Tucked away in the far southeast side of Chicago, Powderhorn Lake supports sand savanna, prairie and wetland habitats and reflects the ecological richness that survives in similar pockets across the industrialized Calumet region. The lake and surrounding lands are popular among anglers, nature lovers and birders.

On this page:

• Locations & Things to Do
• Fishing at Powderhorn Lake
• Boat Launch
• Nature Notes
• Volunteer Opportunities

Locations & Things to Do

Fishing at Powderhorn Lake

This 48-acre lake has a maximum depth of 17.4 feet and is connected to a large marsh on the north end. This marsh has been designated a wildlife refuge and a Nature Preserve by the State of Illinois—no fishing is permitted in this area. Features a trailered boat launch for canoes, kayaks, rowboats, sailboats and boats with electric trolling motors. Designated ice fishing lake.

• Fishing Map (PDF)
• Population Survey (PDF)

Boat Launch

A trailered boat launch provides access for canoes, kayaks, rowboats, sailboats and boats with electric trolling motors.

Nature Notes

Before the industrial age, Powderhorn Lake forest preserve was part of a continuous stretch of tallgrass prairie, sedge meadow, savanna and wetland in the Calumet region. In 2007, 130 of the preserve’s 192 acres were designated as the Powderhorn Prairie and Marsh Nature Preserve—the only state-dedicated nature preserve within Chicago city limits—to protect the dune and swale landscape—parallel sandy ridges alternating with low wetlands—that makes it so unique.

Powderhorn is home to about 250 plant species, 2,500 insects and 200 bird species, depending on the season. Black oak, white oak, pin oak and sassafras as well as woody plants such as hazelnut, elderberry and buttonbush accompany lower-growing plants such as prickly pear cactus, nodding wild onion, Indian hemp, partridge pea, purple love grass, cinnamon willow-herb, rough blazingstar, Turk’s cap lily, slender false foxglove and many more.

Between 2021 and 2024, more than 100 acres of wetlands were restored. Using a water control structure at the north end of Powderhorn Lake, land managers are now able to lower or maintain the water level as needed to recreate historic conditions, allowing water to drain safely from Powderhorn Lake through the northern marsh and into Wolf Lake and the Calumet River. The half-mile-long underground system has been engineered to prioritize safe passage that serves a diverse aquatic ecosystem, including fish, turtles and wetland birds.

After the restoration efforts, the northern end of the lake is now deep enough to provide an effective fish nursery, impacting the stock of different species. The boat launch platform is farther from the water line, making it easier for boaters and paddlers to access the lake.

Learn more about restoration efforts at the Powderhorn Lake:

• Powderhorn Lake Habitat Restoration

Volunteer Opportunities

You’ll never believe you are in Chicago city limits in this rare dune-and-swale landscape. Volunteers remove invasive plants, collect native seeds, and enjoy the beauty of this unique place. Tools, training, and any guidance provided.