Lake Glendale, Grantsburg, IL

For those residing in Illinois and seeking an idyllic escape into nature, Lake Glendale Recreation Area stands as a true gem within the sprawling Shawnee National Forest. This cherished destination offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, from serene lakeside relaxation to invigorating adventures on land and water. It's a place where the beauty of Southern Illinois truly shines, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable family vacations, peaceful solo retreats, or fun-filled outings with friends.

Lake Glendale is highly regarded for its natural beauty, featuring a picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests and well-maintained trails. Visitors frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere, the clarity of the water, and the overall cleanliness of the area. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen kayaker, a dedicated hiker, or simply someone looking to unwind amidst stunning scenery, Lake Glendale provides a welcoming and fulfilling experience. It’s a testament to the diverse and accessible outdoor recreation opportunities available right here in Illinois.

This article will guide you through the various aspects that make Lake Glendale Recreation Area a top choice for local Illinois users, covering its prime location, the array of services and facilities available, its standout features, and why it's an ideal spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Lake Glendale Recreation Area is situated at Beach, Grantsburg, IL 62943, USA, placing it firmly within the breathtaking Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. Its location is a significant draw, offering a feeling of being deeply immersed in nature while remaining relatively accessible for residents across the state. The recreation area is well-marked and can be reached via paved roads, making the journey smooth for all types of vehicles.

The park's central position within the Shawnee National Forest means it serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region, with other popular attractions like Dixon Springs State Park and Garden of the Gods just a short drive away. While Lake Glendale offers a sense of seclusion and peace, its accessibility ensures that a refreshing natural escape is always within reach for Illinois residents. Campers and day-trippers will find the drive scenic and straightforward, preparing them for the serene beauty that awaits.

Services Offered

Camping Facilities: Lake Glendale Recreation Area features Oak Point Campground, which offers both electric/water sites (34 sites) and non-electric/primitive sites (25 sites). Most sites can accommodate trailers up to 40 feet.
Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides well-maintained restroom facilities and hot showers, enhancing comfort for campers.
Potable Water: Accessible water spigots are available throughout the campground for drinking water.
Sanitary Dumping Station: An on-site dump station is available for RVs and trailers, ensuring convenience for waste disposal.
Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic spots are scattered around the lake, complete with pavilions and grills, ideal for day use and group gatherings.
Swimming Beach Concessions: During the operational season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), a concessions stand is available at the swimming beach, offering snacks and drinks.
Boat Ramp: A public boat ramp is provided at Cardinal Bay Access, facilitating easy launching of watercraft.
First-Come, First-Served Camping: Camping at Lake Glendale's Oak Point Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

Features / Highlights

Beautiful 80-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the recreation area, Lake Glendale offers calm waters perfect for a variety of activities.
Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach is open seasonally (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend), providing a refreshing spot for a dip. Lifeguards are not typically on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The lake is stocked with various fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers. There is a 2-pole and line limit, and specific size and daily limits for bass and catfish apply (e.g., 15” minimum for bass, 6 daily limit for catfish).
Non-Motorized and Electric Motor Boating: The calm waters are ideal for small boats, kayaking, and canoeing. Only electric motors are permitted on the lake, ensuring a peaceful experience.
Well-Maintained Walking and Hiking Trails: The Lake Trail, a 3-mile easy loop around the perimeter of the lake, is perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Other trails extend into the Shawnee National Forest, connecting to areas like Dixon Springs State Park, offering nearly 20 miles of interconnected trails ranging from easy to moderately difficult.
Scenic Beauty and Tranquility: Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, the area offers stunning views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and nature photography.
Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in the recreation area and campground, provided they are kept on a leash. However, pets are not allowed on the swimming beach or in the designated swim area.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a U.S. Forest Service recreation area and campground, Lake Glendale operates under a standardized fee structure determined by the managing authority. There are generally no special promotions or discounts offered beyond the established rates. Fees for camping are affordable, reflecting the value of the experience within a National Forest setting. For instance, single electric campsites are typically $25 per night, while single non-electric sites are $15. Double electric campsites are $48, and double non-electric sites are $28. Payment for camping is usually accepted via cash or check only, so visitors should plan accordingly. There are also nominal fees for beach access during the swimming season: $5.00 for ages 6 and up, and $3.00 for ages 1-5, with children under 1 year old admitted free. While specific "deals" might not be advertised, the inherent affordability and the wealth of activities available at Lake Glendale make it an excellent value for any Illinois local seeking an outdoor adventure.

Contact Information

For general inquiries about Lake Glendale Recreation Area and its facilities, you can reach out using the following contact information. Please remember that camping at Oak Point Campground is first-come, first-served, so direct reservations are not taken via phone.

Address: Beach, Grantsburg, IL 62943, USA (Note: While "Beach" is listed, it refers to the general recreation area, specifically near the beach and campground.)
Phone: (618) 949-3356
Mobile Phone: +1 618-949-3356

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers an unparalleled outdoor experience that is perfectly suited for Illinois locals. Its location within the beautiful Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois provides an accessible yet wonderfully immersive natural escape. For residents throughout the state, Lake Glendale represents a convenient and complete destination for a diverse range of outdoor pursuits, from a relaxing day at the beach to an adventurous multi-day camping trip.

What makes Lake Glendale particularly appealing to locals is its combination of natural beauty and practical amenities. The 80-acre lake is a central attraction, offering pristine waters for swimming, excellent fishing opportunities, and a serene environment for kayaking or small electric-motor boating. The well-maintained walking and hiking trails, including the popular Lake Trail, provide ample opportunities for exercise and exploration, allowing visitors to truly connect with the diverse flora and fauna of the Shawnee National Forest. The availability of electric and water hookups at Oak Point Campground, along with clean restrooms and showers, ensures a comfortable camping experience for both RVers and tent campers.

The positive feedback from past visitors highlights the area's peaceful ambiance and the beauty of its surroundings. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot for fishing, a safe lake for children to swim, or simply a tranquil setting to unwind amidst nature, Lake Glendale delivers. It's a place where memories are made around a campfire, where the stress of daily life fades away with each paddle stroke on the calm water, and where the stunning landscapes of Southern Illinois invite you to return time and again. For any Illinois resident craving an authentic and rejuvenating outdoor adventure, Lake Glendale Recreation Area is a must-visit destination that truly encapsulates the best of what the state has to offer.