Natural swimming hole
Lake Glendale Beach
Lake · Illinois
About this swimming hole
Lake Glendale's staffed swimming beach sits on an 82-acre lake deep in the Shawnee National Forest. The Forest Service lists beach hours of 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day to Labor Day, with weekend-only hours after August 1. Swimming is allowed at the beach only, and pets are barred from the swim area. A concession stand, showers, changing rooms, and kayak and paddleboat rentals round out the visit.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | Memorial Day-Labor Day |
| Fees | $5 (ages 6+); $3 (ages 1-5); free under 1 |
| Hours | 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon-Sat; noon-6 p.m. Sun; weekends only after Aug 1 |
| Amenities | concession stand, showers, changing rooms, kayak and paddleboat rentals |
| County | Pope County |
| Nearest town | Golconda |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard on duty (per local hiking guide). |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to visit Lake Glendale Beach?
Reported fee info: $5 (ages 6+); $3 (ages 1-5); free under 1. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake Glendale Beach?
The best season is typically Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Is Lake Glendale Beach safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: No lifeguard on duty (per local hiking guide).. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.