Water levels at Lake Storey have officially returned to normal, and all seasonal recreational amenities are now fully open for the summer.
The City of Galesburg announced Thursday that swimming at Lake Storey Beach, boat rentals, and concessions are open for the season. The lake had been kept at a lower level than usual this spring to accommodate construction of a multi-use walking trail expansion. The contractor reached the required elevation ahead of the expected June 1 deadline, and recent rainfall helped complete the refill.
Beach and boat rental hours
Lake Storey Beach, located at 1572 Machen Drive, is an unguarded facility, open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day. Swimming is permitted in designated roped-off areas, and locker room facilities are available during beach hours.
Boat rentals and concessions are available daily from noon to 7 p.m.
Additional details are available on the City of Galesburg website.
Trail project update
Construction on the Lake Storey trail expansion continues and is running slightly ahead of schedule. Crews are currently focused on installing drainage systems, including box culverts and piping, and constructing embankment areas. Once that work is complete, construction will shift to the path along South Lake Storey Road, starting from the west end near the intersection with West Lake Storey Road.
The project, funded by two Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grants from the Illinois Department of Transportation, will complete a full loop around Lake Storey by 2027. The south side trail is expected to be completed in 2026, with the east side portion following in 2027.
When finished, the 10-foot-wide paved path will connect north-side amenities — including the beach, boat launches, soccer fields, and hiking trails — with south-side facilities including Allison Campground and Lakeside Water Park. The trail will also improve pedestrian and bike access to Carl Sandburg College.
