How do I access Stump Lake?

Stump Lake is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Stump Lake?

Stump Lake supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Stump Lake?

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

When is the best time to visit Stump Lake?

The best time to paddle at Stump Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Stump Lake?

Water conditions at Stump Lake include mild current.

Is Stump Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Stump Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Kayakers on a wide heartland river at sunset with flat green banks

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Stump Lake

Brussels, IL · Boat Ramp · Public

Stump Lake is a public boat ramp on Illinois RIver near Brussels, Illinois. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Stump Lake offers river paddling on Illinois RIver in Illinois. Located near Brussels.

Located in Illinois, Stump Lake puts you on Illinois RIver with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

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

At about 10 min from Brussels, Stump Lake is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Brussels area.

Paddling Tips

•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Stump Lake?: Stump Lake is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Stump Lake?: Stump Lake supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Stump Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Stump Lake?: The best time to paddle at Stump Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Stump Lake?: Water conditions at Stump Lake include mild current.
Is Stump Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Stump Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.0190, -90.5644