Lake Mattoon

Lake Mattoon is a 1,050-acre public access point located in Neoga, Cumberland County, offering a convenient launching facility for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 31 feet with an average depth of 11.4 feet, providing suitable conditions for various water activities. A public boat ramp, new parking lot, and boat slips are available on-site. Note that the City of Mattoon collects a boating access fee for use of this ramp (contact 217-895-2922 or 234-3611 for current rates).

Amenities at Lake Mattoon include a marina with limited boat rentals, bait and tackle shop, camping facilities, and nearby dining options at the Lake Mattoon Café and Lakefront Restaurant. Swimming, boating, and watersports are permitted, though users should be aware that activities occur "at your own risk." Nearby Lake Paradise is also accessible but operates as a no-wake zone with restrictions on skiing, swimming, and tubing. This makes Lake Mattoon the better choice for those seeking more active water recreation.