Lake Sara

A quiet cove at dawn, where the only sound is the whir of a casting reel and the gentle splash of the fly hitting the water’s surface...that’s Lake Sara. A sunny afternoon slalom skiing behind a powerboat or running along the beach...that’s Lake Sara. A family picnic in the grass at water’s edge or a family reunion, with fried chicken and the works, under one of the pavilions...that’s Lake Sara.
Lake Sara is an 800-acre recreational lake nestled into a wooded shoreline, encircled by a winding road. Spend a day, a week, or a season on the shores of Lake Sara.
Want to spend some time on dry land? Cardinal and Fore-Way golf courses are just minutes away. Both feature newly laid holes, driving ranges and club houses.
Planning a getaway? Anthony Acres Resort is an attractive complex of new and remodeled cabins with a boat dock and beach. Take a respite from water sports for a game of beach volleyball or horseshoes.
Lake Sara has something for everyone, in every season of the year.
TREC Recreational Trail
The TREC Recreational Trail provides a great place for visitors to exercise, whether it is riding bikes, roller blading, or walking. The first phase of the trail was completed in 2010. Additional phases are planned in the future to create a county-wide, multi-use trail system in the community.
Trail Map
Anthony Acres Resort
Enjoy picturesque views of Lake Sara from the comfort of your lodgings or while cruising the lake in your boat or a rented pontoon or boat.
Amenities are many, including grills for cooking your fresh catch and private decks. Each cabin features an efficiency kitchen - in case you wish to cook indoors.
Anthony Acres Resort is just five minutes from Effingham’s many fine restaurants and entertainment venues.
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Camp Lakewood
1217 W. Rickelman Ave. - 217-342-6233
This 19-acre RV campground features 75 wooded campsites and two cottages on the north shore of Lake Pauline. Enjoy fishing (no license needed) and boating on this 33-acre private, stocked lake.
Sites offer water, sewer, electricity, cable TV and internet access. Parking areas provide long, level pull-through convenience. 30/50 amp service is also available. Clubhouse. High-speed wireless internet.
One-bedroom cottage or two-bedroom cottage is available. Both of the cottages are fully self-contained and completely furnished, including dishes and linens. All guests need to bring are food and clothing.
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The Marina @ Lake Sara
8724 E. Marine Drive - 217-868-2791
The Marina @ Lake Sara, located just a few miles norhwest of Effingham, offers a wide variety of activities, including boat and epuipment rentals. Whether guests are looking to relax on a pontoon boat for the day or take the kids tubing for a few hours, The Marina @ Lake Sara has a package to accommodate. Then, complete the day of soaking in the sun with an outdoor concert at The Stage @ Lake Sara, which will have scheduled shows beginning June 4.
The Marina @ Lake Sara is open April 17 to Oct. 31 from 8 am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday with additional hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day from noon to 8pm Tuesday to Friday. For more information or for a schedule of events, contact The Marina @ Lake Sara at 217-868-2791
Boat Dockers
This full-service marina with a restaurant is located at Lake Sara and has a boat ramp, gas, and boat rental slips. The restaurant is open April through September. For more information, call 217-868-9598.
Local Gyms
Drave Trim Tone N' Tan
1707 W. Avenue of Mid America
217-347-0251
Get-Fit Family Fitness
E. Rickleman Avenue
217-342-3481
The Zone
206 W. Jefferson Avenue
217-347-2639
The Zone 2
204 W. Jefferson Avenue
217-347-2625