Lake Vermilion is a 1000-acre lake located in Danville. It is a water supply lake and is owned by Aqua Illinois Inc. The Vermilion County Conservation District (V.C.C.D.) maintains the lease on the lake and manages the recreational activities.
It is one of Illinois' most heavily stocked lakes for fishing. A cooperative between the V.C.C.D. and Aqua Illinois, Inc. add three thousand eight-inch large mouth bass per year. Tiger muskies are currently approaching forty inches long. Channel catfish, crappie and walleye are also taken.
Lake Vermilion Park
The park consists of a boat ramp, dock complex, View at Lake Vermilion concession building, maintenance building, playground and an open shelter (Songer Pavilion). The shelter may be reserved by calling 217-442-1691.
The lake is a "high use" area on summer weekends with power boating (unlimited HP), jet skiing and water skiing. Many fishing tournaments are also held here. The north end of the lake has a no-wake area. Here, wildlife are observed including a heron rookery, the river otter (released in 1996 & 1997) and an eagle nest. The north end is also a site for waterfowl hunting.
The park is open year round, twenty-four hours per day. Boat decals for Lake Vermilion are required. For fee structure, call 217-442-1691. Daily passes are also available.