Lough Gill is a freshwater lake in County Sligo, approximately 8 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide, draining westward into the River Garavogue near Sligo town. The lake holds around 20 small islands, the most famous being the Lake Isle of Innisfree, immortalised by poet W.B. Yeats. Church Island, the largest at roughly 40 acres, contains medieval ruins erected under the patronage of the O'Rourke rulers of Breifne and was historically a centre for religious and poetic communities. Parke's Castle, a restored 17th-century stronghold, sits on the lake's shores and adds further historical character to the surroundings. The lake is designated a Special Area of Conservation, supporting rare and protected plant and animal species.

Several public access points exist around the lake, including Inishfree Pier on the south shore, Shriff Bay, Aughamore, Hazelwood Bay, and a pier near the outflow of the Garavogue River. Holywell Pier on the western shore is also used as a launch point. Parking is available at these locations.

Paddlers should be aware that water temperatures can be extremely cold, the lakebed is rocky underfoot in shallower areas, there are no lifeguards, and water conditions can be unpredictable. The lake hosts brown trout and salmon, and boat traffic from guided tour vessels operating out of Sligo town should be anticipated.

Guided kayak tours are available through Sligo Kayak Tours, which operates from Waterglades on the lake's western shore, adjacent to Healy Plants Garden Centre. Stand-up paddleboarding tours are also offered on the lake. The surrounding landscape includes old-growth forest along the shoreline, with Hazelwood Forest located at Half Moon Bay approximately 5 kilometres outside Sligo town offering lakeside trails. The lake is accessible from Sligo town in roughly 15 minutes via the R286, making it a practical day-trip destination.