Lake Springfield

Lake Springfield offers convenient public access for kayakers, canoeists, and boaters via four free concrete boat ramps managed by City Water, Power and Light. Located in Chatham along the 3,866-acre lake's eastern shore, this access point provides straightforward launching for paddlers exploring the 57-mile shoreline. All watercraft must be registered and licensed according to City of Springfield and State of Illinois requirements before launching.

The lake itself, created in 1931 by damming Lick and Sugar creeks, features an average depth of 13 feet with maximum depths around 30 feet, making it suitable for various paddle craft. Note that certain areas are marked off-limits with "no boat" buoys, so be aware of posted restrictions. Lake Springfield is a major recreational hub drawing over 600,000 visitors annually and borders eight public parks along its shoreline, with additional amenities including the Henson Robinson Zoo and Lincoln Memorial Garden nearby. The marina offers trailer storage if needed, and additional boat docks are available at other locations around the lake.