Helpful Resources

for Your Visit

Planning a day on the water, a marina stay, or a weekend getaway? These resources can help you prepare for your visit to Spring Lake Marina and the Chain O' Lakes.

ABOUT THE AREA

The Chain O'Lakes is a waterway system in northeast Illinois composed of 15 lakes connected by the Fox River and man-made channels. Encompassing more than 7,100 acres of water, 488 miles of shoreline and 45 miles of river, the Chain is the busiest inland recreational waterway per acre in the United States. Located on the border of Lake County and McHenry County, about an hour's drive from the cities of Chicago, Milwaukee, and Rockford, the lakes are popular with boaters and fishermen drawing weekend crowds of 30,000 and holiday crowds of 100,000 people. The Fox Waterway Agency, a special local governing body, is responsible for oversight of the Chain O’Lakes.


Below are some helpful links for getting the most out of your experience here at Spring Lake Marina and surrounding area.


BOATING THE CHAIN O’LAKES

• Map

• Illinois Boating License  

• Fox Waterway Agency   

• Illinois Department of Natural Resources 

• Rental Boat Safety   

• Blarney Island

• Captain’s Quarters   

• Power Boat Safety 101




LODGING

• Cypress Resort & Marine  

• Best Western Antioch Hotel & Suites  

• CJ Smith Resort   

• Petite Lake Resort


CAMPING

• Channel Lake State Park 


FISHING

• CJ Smith Resort  

• Triangle Bait & Tackle