Known as a fisherman's delight, Argyle Lake State Park has a full complement of recreational opportunities. Just 7 miles from Macomb, Argyle Lake also offers picnicking, camping, hiking and boating facilities in a scenic, natural setting.

With its 93-acre lake for boating and fishing, 5 miles of rugged foot trails through luxuriant virgin forests, and full-service campgrounds, this heavily wooded, 1,700-acre site is the ideal place to spend a day, a weekend, or longer.

Rich in local history, Argyle Hollow (now occupied by the lake) was once part of the old stage route between Galena and Beardstown. Several times a week the high-wheeled cumbersome coaches with their double teams of horses rumbled through these beautiful hills and valleys.

The region itself long was a source of coal, clay and limestone. In fact, in times past it was common for individuals to open and dig their own "drift mines" to supplement their personal incomes. Several limestone quarries in the general area still are in operation today.

In 1948, the state purchased the land from local farmers and homesteaders, erected the dam which created the lake and dedicated Argyle Lake State Park to the citizens of Illinois.

Today, whether your preference is viewing wildflowers and fresh foliage in the spring, picnicking, fishing and boating in the summer, appreciating the brilliant fall colors or sledding and snowmobiling in the winter, Argyle Lake State Park is a great place to visit.

The concession stand is located near the boat dock. There are boat rentals, bait, firewood, snacks and ice for sale. The hours for the bait shop are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days a week.

For longer visits, the park contains 86 Class A campsites, 24 Class B, 18 Class C, sites, featuring vehicle access and restrooms, and 31 Class D (primitive) sites. Electrical hookups, a disposal station and restrooms with showers are also available.