Originally a natural wetland, it was dredged in the 1920s to create a recreational lake. The lake's hydrology is primarily fed by several small streams as well as local rainfall and snowmelt. The surrounding area is predominately agricultural, with some residential development. The lake supports a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. However, the lake's water quality has been negatively impacted by runoff from agricultural and residential areas, leading to issues with algae blooms and other water quality concerns. The lake is managed by the Channel Lake Improvement Association, which works to address these issues and promote the lake's recreational use.
Wind
Humidity
| Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change | -10.49% |
| Percent of Normal | 92% |
| Minimum |
1.65 ft
2025-01-23 |
| Maximum |
8.12 ft
2017-07-17 |
| Average | 4 ft |
Nippersink Creek Near Spring Grove
|
133cfs |
Mill Creek At Old Mill Creek
|
45cfs |
Fox River Near New Munster
|
986cfs |
Des Plaines River At Russell
|
244cfs |
Nippersink Creek Above Wonder Lake
|
63cfs |
Boone Creek Near Mc Henry
|
13cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mud Lake West
|
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Fourth Lake Resort campsite
|
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North Branch Conservation Area (cyclists only)
|