Hiking trails, fishing access, and rolling terrain give Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area campground a varied activity base for visitors to the Lena, Illinois area. The campground sits within a state park built around a man-made lake, and campers can reach the water by following either the road or the trail network through the wooded grounds. Deer sightings are common along the trails, and a designated fishing pond provides an option for anglers when the main lake is off-limits. The park also includes an archery area, so campers should check posted schedules during hunting season before heading out on foot.
The campground divides into distinct loops with noticeably different character. Hickory Hill handles most RV traffic, with paved roads, electric and sewer hookups accommodating rigs up to 80 feet, and a shower house that multiple reviewers single out for consistent cleanliness. The tent loop at Pine Ridge tends to run quieter and fills early on holiday weekends. Tent sites are large and heavily shaded, though that loop relies on pit toilets rather than the full bathhouse. Some sites are not level, so those with larger rigs should factor that in when reserving.
The lake has seen recurring closures due to algae blooms and a prior drainage for maintenance, so water conditions are worth confirming before arrival, particularly for anyone planning to swim. Jack D. notes "paved roads, clean pump out area, and nice shower house" following recent park improvements. The dump station has been updated, and fire pits are cleared after each weekend. Rates run $10-$30 per night, and reservations are available. The campground is a practical base for campers interested in places to camp around Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, and works best for those who prioritize shade and trail access over water recreation.
Description
Whether you visit for an afternoon or stay a few days, you will leave Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area with many happy memories. Located in Stephenson County just west of Route 73 on Lake Road, the park is 6 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line and 3 miles north of Lena.
Highlighted by a 40-acre lake and all the recreational opportunities there, the park also offers multi-use trails, picnic areas, and RV, tent, equestrian and youth group campgrounds.
Developed as part of a statewide plan to provide Illinois citizens with recreational opportunities close to home, the park was started with a land acquisition program in 1948 and dedicated as a 715-acre state recreation area 10 years later.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na’s name is the result of a contest sponsored by the Stephenson County Sportsman’s Club, one of the park’s many sponsors. The name is a combination of the town of Lena and the Latin word for water, aqua.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area is located in Illinois near Lena
Coordinates
42.42300058 N
89.82400028 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- Verizon5GGood Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- Verizon5GGood Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 46 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 5 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 6 min from Janesville, WI
- 1 hr 13 min from Madison, WI


















