Lake McLeansboro

**Location & Access**
Lake McLeansboro provides boat ramp access to Bear Creek in McLeansboro, Hamilton County, Illinois. This access point serves paddlers and boaters looking to explore a medium-sized river system in the region.

**Water Conditions & Paddling Character**
Bear Creek is a Class 5 stream (medium river) with a drainage area of 89 square miles. The creek features a moderate gradient averaging 62.4 feet per mile with an average flow of 8.39 cubic feet per second and typical water velocity of 1.23 feet per second. Note that this access point is located near the headwaters of Bear Creek—the water body extends 21.5 miles total with significant elevation change (1,343 feet total drop). Paddlers should expect variable conditions depending on recent rainfall and the specific section being explored downstream.

**Before You Go**
Contact local authorities or check current conditions before launching, as water levels and flow rates can fluctuate seasonally. This location serves as a good put-in point for kayakers and canoeists interested in exploring the upper Bear Creek watershed, though specific ramp amenities and facilities should be confirmed with McLeansboro municipal resources.