About
Recreational spot with a massive natural lake popular for fishing, boating, picnicking & hunting.
Reviews lean positive — 4.5 out of 5 across 663 Google reviews.
It keeps the same hours every day — 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM — which makes planning simple. And if it does not suit, 2 more state parks in Chicago are listed further down this page.
The quick take
Drawn from this listing's ratings, amenities, hours and how it stacks up against other state parks in Chicago.
What works
Solid local standing
A 4.5 average from 663 reviews puts it comfortably above the middle of the pack.
Open every day
The same hours all week (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM), so there is no schedule to memorise.
Dogs welcome
Listed as dog-friendly — bring the leash and waste bags anyway.
Works with kids
Flagged as family-friendly, which usually means room to run and somewhere for the adults to sit.
An official site to check first
Whoever runs this state park posts schedules, closures and events there.
Worth knowing first
Parking is undocumented
No lot or street parking is recorded against this listing. Assume you are hunting for a kerbside spot.
A narrow window to fit it in
Open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM and no longer — an evening visit is out.
Planning a visit
General guidance for state parks, adjusted for what this listing records.
What to expect
State-managed land that usually folds trails, picnic areas and some kind of water access into one place.
A good fit for day-trippers who want variety without a long drive.
When to go
Weekdays skip the day-use queue. Check the park website for seasonal closures. The gates are open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
What to bring
- Cash or card for day-use fees
- Picnic supplies
- Bug spray in warm months
- Leash and waste bags
Hours
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Amenities
Common questions about William W. Powers State Recreation Area
What is William W. Powers State Recreation Area?
Recreational spot with a massive natural lake popular for fishing, boating, picnicking & hunting. It is a state park in Chicago, IL, at 12949 S Avenue O.
What are the opening hours at William W. Powers State Recreation Area?
William W. Powers State Recreation Area is open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM every day of the week.
Are dogs allowed at William W. Powers State Recreation Area?
Yes — William W. Powers State Recreation Area is listed as dog-friendly. Leash rules still vary from area to area, so watch for posted signs.
Is there parking at William W. Powers State Recreation Area?
No parking is recorded for William W. Powers State Recreation Area. Expect to look for street parking nearby.
Is William W. Powers State Recreation Area good for kids?
Yes — William W. Powers State Recreation Area is flagged as family-friendly.
How is William W. Powers State Recreation Area rated?
William W. Powers State Recreation Area holds 4.5 out of 5 stars from 663 Google reviews.
What else is nearby?
Chicago has 2 other state parks listed on AllParx, including Brezina Woods and N Shore Skate Park.
