Peoria Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Peoria Lake |
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 Peoria Lake
Location in Illinois
Peoria Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Peoria / Tazewell counties, Illinois, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 40°42′8″N 89°33′16″W / 40.70222°N 89.55444°W |
| Primary inflows | Illinois River (Upper Peoria Lake) |
| Primary outflows | Illinois River |
| Basin countries | United States |
Peoria Lake is a special part of the Illinois River. It sits between the cities of Peoria and East Peoria in Illinois. Peoria, the biggest city along the river, has its oldest parts right on the lake's edge.
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What is Peoria Lake?
Peoria Lake is not a separate lake. It is actually a wider section of the Illinois River. Imagine the river getting much wider and looking like a lake! This is how Peoria Lake was formed.
How Was Peoria Lake Discovered?
The first time anyone wrote about Peoria Lake was in 1674. This was when explorers Louis Joliet and Jacques Marquette traveled through the area. They were among the first Europeans to see this beautiful part of the river.
What Was Peoria Lake Called Before?
Long ago, Native American tribes lived near Peoria Lake. Important villages of the Kickapoo and Potawatomi tribes were located here. When early European settlers arrived, they called the lake Pimitéoui. This name means "Fat Lake." There was even a French fort built on its banks in 1691 called Fort Pimitéoui. Later, this fort became known as Old Fort Peoria.
Where is Peoria Lake Located?
Today, Peoria Lake stretches between two major bridges. On its north side, it starts just south of the McClugage Bridge. This bridge carries US 24 and US 150. The lake then flows south to the Murray Baker Bridge, which is part of Interstate 74. A larger body of water, called Upper Peoria Lake, flows into Peoria Lake from the north.
What Can You Do at Peoria Lake?
Peoria Lake is a popular spot for fun activities. Many people visit it for different reasons.
Watersports and Recreation
The lake is a great place for many watersports. People enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities here. It's a regional attraction, meaning many people from nearby areas come to visit.
Fourth of July Fireworks
Every year, the city of Peoria hosts a big Fourth of July fireworks show. This amazing display usually takes place right over Peoria Lake. It's a spectacular event that many families enjoy.
