How do I access Highway 13 - West?

Highway 13 - West is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highway 13 - West?

Highway 13 - West 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 Highway 13 - West?

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

When is the best time to visit Highway 13 - West?

The best time to paddle at Highway 13 - West is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Highway 13 - West?

Water conditions at Highway 13 - West include calm, sheltered.

Is Highway 13 - West good for beginners?

Yes, Highway 13 - West 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

Highway 13 - West

Carterville, IL · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 13 - West is a public boat ramp on Crab Orchard Lake near Carterville, 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

Launch into Crab Orchard Lake near Carterville, Illinois. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Highway 13 - West is a public access point on Crab Orchard Lake in Illinois, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Carterville, Highway 13 - West is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Carterville area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Highway 13 - West ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 13 - West?: Highway 13 - West is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 13 - West?: Highway 13 - West 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 Highway 13 - West?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 13 - West?: The best time to paddle at Highway 13 - West is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Highway 13 - West?: Water conditions at Highway 13 - West include calm, sheltered.
Is Highway 13 - West good for beginners?: Yes, Highway 13 - West 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: 37.7456, -89.1180