Harbor Light Bay, Illinois facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harbor Light Bay, Illinois
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 Harbor Light Bay, Illinois
Location in Illinois
Harbor Light Bay, Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Illinois |
| County | Clinton |
| Elevation | 472 ft (144 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area code(s) | 618 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1810435 |
Harbor Light Bay is a small, quiet place in Illinois, United States. It is not a city or a town. It is a special kind of community called an "unincorporated community." This means it does not have its own local government like a mayor or city council. Instead, it is part of the larger Clinton County.
Harbor Light Bay is located right on the western shore of Carlyle Lake. This big lake is about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) southwest of a town called Keyesport. The people who own land here have a group called a landowner's association. This group helps manage things in the community.
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Discovering Harbor Light Bay
Harbor Light Bay is a peaceful spot known for its connection to Carlyle Lake. This area offers a calm environment away from busy cities. It is a great place for people who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The community is small, focusing on residential living near the lake.
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it is not officially a city or a village. It does not have its own local government. Instead, it is governed by the county it is in. For Harbor Light Bay, this means Clinton County handles services like roads and law enforcement.
People in unincorporated communities often form associations. These groups help manage shared spaces or common interests. The landowner's association in Harbor Light Bay works to keep the community nice for everyone.
Where is Harbor Light Bay Located?
Harbor Light Bay is found in Clinton County, which is in the state of Illinois. Illinois is a large state in the Midwest region of the United States. Clinton County is known for its farming and natural areas.
The community sits on the edge of Carlyle Lake. This lake is a very important feature of the area. It provides many opportunities for fun and relaxation. Being right on the lake makes Harbor Light Bay a popular spot for those who love water sports.
Life by Carlyle Lake
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois. It was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The lake helps control floods and provides water for nearby areas. It also creates a huge space for outdoor activities.
Fun Activities at the Lake
Many people visit Carlyle Lake for recreation. You can go boating on the wide-open waters. Fishing is also very popular, with many types of fish living in the lake. These include bass, crappie, and catfish.
The lake area also has places for camping and hiking. There are parks and trails around the shore. People can enjoy picnics, birdwatching, or just relaxing by the water. The natural beauty of the lake makes it a great escape.
Wildlife Around the Lake
Carlyle Lake is home to many different animals. You might see various types of birds, including waterfowl like ducks and geese. Deer, rabbits, and other small mammals also live in the forests nearby.
The lake's environment supports a rich ecosystem. This means many plants and animals thrive here. It is a wonderful place to learn about nature and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
History of the Area
The land where Harbor Light Bay is located has a long history. Before the lake was built, the area was mostly farmland. The creation of Carlyle Lake in the 1960s changed the landscape significantly.
Building Carlyle Lake
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started building Carlyle Lake in 1958. It was finished in 1967. The main reason for building the lake was to control flooding from the Kaskaskia River. It also provides a water supply and helps with recreation.
The lake project involved building a large dam. This dam holds back the river's water, forming the big lake we see today. The creation of the lake brought new opportunities for tourism and development to Clinton County.
Climate and Environment
Harbor Light Bay experiences a typical Midwestern climate. This means it has four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cold. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Weather Patterns
In summer, temperatures can reach above 80°F (27°C). Thunderstorms are common during this season. Winters often see temperatures drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall. The lake can sometimes freeze over in colder months.
The area receives a good amount of rainfall throughout the year. This helps support the local plant life and keeps the lake full. Understanding the weather helps people plan their activities in Harbor Light Bay.
