How do I access Burham Harbor - North?

Burham Harbor - North is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Burham Harbor - North?

Burham Harbor - North supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Burham Harbor - North?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Burham Harbor - North?

The best time to paddle at Burham Harbor - North is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Burham Harbor - North?

Water conditions at Burham Harbor - North include calm, sheltered.

Is Burham Harbor - North good for beginners?

Yes, Burham Harbor - North is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a lake with a purple sky and trees in the background

Photo by Scotty Turner on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Burham Harbor - North

Chicago, IL · Boat Ramp · Public

Burham Harbor - North is a public boat ramp on Lake Michigan near Chicago, Illinois. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Burham Harbor - North offers lake paddling on Lake Michigan in Illinois. Located near Chicago.

Lake paddlers in Illinois will appreciate Burham Harbor - North, which offers direct access to Lake Michigan and its surrounding waters.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Chicago takes about 5 min, putting Burham Harbor - North within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to Chicago.

Launch points, tips, and local conditions →

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Burham Harbor - North ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Burham Harbor - North?: Burham Harbor - North is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Burham Harbor - North?: Burham Harbor - North supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Burham Harbor - North?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Burham Harbor - North?: The best time to paddle at Burham Harbor - North is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Burham Harbor - North?: Water conditions at Burham Harbor - North include calm, sheltered.
Is Burham Harbor - North good for beginners?: Yes, Burham Harbor - North is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.8604, -87.6125