Sterling Lake (Van Patten Woods) in Illinois

Trip Overview

Until just recently, no privately-owned canoes or kayaks were allowed on lakes within the Lake County Forest Preserve District properties. The District changed the policy, and now we can paddle here!

This 74-acre lake is surrounded by grassy picnic and marshy areas. Open April - October, 6:30AM - sunset.

Accommodations:

Picnic tables, water wells, pit toilets, hiking trails, fishing, and close to the Des Plaines River.

Fees:

State boat registration is required, and the ranger who checks fishing licenses also looks for boat tags.

Directions:

The entrance to Van Patten Woods is on IL Rte 173, about 1/4 mile east of US Rte 41. Follow the road as it curves left, then wraps right around the lake. The Put-In is at the concession stand.

Contact:

Lake County Forest Preserve
Web: www.lcfpd.org
Tel: 847-367-6640

Resources:

http://www.lcfpd.org/preserves/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view&object_id=215&type=P