Lake Lou Yaeger Recreation Area Mountain Biking Trails

Get outside at Litchfield’s Lake Lou Yaeger. This 1,357-acre, 5.5-mile-long lake is the centerpiece of Litchfield’s bustling outdoors culture. In addition to boating and fishing, the surrounding 4,641 acres offer trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, campgrounds, a public swim beach, and a conservation area. You’ll find plenty to see, do, and explore at Lake Lou Yaeger in Litchfield, IL.

If you feel like “roughing it,” pack up your tent, your camper or your two-door sedan and go camping at Lake Lou Yaeger.

Lake Lou Yaeger campgrounds are located along Park Road, nestled in the woods of the Lake grounds. Campgrounds are a short half-mile walk or drive from the shore and within 5 miles of other Litchfield amenities. Campgrounds are open April 1 to October 31, and fees vary depending on campground option and length of stay.

To make a reservation, please call the Campground Managers at 217-324-4771. If necessary, please leave a message with your name and number and someone will return your call. Reservations are not available online. Campgrounds accept cash, check or credit card. Credit cards can only be used on transactions larger than $15, and include a $2 service charge. A credit card is required for all cabin reservations along with a $15 non-refundable deposit. No shows will be charged a one night camping fee.

The Route 66 Hike & Bike Trail at Lake Lou Yaeger is named in honor of the Route 66 influence in Litchfield. A round trip trek on this trail is approximately 6.6 miles. Trail heads are indicated by signage and accessible at any picnic area or playground. The trail is complete with trail markers and maps. From April 1 to October 31, bathrooms are available at each picnic area the trail passes. Make sure to bring water and food with you. Also make sure to wear appropriate walking shoes for uneven terrain. Other items you may want to consider is bug spray, basic first aid, binoculars, and a camera.

Renovated in 2015, Lake Lou Yaeger offers tent and trailer campgrounds for equestrian visitors. There are 25 Equestrian campsites available (including two handicap sites), featuring 30/50amp electricity, tie line poles, a water spigot for your site, two manure pits, and a shower house on the campground. If you do not need power or water hookups, adjacent primitive equestrian camping is available. Accessible from each Equestrian Campground is a trail head that is your entrance way to approximately 25 miles of trails. These trails traverse the woods surrounding the lake, and range from beginner to advanced. On your adventure you and your four-hoofed friend will encounter a water crossing. There are no additional fees for using the trails. Day riders are welcome and can park in the primitive campground.

The Route 66 Hike & Bike Trail at Lake Lou Yaeger is named in honor of the Route 66 influence in Litchfield. A round trip trek on this trail is approximately 6.6 miles. Trail heads are indicated by signage and accessible at any picnic area or playground. The trail is complete with trail markers and maps. From April 1 to October 31, bathrooms are available at each picnic area the trail passes. Make sure to bring water and food with you. Also make sure to wear appropriate walking shoes for uneven terrain. Other items you may want to consider is bug spray, basic first aid, binoculars, and a camera.