Clinton Lake

Clinton Lake is a 4,900-acre cooling lake managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, offering six public boat ramps for paddlers and boaters. This De Witt access point provides a wheelchair-accessible boat dock and is well-suited for kayakers and canoeists of all skill levels. The lake is designated as no-wake with electric motors only or no-boat areas in certain sections, making it ideal for quiet paddling experiences.

Conditions can change quickly on Clinton Lake—when winds pick up, the lake becomes quite rough, and small watercraft like kayaks and canoes should stay in the protected North Fork area of Salt Creek during windy days. Swimming is not permitted within 100 yards of bridges, boat ramps, or docks. The lake is popular for fishing and offers nearby amenities including shelters at multiple access areas (some with electricity available at Peninsula and Weldon accesses). Beach day-use fees are $2 per person.