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Access Site IL

Lake Jacksonville

Lake Jacksonville Big Sandy Creek

Source: illinois_natural_history_survey Updated 1 year ago

City: Jacksonville, IL
County: Morgan County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 39.67747300, -90.19150800
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Lake Jacksonville offers a convenient double boat ramp on the north shore for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters accessing this 500-acre man-made lake in Morgan County. The facility includes an ADA-accessible floating dock, making it accessible for paddlers and boaters of varying abilities. The lake's modest depth of 12.5 feet and 18.5 miles of shoreline provide good exploring opportunities for recreational paddlers.

The lake maintains abundant aquatic vegetation beds and is stocked with bass, bluegill, red-ear sunfish, and channel catfish, making it popular for both paddling and fishing. Located three miles south of Jacksonville off Route 267, the ramp is a straightforward access point for day trips. Note that 2025 seasonal boating permits must be purchased at the concession building starting April 1, 2025, with daily passes available for $11 for those not purchasing a seasonal permit. The calm, shallow waters make this a suitable destination for beginner to intermediate paddlers and families.