Boating At Kinkaid Lake In Illinois

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Boating on Kinkaid Lake, nestled in southern Illinois, offers boaters a tranquil escape amidst the Shawnee National Forest. Spanning over 2,750 acres, Kinkaid Lake provides a picturesque waterway for boating enthusiasts to explore and appreciate. With its serene ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, Kinkaid Lake is a popular destination for boaters and nature lovers alike.

The lake is a haven for popular water sports, attracting thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts looking for adventure. Activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing add excitement and exhilaration to the lake's peaceful atmosphere. Families and friends often gather on Kinkaid Lake to partake in these water sports, creating cherished memories and moments of joy on the water.

Kinkaid Lake boasts several boat launch ramps positioned around its shores, ensuring easy access for boaters with their own vessels. These convenient launch points make it hassle-free for boaters to set sail and discover the beauty of Kinkaid Lake, exploring hidden coves and serene waters.

For those without their own boats, Rental boats can be found on Kinkaid Lake, allowing everyone to experience the joys of boating and immerse themselves in the lake's natural beauty. Renting a boat enables visitors to navigate the tranquil waters of Kinkaid Lake and create lasting memories with family and friends without the need for boat ownership.

The lake is equipped with a marina that caters to the needs of boaters and water sports enthusiasts. The marina provides essential amenities such as boat repairs, fuel stations, boat storage, and more, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable boating experience for all visitors.

The boating season at Kinkaid Lake typically spans from spring to fall, coinciding with the warmer months and favorable weather in the region. During this time, boaters can enjoy the pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it an ideal season for boating and engaging in water-based activities.

Camping facilities are available near Kinkaid Lake, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Camping enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the serene charm of the lake's vicinity, enjoying the sounds of nature and starlit skies during their stay.

Fishing is also a beloved activity on Kinkaid Lake, attracting anglers seeking to catch various fish species, including bass, crappie, bluegill, and more. The lake's waters are teeming with fish, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day of fishing and embracing the tranquility of Kinkaid Lake.

Near Kinkaid Lake, Illinois, visitors can explore the city of Murphysboro, which is located to the east of the lake. Murphysboro offers a mix of small-town charm and cultural attractions, with a historic downtown featuring shops, restaurants, and the Jackson County Historical Society Museum. The city's Riverside Park provides a scenic spot for picnicking and enjoying views of the Big Muddy River. Outdoor enthusiasts will find delight in the nearby Shawnee National Forest, which offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Nestled in southern Illinois, Kinkaid Lake covers 2,700 acres offering excellent boating, water sports, camping and fishing. Boat ramps, a marina, bait and tackle, fishing docks and restaurants are all easily accessible. Bring a pleasure or fishing boat and enjoy water sports and sight seeing on this beautiful impoundment. For fishing, canoes and kayaks can be portaged to water from various locations. If you enjoy fishing from shore, there are over 70 miles of shoreline to explore in search of your favorite fish. The lake is home to several bass tournaments each year with better than average catches - including bass over 8 pounds. The lake is also home to crappie, catfish, walleye, sunfish and muskie.

Kinkaid Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Johnson Creek Recreation Area Campground - 618 833-8576

Sharp Rock Falls Campground - 618 763-5511

Dry Lake Campground - 618 684-8486

Mudline Lodging Campground - 618 967-2678

Kinkaid Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Kinkaid Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish and muskie.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Bluegill Redear Sunfish Muskie