Valley Lake

Between Waukegan and the Chain O’Lakes

Constructed in 1952, Valley Lake is a smaller, human-made lake that encompasses 12 acres with only 0.71 miles of shoreline. Most of the lake is lined with residential areas, except for two parks.

This lake is conveniently located around nine miles from the city of Waukegan, which rests on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is located around 12 miles from the Chain O’Lakes waterway system, which consists of about 7,000 acres between 15 lakes.

Lake Fun and Boating on the Chain O’Lakes

Only non-motorized boating is allowed on Valley Lake due to its smaller size. This makes it the perfect oasis for swimmers, fishers, and anyone looking to take a calm trip in a canoe or kayak. Larger Gages Lake is not even a mile to the west.

Just a mile across the road is the scenic Almond Marsh Forest Preserve. It is 503 acres of local wildlife, especially birds. Bird watching is a favorite here with migrating waterfowl, the state-endangered black-crowned night heron, and king rail, to name a few.

One of the more popular attractions near Valley Lake is the highly trafficked Chain O’Lakes waterway system. The Chain O’Lakes system is made up of fifteen lakes that all sit in Lake County. The Chain is reported to be the busiest inland recreational waterway per acre in the United States.

Due to the large size of the 7,000-acre Chain O’Lakes region, there is a plethora of shops, restaurants, vacation rentals, and attractions for the family to enjoy.

Golfing

Hold onto your seat golf lovers, and the Merit Club Golf Course is only four miles from Valley Lake. The pictures on their website don’t do it justice; this picturesque golf course is sure to make any player of the game fall in love. With 18-holes of manicured greens, this course is excellent for any level of player.

Live Your Best Life on Valley Lake

Whether you are looking to buy a family home, a full-time retirement residence, or a vacation rental, Valley Lake is an excellent choice.