Some friends bought a boat and want us to come over to Lake Springfield to do some boating. Anybody have any info on the best ramp to use? Does it really cost $15 just to put the boat on the water? Any hazards to look out for? Since it looks like it is a privately owned lake, is there any water patrol/dnr? Any information would be helpful. Thanks!

It has been a few years but yes $15 for a pass, There is a nice ramp off of Interstate 55 that crosses the lake. There is water patrol.. shallow lake i do remember that

I used the Wolf Creek state park ramp. But have been told the Eagle creek one is better.

Loved it. We spent a long weekend there and it was great. People were very friendly. I wish I pinned the location but there is a beach near a bridge that people raft/beach at and it is great for kids and just chilling.

Yes the pass is $15, We have used the ramp at the Marina off of I-55 & Chatham Rd exit. This ramp seemed to be a little tight if I remember correctly (at least for a 27 fter) but a nice ramp. You can launch and get your pass there. The lake is bigger than what one would think but it is a smaller one. If you stay in the main body you'll have no problems and if you go under the rail bridge (which is kinda tight) you'll get too the bigger body and party cove. Water patrol is there but not a big deal, we didn't see much of them at all but they do have a 35MPH speed limit.

BADS335, You are thinking of Lake Shelbyville and the beach is the one at the train tressel bridge.

You are correct! Woops haha.

I did buy my boat at a marina on Lake Springfield though . Seemed a bit small and the 35mph speed limit discourages me from another visit. But may make it a great lake for watersports.

Thanks for the replies guys. We used the marina ramp, which is pretty tight. The lake was pretty small and very shallow like was mentioned. The water patrol greeted us right outside the no wake of the marina, and the Springfield police were also making the rounds, which seemed like overkill for such a small lake. We were in the water for about 5 hours, and the lake left a nasty yellow stain everywhere that was below the water line. Luckily I had some power one that took it right off. It was ok to visit, but we more than likely wont be back.