Lake Holiday, IL
County: LaSalle
History
Lake Holiday is a private community located in the townships of Somonauk and Northville, in LaSalle County, Illinois. The history of Lake Holiday began in the mid-1960s when a man named Carl Schramm came up with the idea of creating a recreational lake community in the area.
Schramm, a real estate developer from Joliet, saw the potential of the land surrounding Somonauk Creek, known as the Kishwaukee River Valley. He envisioned a community where families could come together to enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful and natural setting.
In 1966, Schramm formed the Lake Holiday Development Corporation and began work on the project. The construction of a dam on Somonauk Creek was the first step in creating Lake Holiday. This dam created a reservoir that covered 328 acres and had a shoreline of nearly 14 miles.
The next phase of development involved the creation of lots and the installation of infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and a community water system. Construction of the first houses and amenities began in the early 1970s.
Throughout the years, Lake Holiday has continued to grow and develop. Additional lots were platted, parks and common areas were established, and amenities such as a swimming pool, clubhouse, and beach were added to enhance the community's appeal.
Today, Lake Holiday is a thriving private community with over 1,300 properties and a population of approximately 3,000 residents. It is governed by a homeowners association, which ensures that the community's rules and regulations are followed, and also oversees the maintenance and management of common areas and amenities.
The lake itself remains the centerpiece of the community, offering residents the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The surrounding natural beauty of the Kishwaukee River Valley adds to the appeal of Lake Holiday, making it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic place to call home.
Attractions
Lake Holiday is a private community located in LaSalle County, Illinois. While it is primarily known as a residential area and a recreational community around Lake Holiday, there are a few attractions nearby that visitors can explore. Here are some of the attractions in and around Lake Holiday, IL:
Matthiessen State Park
Located about 15 miles away from Lake Holiday, Matthiessen State Park offers beautiful hiking trails, canyons, waterfalls, and scenic views. It is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting.
Starved Rock State Park
One of the most popular state parks in Illinois, Starved Rock State Park is approximately 17 miles from Lake Holiday. It features towering sandstone bluffs, waterfalls, and over 13 miles of hiking trails. The park offers breathtaking views of the Illinois River and is a great spot for nature lovers.
Illinois Waterway Visitor Center
Situated in Ottawa, which is around 12 miles away, the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center provides visitors with information about the Illinois River and its significance to the region's transportation and industry. It offers interactive exhibits, a viewing deck, and educational programs for all ages.
Reddick Mansion
Located in Ottawa, the Reddick Mansion is a historic 19th-century mansion that offers guided tours. Visitors can explore the elegant rooms and learn about the history of the mansion and its former residents.
The Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum
This museum is located in Ottawa and showcases the history of the city and the scouting movement. It displays various artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits related to Ottawa's past, including its Native American heritage, the 19th-century industries, and the scouting activities.
The Wine Country Trail
Wine enthusiasts can visit the various wineries and vineyards located in the nearby Illinois River Valley. The Wine Country Trail offers tastings, tours, and a chance to explore different wineries and sample their products.
Please note that Lake Holiday, IL itself is a private community focused on boating, fishing, and recreational activities centered around the lake. Many of the attractions mentioned are located nearby, within a short drive from the Lake Holiday area.
Climate
Lake Holiday, IL experiences a humid continental climate. It typically has four distinct seasons: a cold winter, a mild spring, a hot and humid summer, and a cool fall.
Winter in Lake Holiday is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, and the area can experience occasional winter storms. Average temperatures in January, the coldest month, range from the mid-teens°F to the low-30s°F (-9°C to -1°C).
Spring in Lake Holiday is generally mild, with temperatures starting to warm up. March and April bring average temperatures in the low-30s°F to mid-50s°F (-1°C to 13°C), transitioning into the 60s°F (15-20°C) by May.
Summer is typically hot and humid in Lake Holiday. The average temperatures in June, July, and August range from the mid-70s°F to low-80s°F (24-28°C). Heatwaves can occur, pushing temperatures into the 90s°F (32-35°C) or even higher.
Fall in Lake Holiday brings cooler temperatures and the changing colors of autumn. September sees average temperatures in the mid-70s°F (24°C) and gradually cools down to the mid-40s°F (7°C) in November.
Lake Holiday, IL also experiences rainfall throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation in the summer months. It is not uncommon to have thunderstorms during the warmer months, with occasional heavy rain and the possibility of severe weather.
Overall, Lake Holiday has a diverse climate that transitions through the different seasons, offering a range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Lake Holiday is a private lake community located in LaSalle County, Illinois. The community is made up of several different neighborhoods, each offering its own unique features and amenities. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Lake Holiday:
Lakefront
This neighborhood consists of homes directly on the lakefront, offering beautiful views and easy access to the water. Many of these properties have private docks, making them ideal for boating and water activities.
Wooded
The Wooded neighborhood is characterized by its peaceful and serene surroundings. It is filled with densely wooded areas, providing a more secluded and private setting for residents.
Golf Course
Lake Holiday also features its own golf course, and the Golf Course neighborhood is where you'll find homes situated around the fairways. This neighborhood is popular among golf enthusiasts who enjoy having easy access to the course.
Beachfront
The Beachfront neighborhood is located near the community's main beach area. Residents in this area have convenient access to the sandy shores, picnic areas, and recreational facilities provided by Lake Holiday.
Estate
The Estate neighborhood is home to larger, upscale properties. These homes typically have more extensive lots and offer luxury amenities such as swimming pools, private tennis courts, and other high-end features.
Hillside
The Hillside neighborhood is situated on elevated ground, providing breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area. It offers a mix of homes, some of which are perched on hillsides, adding to the neighborhood's unique charm.
Each neighborhood within Lake Holiday has its own homeowners association, which manages and maintains the community's amenities and ensures the adherence to the community's rules and regulations. These neighborhoods collectively contribute to the diverse residential landscape of Lake Holiday, offering something for everyone's preferences and lifestyles.