Top 6 Lakes around Clarendon Hills
Lakes around Clarendon Hills offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, primarily centered around local park features and nearby forest preserves. While the village itself features a notable fishing pond within Prospect Park, the broader area includes several natural water bodies. These lakes and ponds provide settings for activities such as fishing, picnicking, and walking. The landscape surrounding these water features often includes natural prairie areas and forested paths.
Best lakes around Clarendon Hills
- The most popular lakes is Tomahawk Slough,…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Meadow Lake Picnic Area
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North Island
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Bullfrog Lake
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Maple Lake
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Prince Pond
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The surrounding forest and the variety of migratory birds spotted at Maple Lake make it a peaceful stop while hiking in Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve. The lake supports a healthy ecosystem for aquatic plants and animals, so take your time to observe and appreciate it.
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Prince Pond is the center of Prince Park in the middle of Downtown Downers Grove. This is a peaceful spot in an urban setting, and a great place to stop as you ride around the area.
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North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a charming small island nestled in the midst of Salt Creek. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with available picnic shelters, offering a perfect setting to relax, take in the views, and even set up your fishing pole.
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After your run, enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the scenic Meadow Lake. Find a spot to unpack your picnic and take in the natural beauty surrounding you. Gaze at the lush grasses and wildflowers fringing the tranquil waters. Listen to birdsong and the gentle breeze rustling through. Let the bright blooms and verdant landscape soothe you as you refuel. With its idyllic meadow views, this is an ideal spot to pause, picnic, and appreciate the splendor of nature here at Morton Arboretum.
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This is one of the larger lakes in Paw Paw Nature Preserve, which is threaded through with fun singletrack trails. The water sparkles a brilliant blue on sunny days. If you're looking for an easy ride, a mellow, unpaved trail goes most of the way around the lake but isn't a complete loop. (Sorry, pet owners: no dogs allowed.)
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With sweeping vistas and fresh air, the trails around Bullfrog Lake provide the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating hike. The shimmering waters invite canoeing, fishing, and serene contemplation, while the surrounding forested paths offer adventure, discovery, and abundant wildlife sightings. An oasis of natural beauty just half an hour from Chicago, Bullfrog Lake promises an unforgettable hiking experience.
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After your hike, enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the scenic Meadow Lake. Find a spot to unpack your picnic and take in the natural beauty surrounding you. Gaze at the lush grasses and wildflowers fringing the tranquil waters. Listen to birdsong and the gentle breeze rustling through. Let the bright blooms and verdant landscape soothe you as you refuel. With its idyllic meadow views, this is an ideal spot to pause, picnic, and appreciate the splendor of nature here at Morton Arboretum.
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Maple Lake is located close to Chicago. Migratory birds and many species of flora and fauna can be spotted here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I expect to find around Clarendon Hills?
The Clarendon Hills area features a mix of local park ponds, such as the one in Prospect Park, and natural water bodies within nearby forest preserves. These include fishing ponds, forest preserve lakes, and natural areas with water features, offering settings for activities like fishing, picnicking, and walking.
What are some popular lakes for fishing near Clarendon Hills?
For fishing enthusiasts, Tomahawk Slough is a popular choice known for its peaceful setting. Additionally, the pond in Prospect Park is regularly stocked with catfish and bass, and North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve also offers opportunities for setting up a fishing pole in Salt Creek.
Are there lakes suitable for family outings in the Clarendon Hills area?
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. Meadow Lake Picnic Area is ideal for a family lunch with scenic views. North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve provides picnic shelters, and Bullfrog Lake offers trails for family hikes and wildlife sightings.
Where can I find lakes with walking or hiking trails around Clarendon Hills?
You can find trails around Bullfrog Lake, which are great for hiking and wildlife spotting. The pond in Prospect Park also has paved walking paths ranging from 0.5 to 1 mile. For more options, explore the easy hikes available in the region, which you can find in the Easy hikes around Clarendon Hills guide.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are home to various wildlife. At Maple Lake, you can spot migratory birds and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Bullfrog Lake is also known for abundant wildlife sightings along its trails.
Are there picnic areas available at the lakes around Clarendon Hills?
Yes, several locations offer picnic facilities. Meadow Lake Picnic Area is specifically designed for picnicking with scenic views. North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve also provides picnic shelters for visitors.
Can I go ice skating on any lakes in Clarendon Hills during winter?
During colder months, when conditions permit, the fishing pond in Prospect Park is lighted and available for ice skating, offering a unique winter recreational activity.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes besides walking?
Beyond walking and hiking, the area around Clarendon Hills offers various outdoor activities. You can find road cycling routes, such as those detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Clarendon Hills guide, and running trails, which are listed in the Running Trails around Clarendon Hills guide.
Are there any lakes with specific rules, like dog restrictions?
Yes, it's important to be aware of specific rules. For instance, dogs are not allowed at Bullfrog Lake. Always check local signage or park district websites for the most current regulations regarding pets and other activities.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Clarendon Hills?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking and wildlife observation, especially for migratory birds at Maple Lake. Summer is great for picnicking and fishing, while winter, when conditions allow, provides opportunities for ice skating at Prospect Park pond.
Are there any lakes that are part of a larger forest preserve?
Yes, several lakes are integrated into larger forest preserves. North Island is located within Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, and Bullfrog Lake and Maple Lake are part of the broader forest preserve system, offering extensive natural settings.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the peaceful settings for fishing, the scenic views for picnicking, and the opportunities for hiking and observing wildlife. The blend of active and passive leisure pursuits, from tranquil contemplation by the water to exploring trails, makes these lakes a valued local resource for outdoor recreation.
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