William W. Powers State Recreation Area

William W. Powers State Recreation Area, located on Wolf Lake on Chicago'​s far southeast side at the Illinois-Indiana state line, offers opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy nature in the city for residents and visitors. 

A 160-acre recreation area was acquired by the State of Illinois in 1947 and became known as the Wolf Lake State Recreation Area. Other acquisitions have now increased the area to 580 acres, of which 419 acres are water.

In 1965, the Illinois General Assembly approved changing the name of the site to honor the memory of William W. Powers, a former state legislator, who was well-known for his deep interest in the promotion of recreation for the residents of his district.

Wolf Lake provides outstanding fishing, with largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, bullhead, carp, walleye, and hybrid muskie. About six miles of shoreline is available to bank fisherman.

William W. Powers SRA is a great venue for nature education for area children and families, as well as for picnics and family outings.  ​​​​​

• Follow this Link to read and/or download the "William W. Powers Progress Report, Fall 2017.

• Follow this Link to read and/or download the Executive Summary of the Enhancement Recommendations

Keep William W. Powers SRA Beautiful

This area is for all to enjoy, so help keep it clean. Put all litter in the nearest available trash container. Camping or swimming is not permitted. No plants or parts of any tree may be removed or damaged.