20 Attractions to Explore Near Ramsey Lake

Activities Around

Vector image of nearby attractions

Attractions & Activities Near You

Checkout attractions and activities near your current location

All attractions near Ramsey Lake

Little Brick House

Little Brick House

22.18km from Ramsey Lake

Little Brick House is a historical landmark that continues to amaze people. This impressive abode was built in 1837 by Samuel Moore and it served as a courthouse until 1981. The structure is made of Cream City brick, has rectangular windows, a frieze with raised lettering around the top and Greek Revival styling throughout. From its red double doors to the slanting roof and oculus window above them, Little Brick House stands proud not just as a testament to its own time but also to ours.

Vandalia State House Memorial

Vandalia State House Memorial

22.69km from Ramsey Lake

The Vandalia State House Memorial stands as a physical reminder of the important role played in the early growth and shaping of America. Built in 1836 and reconstructed in 1952, the monument is located on the original site of the first state capitol of Illinois. This historic location gives visitors to Fayette County unique insight into what life was like in the mid-1800s. The memorial is open to the public without charge and contains an 11-foot bronze statue of Shadrach Bond.

Thompson Mill Covered Bridge

Thompson Mill Covered Bridge

29.02km from Ramsey Lake

The Thompson Mill Covered Bridge stretches 90 feet across the Salt Fork Creek and is believed to be the oldest covered bridge remaining in the state of Illinois. Built in 1868 as a standard Burr Arch truss bridge, it has been strengthened and reinforced over time due to increased usage. Now possessed by the Shelby County Historical Society, visitors can stroll across this picture-perfect structure for free or simply marvel at its beauty from a distance.

Ballard Nature Center

Ballard Nature Center

38.48km from Ramsey Lake

Ballard Nature Center is a breathtaking outdoor oasis. Spanning hundreds of acres and boasting both native wildlife and flora, the Nature Center provides a serene atmosphere for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. Along with trails to hike, they also provide educational programs like “Moths of Summer” which explores the world of night-flying insects. The facility offers countless activities such as birding, horseback and wagon rides, fishing in stocked ponds.

Lake Shelbyville

Lake Shelbyville

41.11km from Ramsey Lake

Lake Shelbyville, Part of the Sangamon River and home to numerous marinas, boating opportunities are abundant. Fishermen from all over come to cast their lines into Lake Shelbyville knowing that large and small mouth bass, catfish, walleye, sauger and crappie await them. For those who prefer dry land activities there's hiking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds to enjoy. Visitors can stay in one of the many camping sites or cabins, while they explore all this beautiful area has to offer.

Hidden Springs State Forest

Hidden Springs State Forest

41.37km from Ramsey Lake

Hidden Springs State Forest is a wonderland of natural beauty. Located near the town of Shobonier, there are several hiking trails to explore and take in the majestic scenery. Visitors come from all around to marvel at wildflowers that bloom in abundance such as Black-Eyed Susans and Butterfly Weed. Many wildlife species inhabit this lush forest including white tailed deer, red tail hawks, cottontail rabbits, Eastern Gray Squirrels and numerous bird species.

Taylorville Park District

Taylorville Park District

44.34km from Ramsey Lake

The Taylorville Park District is full of wonderful opportunities for recreation and leisure activities. Boasting two lakes, fishing and skiing are popular activities in the area. Nature lovers can explore many different trails from hiking to bird-watching as well as hunting and kayaking. It also offers a wide variety of sports related programs such as soccer, basketball, tennis and swimming teams for people of all ages. There are also drop-in classes such as yoga, dance classes and martial arts.

Manners Park

Manners Park

44.37km from Ramsey Lake

Manners Park offers an idyllic getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It boasts lush open space that is perfect for enjoying a relaxing picnic or game of Frisbee with friends, families and pets alike. The park offers many amenities for visitors such as a large playground with plenty of attractions for the kids including swings, slides, climbers and a sand area. There are also several nature trails where you can enjoy walking and exploring.

Christian County Historical Society & Museum

The Christian County Historical Society & Museum is a wonderful place to explore the rich history of the county. Visitors are able to access artifacts, archives, and photographs related to Christian County's past. In addition, knowledgeable volunteers and staff can provide visitors with exciting stories about the county’s unique heritage. The museum also hosts regular events such as lectures and workshops which allow guests to delve deeper into their research.

Lake Sara

Lake Sara

50.96km from Ramsey Lake

Lake Sara is an idyllic place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Its gentle waves beckon visitors to take to their kayaks or paddle boards for a day spent exploring its many inlets, coves, and bays. Fishing and swimming are also popular pastimes at Lake Sara; the lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, crappie and numerous other fish species, while the sandy beaches offer a perfect spot to cool off.

Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum

The Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Effingham County. It features permanent exhibits showcasing artifacts from the area's Civil War soldiers, Native American history, and early settlers. There are also several rotating exhibits throughout the year that educate visitors about different topics related to Effingham County. Guests can explore these collections further in the museum's research library or on one of its guided tours.

Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

52.07km from Ramsey Lake

Eagle Creek State Recreation Area, is a breath-taking destination for the nature lover. Offering stunning views of the surrounding oak savannas, this tranquil space is known for its spacious campground and abundant wildlife. Fishing and boating opportunities abound on Eagle Creek Lake and there's plenty of hiking and equestrian trails to explore as well. Families with children can take advantage of the area's playgrounds while picnickers will appreciate its numerous pavilions and shelters.

Mother Jones Monument

Mother Jones Monument

52.71km from Ramsey Lake

The Mother Jones Monument, is a beautiful memorial dedicated to the life and legacy of Mary Harris Jones. Dedicated in 2003, it serves as a testament to the inspiration she provided to working class people from all around the world during her lifetime. The monument features a prominent bronze sculpture of Mother Jones atop of a granite pedestal which contains an inscription about her impact on workers' rights and labor reform.

Soulsby Service Station

Soulsby Service Station

53.09km from Ramsey Lake

In operation since 1931 it has been providing much needed service to generations of drivers in the area. Originally owned by cousins John "Jack" Soulsby and Robert Soulsby, it was noted for several firsts in the area including the installation of one of the first gasoline pumps as well as boasting the first electric sign advertising a gas station. Today it still provides fuel and services cars with certified mechanics on staff. With its vintage station charm and welcoming atmosphere.

Henrys Rabbit Ranch

Henrys Rabbit Ranch

58.84km from Ramsey Lake

Henry's Rabbit Ranch offers an enjoyable and unique experience for animal lovers of all ages. The ranch provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about and interact with a variety of animals, including rabbits, chickens, goats, pigs and horses. Visitors can book guided tours that include feeding the animals, exploring the grounds and getting up close with some of the ranch's more exotic residents. The ranch also offers hayrides throughout its 75 acres of land.

Sangchris Lake State Park

Sangchris Lake State Park

60.59km from Ramsey Lake

Sangchris Lake State Park provides a great opportunity for outdoor lovers to discover the beauty of nature. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, picnicking and even horseback riding. Water enthusiasts can make the most of their visit by taking part in water skiing or tubing on the park’s 1000-acre lake. Meanwhile, those looking for more thrilling activities can hike in the adjoining 4500-acres of open prairie and woodland peace lands.

Sangchris Lake

Sangchris Lake

61.35km from Ramsey Lake

Sangchris Lake, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning across 2,600 acres of the central Illinois, Sangchris Lake offers an abundance of recreational activities including swimming, fishing and boating. It is home to various species of aquatic wildlife and contains both warm water and cold water fisheries that house largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill and carp. This area also includes wildlife corridors for deer, raccoon and fox as well as forests filled with maple, hickory and oak trees.

Dam East Recreation Area - South Shore Park

The Dam East Recreation Area is the perfect place to go and have a great time outdoors. This recreation area boasts multiple activities including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, camping and much more. Visitors can explore the peaceful nature trails or go for a scenic ride on their bike around the lake. The lake also offers prime fishing opportunities with stocked seasonally with carp, bass, bluegill and catfish. Dam East also has an excellent campsite.

Carlyle Dam

Carlyle Dam

63.47km from Ramsey Lake

Built in 1973, Carlyle Dam is a 5,170-foot earthen dam on the Kaskaskia River in Clinton county, Illinois. It is one of the largest manmade lakes in the United States and is recognised as an excellent fishing spot. The lake formed by the reservoir has a surface area of 25,000 acres, making it ideal for outdoor recreation and wildlife habitat. Utilising the dam's hydroelectric power plant, Carlyle Lake Power Plant provides electric power to several cities in Illinois as well as Missouri.

Carlyle Lake

Carlyle Lake

63.47km from Ramsey Lake

Carlyle Lake, is an excellent place to explore the outdoors. It provides numerous recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming and boating. Visitors can also challenge their skills on the multi-use trails in the area while enjoying the breathtaking views of nature and learning more about the rich cultural history of the area. With a variety of campsites nearby, it is easy to spend a night or two at Carlyle Lake and its abundance of activities make it a perfect destination for families.

Map of attractions near Ramsey Lake

Know more about Ramsey Lake

Ramsey Lake

Ramsey Lake

Ramsey Lake, Ramsey Township, IL 62080, USA

Ramsey Lake is a stunning natural wonderland. Surrounded by stunning limestone rock formations, this lake is the perfect place to camp, fish, and hike. The lake area also has a wide array of wildlife including ducks, geese, reptiles and amphibians - making it ideal for nature-lovers. Whether swimming in the cool waters or strolling along the shore admiring the limestone formations, Ramsey Lake truly offers something for everyone looking to enjoy its unique beauty.