking for more beautiful lakes in southern Illinois? Get your kayak ready because this crystal-clear lake is a real-life oasis:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/three-oaks-clearest-water-il/