Lake Bloomington is a 635-acre reservoir located approximately 15 miles north of Bloomington in McLean County, Illinois. Constructed in 1929 by damming Money Creek, the lake serves as a primary water supply for the City of Bloomington while also providing recreational opportunities including paddling. The lake features 18.5 miles of shoreline with a maximum depth of 36 feet and an average depth of 14.5 feet.

Access for paddling is available at the public boat ramp in Hubbard Park, reached via County Road 1750 East to Park View Lane. The lake is owned and operated by the City of Bloomington's Water Department, which requires boat registration permits for all watercraft including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Paddlers should be aware that motorized boats up to 40 horsepower are permitted on the lake, though most areas outside the large basins are designated as "no wake zones" where motors must operate at idle speed. These narrower zones offer more protected paddling conditions.

The lake's primary tributaries are Money Creek and Hickory Creek, which flow into the reservoir. The shoreline consists of a mix of developed residential areas with seawalls along leased lots and natural wooded sections managed by the city. Three youth camps operate on the property: East Bay Camp, Timber Pointe Outdoor Center (formerly a Boy Scout camp), and Camp Peairs. These facilities add to the forested character of portions of the shoreline.

Water levels at Lake Bloomington can fluctuate significantly due to seasonal water usage and recharge cycles, which paddlers should consider when planning trips. The lake has experienced substantial sedimentation since construction, with approximately one-third of its original volume lost to sediment accumulation. This has created shallower conditions in some tributary arms that may affect navigation during lower water periods.

Current lake conditions, water levels, and any access restrictions can be verified through the City of Bloomington Water Department or posted notices at the boat ramp facility.