Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, State recreation area in Stephenson County, Illinois.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area is a protected space in Illinois featuring a 40-acre lake ringed with trees and natural shoreline. The park encompasses around 715 acres where visitors can fish, boat, swim, and explore hiking trails.
The site witnessed key battles during the Black Hawk War before settlers arrived in the region. The state started acquiring land in 1948 and officially opened the lake to the public in 1958.
Three significant engagements of the Black Hawk War occurred near the current park location, where William Waddams later established the first settlement in Stephenson County.
The park provides accommodation year-round including RV sites with electrical hookups, tent camping, and designated equestrian areas. Youth groups can find specific facilities designed for organized visits.
The name came from a contest held by the Stephenson County Sportsman's Club that merged the nearby town of Lena with the Latin word for water. This blend of local geography and classical language roots reflects the region's character.
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