Lake Calumet is an industrial waterway located on the southeast side of Chicago, Illinois. This lake offers a unique urban paddling experience, but is recommended only for expert paddlers due to heavy commercial traffic. Private boats are allowed, and gas-powered motors are permitted.

Access to Lake Calumet is limited. The primary put-in is at Beaubien Woods Forest Preserve, south of 130th Street. Take-out is at the Calumet Park Boat Launch, approximately 0.5 miles south of where the river meets Lake Michigan.

Major hazards include industrial traffic, concrete and steel vertical bulkhead walls, large motor craft, and barge traffic. Paddlers must exercise extreme caution and be prepared to handle boat wakes. The O'Brien Locks at 134th Street present an additional navigational challenge.

Notable sights include views of a massive industrial complex with cranes, factories, conveyor belts, and ocean-going ships. The Chicago Skyway Bridge spans the waterway about 125 feet overhead. Paddlers can observe monumental relics of the area's industrial past.

The paddling experience is characterized by an urban, working waterfront atmosphere. While most paddlers seek natural settings, Lake Calumet provides a stark contrast with its industrial landscape. The 11-mile stretch from Beaubien Woods to Calumet Park offers constantly changing scenery.

Wildlife in the area includes various bird species. Fish present in the lake include largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, bullhead catfish, carp, and channel catfish.

Water quality may be a concern. There are reports of odors near the breakwaters due to fish remains left by birds. The lake's industrial history and ongoing commercial use likely impact water conditions.

Paddlers should check weather and wave conditions before entering the lake near the mouth of the river. Always wear a personal flotation device and be prepared for limited opportunities to exit the water along this route.