Down By The Water At Lake Opeka and Lake Park

Now that June is (finally) here, it’s time to explore what might qualify as a hidden gem: Lake Opeka and Lake Park in Des Plaines. Under the auspices of the Des Plaines Park District, the facility offers outdoors lovers a variety of options to take advantage of the lazy summer days.

Lake Opeka water activities available are paddle boating (available for rental by the half hour), fishing (fishing license required, available at Fishtech, 5802 Dempster, Morton Grove, and other places), and – if you own your own sailboat – sailing. Regattas take place throughout the season on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday evenings; enthusiasts can also join the Des Plaines Yacht Club. Bring sunscreen (always good advice) and discuss the cut of your fellow sailor’s jib.

Lake Park has its own charms: an 18-hole par-3 golf course, a clubhouse that sells food, a picnic area, a kids’ playground, jogging paths, a sand volleyball court and a band shell (which hosts a summer entertainment series and movie screenings – check www.DPParks.org for more info). Feeling blessed by all this abundance? Step into Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, which is on the northern bank of Lake Opeka, to say a quick prayer of thanks.

 Lake Park/Lake Opeka, 1051 Howard Avenue, Des Plaines. (847) 391-5730