The Chain O’ Lakes is one of the most iconic freshwater playgrounds in the Midwest—known for boating, fishing, waterfront living, and scenic views that draw visitors and locals alike. But many people are surprised to learn just how large and interconnected this system really is.
If you’ve ever wondered which lakes make up the Chain O’ Lakes, here’s your complete guide.
The Structure of the Chain O’ Lakes
The Chain O’ Lakes system stretches from the Illinois/Wisconsin border and flows south through both Lake County and McHenry County. The Fox River serves as the central artery of the system, connecting many of the lakes and making the Chain one of Illinois’ busiest and most navigable waterway networks.
In total, the Chain is composed of 15 lakes—10 connected by the Fox River and 5 additional lakes linked by smaller canals and channels with limited access.
The 10 Lakes Connected by the Fox River
Three of these lakes are natural water bodies, while the remaining seven are connected through the Fox River’s flow.
Natural Lakes
Grass Lake – The first lake in the Chain as the Fox River enters Illinois.
Fun fact: It’s the shallowest lake in the system, averaging only 3 feet deep, yet it’s the third largest at approximately 1,360 acres.
Lake Marie
Nippersink Lake
Additional Lakes Connected by the Fox River
Bluff Lake
Fox Lake – One of the two largest lakes in the Chain, covering about 1,700 acres.
Pistakee Lake – Also about 1,700 acres, and part of the southwestern portion where the Fox River exits the Chain.
Channel Lake
Petite Lake
Lake Catherine
Redhead Lake
These interconnected waterways form the core of the recreational boating and waterfront lifestyle the Chain O’ Lakes is known for.
Five Additional Lakes with Limited Access
These lakes connect through small channels or canals and offer quieter, more private experiences:
Duck Lake
Long Lake
Spring Lake
Dunns Lake
Brandenburg Lake
While not all are navigable by larger boats, they contribute to the overall ecosystem and charm of the region.
How the System Flows
The Chain O’ Lakes officially begins where the Fox River crosses into Illinois from Wisconsin. From there, it flows into Grass Lake, then connects into Fox Lake and subsequently Pistakee Lake through Nippersink Lake.
The Fox River exits the Chain at the southwest corner of Pistakee Lake, continuing its path south through McHenry.
A Unique Midwest Treasure
Whether you’re boating on Pistakee, fishing on Bluff Lake, or enjoying the serene views from Long Lake, the Chain O’ Lakes offers something special for everyone. With 15 lakes and miles of connected waterways, it’s truly one of Illinois’ premier destinations for recreation, relaxation, and waterfront living.
If you’re exploring homes or lifestyle opportunities on the Chain, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
