Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Little Grassy Lake

Makanda, IL · Boat Ramp · Public

Little Grassy Lake is a public boat ramp on Little Grassy Lake near Makanda, 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

Lake access at Little Grassy Lake near Makanda, Illinois. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Little Grassy Lake in Illinois, Little Grassy Lake is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

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 Makanda takes about 5 min, putting Little Grassy Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Little Grassy Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

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 Little Grassy Lake?
Little Grassy Lake is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Little Grassy Lake?
Little Grassy Lake 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 Little Grassy Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Little Grassy Lake?
The best time to paddle at Little Grassy Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Little Grassy Lake?
Water conditions at Little Grassy Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Little Grassy Lake good for beginners?
Yes, Little Grassy Lake 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: 37.6431, -89.1408

Quick Facts

Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Makanda
Get Directions

37.6431, -89.1408

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