Lake Lou Yaeger is the centerpiece of Litchfield's robust outdoor recreation offerings.

The 1,357-acre, 5.5-mile-long lake is great for hosting boating and fishing tournaments, and the surrounding 4,641 acres are great for hiking, biking and equestrian use.

The lake is host to the annual TriathLou that brings hundreds of people to the area from all over the country.

The Milnot Beach area includes picnic areas, playgrounds and camping sites. Explore hiking and biking trails, then cool off with a swim at the lake beach.

The Route 66 Hike & Bike Trail offers 6.6 miles of unpaved, marked trails for hiking or biking, complete with bike repair stations along the trail.

Across the lake from the main recreation area is the Shoal Creek Conservation Area that offers two easy hiking trails. As you walk through native prairie lands, shoreline woods and enjoy magnificent views of the lake, watch for the wide variety of butterflies, birds and plants that visit this beautiful habitat.