Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

Trails

Twenty-two miles of trail along the picturesque shoreline of the lake were opened in 1980. The trail system begins at the North Access parking lot. The trails are open to hiking, cross-country skiing, and equestrian use. A 5-mile mountain bike trail also is open. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

Boating

A two-lane boat ramp is available at the south access area. Concessions are available near the lake. The northern ends of the Sand Creek and Laws Creek fingers of the lake are restricted areas. Sailboating and swimming are not permitted. There is a 25 HP limit on boat motors.

Fishing

Newton Lake has a good bass population as a result of a comprehensive stocking program initiated shortly after the lake was impounded in 1976. Pole and line fishing only is permitted with a limit of two poles per fisherman.

To avoid the possibility of overharvest and thus assure good fishing in the future, it is necessary to impose an 18-inch minimum length on largemouth bass and a daily creel limit of three per angler. The lake may produce some of the largest bass in Illinois.

​Accessibility at Newton Lake:

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Parking - There are asphalt parking lots at the park office and east and west boat ramps. They all have accessible parking spaces. The park office does not have ssidewalks andis not wheelchair accessible.

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Restrooms - There are accessible vault toilets at the east and west ramps.

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Fishing - There are two accessible fishing docks, one at the east ramp and one at the west ramp. There are concrete sidewalks from the parking lot to the docks.

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Picnicking - The shelter has accessible parking, concrete sidewalks, and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables and grills.

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Service animals are welcome in the park, and water is available at both the east and west ramps.