Vandalia Lake facts for kids

Vandalia Lake is a beautiful man-made lake, also known as a reservoir, located in Fayette County, Illinois. It's about 5 miles (8 km) northwest of the city of Vandalia. This lake is really important because the city of Vandalia owns it and uses it for two main reasons: to help control floods and to provide water for the city.

Vandalia Lake is quite large, covering about 660 acres (which is like 500 football fields!). It has a shoreline that stretches for 12 miles. People love visiting the lake because it has a marina for boats, a boat dock, a campground for overnight stays, and a beach where you can relax and swim.

Fun at Vandalia Lake

Vandalia Lake is a popular spot for outdoor activities. Whether you love fishing, boating, or just enjoying nature, there's something for everyone.

Fishing Adventures

If you enjoy fishing, Vandalia Lake is a great place to cast your line! The lake is known for its excellent fishing, especially for bass. Fish like the largemouth bass are regularly added to the lake to make sure there are plenty for anglers to catch. You can also find other popular fish species here, such as channel catfish and bluegill. It's a perfect spot for a fun day of fishing with friends or family.

Boating and Recreation

The lake offers many ways to have fun on the water. With its marina and boat dock, it's easy to launch your boat for a day of cruising or water sports. The large size of the lake means there's plenty of space for everyone. Besides boating, the lake's beach is a wonderful place to cool off on a warm day or just relax by the water.

Camping and Exploring

For those who love the outdoors, Vandalia Lake has a campground where you can set up tents or park RVs. Camping lets you stay close to nature and enjoy the lake's beauty from sunrise to sunset. Many parts of the lake's shore have homes and properties, showing how much people enjoy living near this scenic area.

Lake's Water Journey

Vandalia Lake plays a key role in the local water system. The water from the lake eventually flows into Bear Creek, which then joins the larger Kaskaskia River. This connection helps manage water levels and supports the natural environment downstream.

Where the Lake Sits

The lake is mainly located across two areas called Shafter Township and Sharon Township in Fayette County. A small part of the lake even reaches into Bear Grove Township. These townships are local government areas, similar to small towns or districts.

A Bit of History

Long ago, when Abraham Lincoln was a young state legislator in Illinois, the area around the lake was home to black bears. These bears were so common that they gave their name to Bear Creek and Bear Grove. While the bears are no longer found in the area today, their legacy lives on in the names of these places, reminding us of the wild nature that once thrived here.