LAKE JACKSONVILLE

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Lake Jacksonville

Photo of Lake Jacksonville


Photo of Paved Trail at Lake Jacksonville

Photo of Over Night Camping Area at Lake Jacksonville
Lake Jacksonville, located just 3 miles south of the city, is a 500 acre lake filled with bass, bluegill and other sport fishing fare.  This lake is perfect for boating, skiing, fishing and other water activities.  Camping and fully equipped concession are available.  All inquiries call 217-479-4646


LAKE JACKSONVILLE WAS NAMED THE NUMBER ONE FISHING SPOT IN ILLINOIS BY FIELD AND STREAM 2007


BOATING & CAMPING

Lake Jacksonville will open for fishing March 11, 2023 at 8:00 a.m.  2022 seasonal boating permits are valid until April 1, 2023.  2023 seasonal boating permits must be purchased exclusively at the concession building at Lake Jacksonville starting April 1, 2023 and are valid through April 1, 2024.  Daily passes are available for $11.00 for those who do not wish to purchase a full season pass.  Proof of $25,000 liability insurance and proof of IL Department of Natural Resources number are required to purchase a permit.

Lake Jacksonville Gates 1 & 3 will be open for campsite winter check on February 18, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  All cables will remain in place from camping points 1-9, customers may park on the road and walk in.  Lake Jacksonville will open for camping March 31, 2023 and will close for the season on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.  All gates will lock at 5:00 p.m.

Camping lot lease payments can be made at the City Clerk's Office at the Municipal Building through March 31, 2023.  Payments must be made at the Lake Jacksonville Concession Stand beginning April 1, 2023 and will be accepted until the final due date of April 30, 2023.  A $50 late fee will be applied May 1 thru May 5, 2023.  Lake management will not accept payment after May 5, 2023.  Lots that are not paid by the May 5th deadline will be entered into the 2023 permanent camper lottery which will be held on May 14, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in the concession building.

Hours of the Lake Jacksonville Concession Stand are as follows:  (The concession building will be closed April 16, 2023 for the Easter holiday.)
             
              Sunday:                            8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
              Monday thru Thursday:    8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
              Friday and Saturday:        8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.                  

Overnight camping is available April through October.  Fire rings, a dump station, trash pick up and water services are available. Water service will not be turned on until the weather allows.  Please contact 217-479-4646 to reserve a campsite.
  
DEER & DUCK SITES

The drawing for deer and duck sites will be announced at a later date.

Requirement for Deer permit—must be resident of Morgan County & must show their driver’s license.

Requirement for Duck permit—must be a resident of the City & must show their   
driver’s license, hunting license, and FOID card.

If you have any questions, please call Lake Jacksonville Superintendent Brett Gilbreth at (217) 479-4644 or (217) 408-8771