You may know there’s no shortage of lakes and streams in suburban Cook County. (And that’s not to mention Lake Michigan – the greatest Great Lake of them all.) But did you know there’s a number of unique ways you can get out on the water…..no boat of your own, no problem?
Kayaks and canoes can be rented at many places. But we’ve pulled together several other ways you can live a lake life right here close to home.
Rentals for everything from paddleboats to stand-up paddle boards and sailboats to motorized fishing boats can be found at various lakes throughout suburban Cook County. Classes are available at some.
Check individual locations for dates and availability so you can take advantage of the refreshing and healing power of nature’s water. (Yes, there’s been research to show that being in, on, or under water can make us happier and healthier. Even the mere sight and sound of water has a positive effect!)
Northwestern University Sailing Center
Lucky for us: This hidden gem – tucked in a pocket of Evanston’s beautiful Northwestern campus – is open to the public. The Northwestern University Sailing Center on Lake Michigan rents stand-up paddleboards and Hobie catamarans on an hourly basis.
Not familiar? Stand up paddle boards (SUPs) look like surfboards and can be used for floating, paddling or even yoga. A catamaran is a small sailboat with two hulls that is popular for sailing on lakes or calmer waters.
If you’d rather take a class, you can try your hand at sailing, windsurfing, or SUP yoga. Private lessons are also available in sailing and windsurfing.
Glencoe Beach
Just a little further up the Lake Michigan coastline, Glencoe Beach in Glencoe rents stand-up paddleboards, sailboats and Hobie catamarans during the summer.
This is a relatively quiet, scenic beach that backs up to a line of trees and residential community. From your prime spot on the sparkling blue water, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Chicago skyline to the south and nature’s finest to the north.
A separate admission fee for the beach is required, but there’s also a spray park and volleyball courts to enjoy. They’ll even loan you a volleyball or cart to tote your gear from the free parking lot.
Lake Arlington
Looking for an easy no-fuss way to get out on the water? Lake Arlington in northwest suburban Arlington Heights rents paddle boats and pontoon-style pedal boats by the hour. You can also rent stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and sailboats.
P.S. You must demonstrate sailing experience to rent a sailboat. But they also offer sailing lessons.
This 50-acre man-made lake also offers catch-and-release fishing, as well as a playground, sensory garden, picnic area and outdoor exercise area.
Volkening Lake
You can also rent a paddle boat (or kayak) at pristine Volkening Lake in nearby Schaumburg. This approximately 11-acre lake also offers fishing, concessions, and an outdoor fitness area with cardio and body weight machines, as well as pull-up bars.
You can make a day of it by packing a picnic and enjoying the 0.7 mile paved trail loop around the lake. Be on the look-out for different wildflowers and blooming native plants throughout the year.
Maple Lake
Feel like slowly rowing through the quiet wilderness and casting a line? Part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, Maple Lake is a popular fishing lake all year long. (It’s even designated for ice fishing….no boats, of course. 😊)
The boating center rents row boats, as well as kayaks and canoes. They also have food, refreshments, fishing licenses, bait, and fishing gear. (Call ahead to confirm availability.)
This 60-acre lake near Willow Springs is home to a sizable fish population, but it’s also a popular migratory stop for geese and ducks.
Tampier Lake
Another popular fishing spot in the Forest Preserves of Cook County is Tampier Lake. You’ll find row boats and fishing boats with trolling motors/batteries for rent here, as well as kayaks and canoes. Boating center staff can also help gear you up with food, beverages and fishing supplies.
With over 131 acres of fishable water, Tampier Lake near Orland Park is a great place to lose yourself in nature for a while. Even if you’re not trying to land a fish, you can explore the preserves’ different nooks and crannies from a unique vantage point out on the water.