Lake Thunderbird

Just West of the Illinois River

Lake Thunderbird is located two hours southwest of Chicago, Illinois, in Putnam County. With an overall size of 115 acres, you can enjoy eight miles of shoreline at Lake Thunderbird. Most of the surrounding landscape consists of rolling hills and valleys.

Initially created in the 1970s for people looking to escape the state's big cities, this lake is still an oasis for people looking to live in nature.

Surrounded By Nature

Miles of parks and trails invite both hikers and mountain bikers to run, pedal, or walk across the winding terrain. More calming nature walks and local playgrounds make for a more leisurely hike for children and families.

The lake invites residents to boat, swim, fish, canoe, kayak, tube, waterboard, and more. One year, an angler reportedly caught a 43-inch tiger muskie on Lake Thunderbird. If you can't beat his record, you might hook a largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, bluegill, catfish, channel catfish, or muskie.

Residents can enjoy recreational activities in the winter months as well. Hunting, bird watching, skiing, ice skating, and ice fishing are often experienced when the weather gets chilly.

If you are looking to trek into the woods fully, the Miller-Anderson Woods Nature Preserve is just a few miles up the road. The nature preserve is located to the northeast of the lake and encompasses over 300 acres of land booming with oak-hickory forests and prairies full of lush vegetation.

The City of Princeton, Illinois

If you are looking to experience city life, Princeton, Illinois, is just around 20 miles away. While there, you can visit the unique shops downtown, explore new parks, and be entertained by local events.

The Best Place to Experience Lake Life

Whether you are looking to buy a family home, a full-time retirement residence, or a vacation rental, Lake Thunderbird is an excellent choice.