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Argyle Lake
Overview
Argyle Lake State Park, located just north of Colchester, Illinois, offers a peaceful retreat across 1,700 acres of scenic terrain. At the heart of the park lies a 95-acre man-made lake, which serves as the primary draw for visitors seeking both recreation and relaxation. This destination is well-regarded by regional travelers for its blend of rugged landscapes and accessible nature, providing a quiet escape from the bustle of city life.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated within the Lamoine River valley, characterized by rolling hills, deep ravines, and lush timber. Its location in McDonough County puts it within easy reach of Macomb, yet once inside the park, the dense oak and hickory forests create a sense of remote wilderness. The surroundings are particularly striking during the autumn months when the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of orange and gold.
Amenities & Park Features
For RV travelers, the park provides well-maintained Class A camping areas equipped with electricity. Guests have access to modern conveniences including a dump station, flush toilets, and shower buildings. The park also features multiple boat docks and a concession stand where visitors can rent pontoons or fishing boats. Picnic shelters and playgrounds are scattered throughout, making it easy to enjoy a full day outdoors with the comforts of home nearby.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers frequent the park to catch stocked rainbow trout, which are released into the lake twice a year. The park also boasts five miles of rugged hiking trails that wind through the timbered bluffs, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching with over 200 species recorded in the area. Nearby, the city of Macomb offers historical sites and the Western Illinois University campus for those looking to explore local culture beyond the forest edge.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts who prioritize scenic beauty and a quiet atmosphere over high-energy resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for families wanting to introduce children to fishing and hiking in a safe, manageable environment. If you are an RVer who enjoys wooded, private campsites and easy access to water-based recreation, Argyle Lake provides the perfect balance of rustic charm and essential modern facilities.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Martha Nall
Very accommodating. Took pontoon boat ride. Loads of wildlife. Great host and hostess. Loved it .
Dr. Mohammad Shamsuddoha
I liked this place very much. You will find peace here with nature.
Rebecca Danner
My family and I come here often to hike, drive around, and even camp, at times. We've been doing so for over 18 years. The trails are cut for the most part. Earlier in the season we came to hike and the trails we tried were not cleared yet. So I would advise to hit the trails once they've been cleared for a safer walkway. Unfortunately, we do not go to the shack anymore. We've had past experiences of rudeness, & closure when it was supposed to be open. Plus, you cannot rent kayaks there. We would love to see kayaks being rented out again. It would be such a bit. The lake and the land are both majestic. It's hard to beat the opportunity to bond with nature. This area is fortunate to have this park, everyone should check it out.
Ray Brown
We stayed one night while traveling and thoroughly enjoyed the park. We took several long walks. The park and campground are well maintained. We attempted to drive the loop around the park pulling our camper while leaving...unfortunately the road was blocked for construction without an easy way to turn around. We made the turn with luck, a patch of dry grass, and our 4 wheel drive.
Hope Fiser
Pleasantly surprised by this park! It made me feel like I was in Oregon again!! Easy access to all of the hiking trails from the park. The lake is serene, the views are gorgeous, there are lots of hiking options. Overall this place is severely underrated!!
