Lake County, Illinois
Lake County is a unique mix of ritzy North Shore suburbs and blue-collar towns. It stretches along Lake Michigan, just north of Chicago. Waukegan is the biggest city, a little rough around the edges but with some lakefront charm. Then you’ve got places like Lake Forest, where the houses look like museums.
Six Flags Great America is a major draw in the summer. You can hear the screams from the roller coasters for miles. Lake Michigan is also the star here, with some fantastic beaches if you know where to look. Traffic can be a nightmare, especially for commuters heading into the city.
The Naval Station brings in people from all over. There’s also more diversity than you might expect, especially in Waukegan and North Chicago. It’s expensive to live here, but many people say the schools are worth it. On a clear day, you can even see the Chicago skyline from the right spots along the shore.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Lake County |
| County Seat | Waukegan |
| Etymology | Named after Lake Michigan, which borders the county |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Waukegan, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Libertyville, Mundelein, Gurnee, Buffalo Grove (part), Round Lake, Grayslake, Lake Zurich, Antioch, Deerfield, Zion, and various other communities. |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 94, U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 41, Illinois Route 22, Illinois Route 21, Illinois Route 83, Illinois Route 60 |
| FIPS Code | 17-097 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,368 square miles (land: 444 sq mi, water: 924 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Kenosha County, Wisconsin (North), Cook County (South), McHenry County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 725,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 42.3689° N, 87.8278° W |
| Major Landmarks | Six Flags Great America, Illinois Beach State Park, Gurnee Mills, Ravinia Festival, Great Lakes Naval Station, Lake County Forest Preserves, Chicago Botanic Garden |
PHYSICAL MAP
Lake County Topographic Map
While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Lake County Satellite Map
While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.
OUTLINE MAP
Lake County Blank Map
While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.
Illinois County Maps
Illinois County Map
Ready to explore Illinois? Discover counties full of surprises, from the energy of Chicago and Cook County to the quiet beauty of Shawnee National Forest. Explore rich history, farmland, natural scenery, and small-town charm with our Illinois county map. Find your next adventure and discover all that Illinois has to offer.