Holiday Shores, IL

County: Madison

History

Holiday Shores, Illinois

Holiday Shores, Illinois is a small community located in Jersey County, in the southwestern part of the state. The history of Holiday Shores dates back to the 1960s when it was developed as a recreational community.

In the mid-1960s, a group of St. Louis business partners purchased about 1,400 acres of land along the eastern shore of Lake Catatoga, which was previously farmland. They envisioned creating a vacation destination where families could enjoy the beauty of nature and various outdoor activities.

The development of Holiday Shores began with the construction of a dam on Wood River Creek to create a 425-acre lake. This lake became the centerpiece of the community, offering residents and visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

The founders of Holiday Shores aimed to create an inclusive community that provided an array of amenities for its residents. Over the next several years, they built a clubhouse, picnic areas, beaches, tennis courts, and a marina. In addition, they developed over 1,500 home sites, making it a residential haven for people seeking a vacation home or a permanent residence close to nature.

As the community grew, more services and facilities were added, including a public golf course, playgrounds, and campgrounds. Today, Holiday Shores remains a popular retreat for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing environment. Its proximity to the larger cities of St. Louis, Missouri and Alton, Illinois, make it an attractive destination for both weekend getaways and year-round living.

Throughout its history, Holiday Shores has evolved and adapted to the changing needs and desires of its residents. It continues to foster a strong sense of community through various social events and recreational activities. The scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding nature, combined with the community's amenities, have made it a beloved destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Attractions

Holiday Shores Beach Club

Holiday Shores, IL is a small, unincorporated community located in Madison County, Illinois. While it is primarily a residential area, there are a few attractions and activities in and around Holiday Shores. Here are some of them:

Holiday Shores Beach Club

The community has its own private beach club, which offers residents access to a sandy beach, swimming, fishing, and boating on the lake.

Waters Edge Golf Course

Located nearby in Belleville, IL, Waters Edge Golf Course is a public 18-hole golf course that provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area

Situated south of Holiday Shores, Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area offers outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking trails, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

This historic site, located in nearby Hartford, IL, commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It includes a visitor center, museum, and interpretive trails.

Alton, IL

Holiday Shores is in close proximity to Alton, a historic town along the Mississippi River. Alton offers attractions such as the Alton Museum of History and Art, the Great Rivers Museum, and the Piasa Bird mural.

Raging Rivers Waterpark

Situated in Grafton, IL, just a short drive from Holiday Shores, Raging Rivers Waterpark is a popular summer destination featuring water slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and other water attractions.

Pere Marquette State Park

Located west of Holiday Shores near Grafton, Pere Marquette State Park is the largest state park in Illinois. It offers hiking and biking trails, picnicking, fishing, camping, and beautiful scenic views.

Please note that some attractions may have modified hours or operations due to COVID-19, so it's essential to check their websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before visiting.

Climate

Holiday Shores, Illinois is located in Madison County, in the southern part of the state. The climate in Holiday Shores is classified as humid subtropical, with hot, muggy summers and cold winters.

Summers in Holiday Shores are typically hot and humid, with temperatures averaging in the mid to high 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are not uncommon, and temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s (above 35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be quite high, making the heat feel even more intense. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months.

Winters in Holiday Shores are cold, with temperatures averaging in the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 1 degree Celsius). Snowfall is relatively common, and the area experiences several snowstorms throughout the winter. However, the snow usually does not stay on the ground for long periods, as temperatures can fluctuate between freezing and above freezing during the winter months.

Spring and fall in Holiday Shores are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures. Spring is typically wet with occasional thunderstorms, while fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.

Overall, Holiday Shores experiences four distinct seasons with hot and humid summers, cold winters with snow, and mild transitional seasons.

Neighborhoods

Holiday Shores is a small community located in Madison County, Illinois. While it is primarily known for its lake and recreational activities, there are several neighborhoods within it that offer different features and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Holiday Shores:

Main Lake

This is the central neighborhood in Holiday Shores, situated around the main lake. Many residents here enjoy waterfront properties, offering stunning lake views and easy access for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The Main Lake neighborhood also includes a marina and boat ramp.

North Shore

Located on the northern part of Holiday Shores, North Shore offers a mix of lakefront and non-lakefront properties. The neighborhood is known for its calm and serene environment, perfect for those seeking a peaceful setting. Residents here can also enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature trails in the nearby Woodlands Park.

Golf Course Estates

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is situated around the Holiday Shores Golf Club. It primarily consists of homes overlooking the golf course, providing a scenic and lush living environment. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of being able to play their favorite sport just steps away from home.

West Holiday Shores

This neighborhood is located on the western side of Holiday Shores and offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. While it is further away from the main lake, West Holiday Shores is still within proximity to the community's various amenities, including parks, picnic areas, and a clubhouse.

East Holiday Shores

Situated on the eastern side of the community, East Holiday Shores is known for its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere. It features diverse housing options, including spacious lots and smaller, more affordable homes. Residents here have easy access to the lake, community parks, and recreational facilities.

Overall, Holiday Shores offers a range of neighborhoods to cater to diverse preferences, whether it be waterfront living, golf course views, affordability, or a family-oriented environment.

Nearby Cities