View from the John English trail
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Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park

4.4
·192 reviews·Hudson, United States

A sprawling nature escape with a beautiful lake, offering water sports, biking, hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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View from the John English trail

Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling nature escape with a beautiful lake, offering water sports, biking, hiking, camping, and picnicking.

4.4
(192 reviews)

"A beautiful park that is worth the stop! Get out to stretch your legs, go fishing, or just be at peace with the nature surrounding you."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack a Picnic 🧺

Numerous picnic shelters and tables make it ideal for a leisurely day out.

Camping Comforts 🏕️

Campground offers electric and some water hookups; sites vary in size.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Evergreen Lake Views

Evergreen Lake Views

Lakeside

Enjoy peaceful moments by the water, with benches offering perfect spots to admire the lake.

Reddit
Glasener Beach Area

Glasener Beach Area

Glasener Beach

Rent boats, swim, or simply relax by the water. A hub for lake activities.

Reddit
Well-Maintained Trails

Well-Maintained Trails

Around Evergreen Lake

Loop around the lake on a scenic path, perfect for walking and enjoying nature.

Reddit
Mountain Biking Trails

Mountain Biking Trails

Comlara Park

Explore an extensive network of trails for an adventurous biking experience.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park is a sprawling nature escape perfect for water sports, biking, and picnicking. Plan for a full day or a camping trip to truly soak in the serene atmosphere and beautiful lake views. Reddit

Seasonal Activities & Rentals

Canoe and boat rentals are available seasonally at Glasener Beach. Check park schedules for events like Nature Trails Day. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for beach & water sports
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nature Trails Day is moving to Comlara Park at Evergreen Lake on Saturday, September 16th for another family-friendly romp through the woods, celebrating Illinois’ rich biodiversity. The Illinois Grand Prairie Master Naturalists, a division of the University of Illinois Extension, organize and host the free event that runs from 10 a.m. –1 p.m. and is centered around three pavilions near the park’...
wgltnews
9 likes • 381 views

Pack a Picnic 🧺

Numerous picnic shelters and tables make it ideal for a leisurely day out. Reddit

Camping Comforts 🏕️

Campground offers electric and some water hookups; sites vary in size. Reddit

Wildlife Spotting 🦢

Keep an eye out for pelicans and other diverse birdlife. Reddit

Explore by Bike 🚴

Don't miss the extensive mountain biking trail system for an active adventure. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack a Picnic 🧺

Numerous picnic shelters and tables make it ideal for a leisurely day out. Reddit

Camping Comforts 🏕️

Campground offers electric and some water hookups; sites vary in size. Reddit

Wildlife Spotting 🦢

Keep an eye out for pelicans and other diverse birdlife. Reddit

Explore by Bike 🚴

Don't miss the extensive mountain biking trail system for an active adventure. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(192 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park for its serene beauty, abundant nature, and diverse recreational activities. The well-maintained trails, peaceful lake views, and family-friendly amenities like the beach and picnic areas are frequently highlighted. While some note potential size limitations for RVs at certain campsites, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return. Reddit

"Gorgeous outdoor area around evergreen lake. Our favorite spot was where you can walk up to the edge of the lake and there’s a nice bench to sit on and just enjoy the view.
Boat and other rentals at the Glasener beach area."

Nilesh Thali

"This is a beautiful park that is worth the stop! Get out to stretch your legs, go fishing, or just be at peace with the nature surrounding you. I enjoyed the well maintained walking path that loops around Evergreen Lake. There were so many pelicans, but they did not let me get very close. Visited March 18, 2025."

Danielle Cozzola

"Such a wonderful park. Peaceful, quiet, and dark. Hookups are electric and some have water. The sites in toward the back of the park can't really accommodate a rig longer then 40 ft. 1 Dump station. Beautiful views of the lake and biking and walking trails. We definitely would come back."

Robyn Migz

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Well-maintained trails
Peaceful and serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

RV size limitations at some sites

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park is a spacious county park. Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but it's generally accessible by car. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, especially near picnic areas, beaches, and trailheads. Reddit

Using GPS with the park's name or address is recommended for easy navigation. Reddit

Public transport options are limited for this nature recreation spot. Driving is the most common way to access the park. Reddit

The park has well-maintained walking paths and designated roads for vehicles. Maps are usually available at the park entrance or visitor center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific fee information can vary, many county parks like this offer free general admission, with potential fees for specific amenities or camping. It's best to check the official park website for the most current details. Reddit

Park hours typically extend from early morning to late evening, but specific times can vary by season. Camping areas are accessible 24/7 for registered guests. Reddit

Yes, booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, as it's a popular campground. Reddit

The park hosts events like Nature Trails Day. Check the park's official calendar for upcoming activities and registration information. TikTok

Yes, canoes and other small watercraft can be rented seasonally at the boat ramp by the beach house. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Activities include water sports, fishing, biking (including mountain biking), hiking, picnicking, and camping. Reddit

Yes, there is a designated swimming beach at Glasener Beach area. Reddit

Absolutely! Fishing is a popular activity, with fishing piers and lakeside spots available. Reddit

The campground offers electric and some water hookups. Sites towards the back may have length limitations for larger rigs. There is one dump station. Reddit

Typically, pets are allowed in county parks but must be leashed. Always check specific park rules regarding pets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Lakeside views, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer stunning photo opportunities. The walking paths provide scenic vistas. Reddit

Yes, the park is home to various wildlife, including pelicans. Remember to maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

Drone usage policies vary by park. It's essential to check the park's regulations regarding drone operation before flying. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape and wildlife photography due to softer lighting. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Glasener Beach area offers a safe and fun spot for kids to play in the water and swim. The well-maintained walking path around Evergreen Lake is perfect for strollers and little legs, offering easy access to beautiful views and opportunities to spot wildlife like pelicans. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many shelters with tables, making lunch easy and enjoyable. For older children and teens, the mountain biking trails in Comlara Park offer an exciting adventure. Camping is also an option, providing a memorable experience for the whole family. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Water Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, Evergreen Lake provides ample opportunities. You can cast a line from the lakeshore, fishing piers, or even from a boat. The lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a rewarding spot for both casual and serious anglers. Reddit

Water sports lovers will appreciate the boat ramps and the seasonal rental of canoes and other small watercraft at Glasener Beach. Whether you prefer paddling leisurely on the lake or engaging in more active water activities, Evergreen Lake offers a refreshing experience. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Hikers

Cyclists will find a paradise in Comlara Park, with its extensive mountain biking trail system offering a variety of challenges and scenic routes. The trails are well-regarded for their quality and natural beauty. Reddit

Hikers can enjoy the loop trail around Evergreen Lake, which is perfect for a peaceful walk or a brisk jog, offering constant views of the water. The park's natural setting provides a serene environment for both biking and hiking adventures. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Evergreen Lake

Evergreen Lake is the centerpiece of this expansive recreation area, offering a variety of water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing from numerous spots along the shore or from dedicated piers. For those looking to get out on the water, boat ramps are available, and canoes and other small watercraft can be rented seasonally at the Glasener Beach area. The lake also features a swimming beach, making it a popular spot for families and individuals looking to cool off during warmer months. Reddit

The lake's perimeter is encircled by a well-maintained walking path, providing a scenic route for leisurely strolls or more vigorous jogs. This path offers beautiful lakeside views and is dotted with benches, perfect for pausing to enjoy the tranquility. The presence of wildlife, such as pelicans, adds to the natural charm and offers opportunities for wildlife observation. Reddit

For campers, lakeside and lake-view campsites are available, allowing for an immersive experience surrounded by nature. The campground provides essential hookups, though some sites may have length restrictions for larger recreational vehicles. Reddit

Comlara Park's Adventure Trails

Comlara Park, integrated with Evergreen Lake, is a haven for outdoor adventurers, particularly mountain bikers. The park boasts an extensive mountain biking trail system that caters to various skill levels, offering challenging terrain and scenic routes through wooded areas. These trails are a significant draw for enthusiasts seeking an active outdoor experience. Reddit

Beyond biking, the park offers hiking trails that complement the natural landscape. These paths allow visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. For those interested in target practice, Comlara Park also features a multi-target archery range, adding another unique recreational option not commonly found in all area parks. Reddit

Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush on the trails or a peaceful walk in nature, Comlara Park provides a robust set of activities. The combination of biking, hiking, and archery makes it a versatile destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Reddit

Camping and Facilities

The campground at Evergreen Lake and Comlara Park is a significant draw for visitors looking to extend their stay. It offers electric and some water hookups, providing a comfortable base for exploring the park. However, it's important to note that sites towards the back of the park can have limitations for rigs longer than 40 feet. Reddit

Essential facilities include a single dump station for RVs. The park also provides multiple picnic shelters equipped with numerous tables, making it an excellent location for group gatherings, family reunions, or simply a pleasant picnic lunch amidst nature. Reddit

Overall, the camping and picnic facilities are designed to enhance the visitor experience, offering convenience and comfort for those wishing to spend more time enjoying the park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Reddit

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