FAQ, Petite Lake Resort

Everything You Need to Know Before Booking

Everything you need to know before booking Petite Lake Resort on the Chain O' Lakes.

• How far is Petite Lake Resort from Chicago?

  Petite Lake Resort is approximately 45 minutes from Chicago O'Hare International Airport via I-94 North. From the Chicago Loop, the drive is approximately 55 minutes in normal traffic. Guests from the North Shore (Evanston, Waukegan, Libertyville) typically arrive in 30–40 minutes.
• What lake is Petite Lake Resort on?

  Petite Lake Resort sits on Petite Lake, one of the lakes in the Chain O' Lakes system in Lake County, Illinois. The Chain O' Lakes is a connected network of 15 lakes and rivers navigable from Petite Lake, including Fox Lake, Grass Lake, and Pistakee Lake.
• Is Petite Lake Resort dog friendly?

  Yes. Petite Lake Resort welcomes well-behaved dogs of all sizes with prior notice. The property has lake swimming access and is within 20 minutes of dog-friendly trails at Chain O' Lakes State Park. Note that our rental homes do not have fenced yards. Gear storage is available on-site for outdoor equipment. A pet fee applies, confirm current fee at booking. See the dog-friendly rentals page for full policy details.
• How many guests can Petite Lake Resort accommodate?

  Petite Lake Resort accommodates up to 33 guests across 5 rental homes, the Hampton Lake House (sleeps 10), Beachfront Studio (sleeps 2), Nautical Cottage (sleeps 3), Hilltop Rental Home (sleeps 8), and Key House (sleeps 10). Groups can book the Hampton Combo (units 1+1B, 11 guests) or the full resort buyout for all 33. See group bookings for details.
• Is there a private boat launch?

  Yes. Petite Lake Resort has a private concrete boat launch with trailer parking for up to 3 rigs. There are no marina fees. The launch provides direct access to Petite Lake and the broader Chain O' Lakes system. Boats up to approximately 24 feet can typically use the launch. Full launch specifications are on the boat launch page.
• Is the Nordic cedar sauna available year-round?

  Yes. The 6-person Lakeview Nordic cedar sauna at Petite Lake Resort is available year-round, including winter. In winter months, guests use the sauna-to-lake cold plunge ritual, 160°F sauna followed by a plunge at the dock or lake edge. The sauna accommodates up to 6 people. See the sauna page for full details.
• Can I rent the entire resort?

  Yes. The full resort buyout reserves all 5 rental homes for one group, up to 33 guests total. This includes exclusive use of the sandy beach, 6-person Nordic cedar sauna, private boat launch, fire pit, kayaks, and all shared amenities. Contact via the booking platforms for group pricing. See group bookings for more information.
• What is included with every rental home stay?

  Every rental home at Petite Lake Resort includes access to the private sandy beach, 6-person Nordic cedar sauna, shared fishing piers, complimentary kayaks and paddle boards, beach loungers, fire pit, outdoor lawn games, and high-speed fiber Wi-Fi. Beach-level bathrooms and showers are available at the swim area. The private boat launch and trailer parking are also available to all guests. See all rental listings for individual unit details.
• Are beach bonfires allowed?

  Beach bonfires are not permitted at Petite Lake Resort. The lakeside fire pit areas are available for use with provided firewood. Please use only the designated fire pit areas and follow all posted fire safety guidelines.
• Do the rental homes have fenced yards?

  Our rental homes do not have fenced yards. However, gear storage is available on-site for bikes, kayaks, and outdoor equipment. Well-behaved dogs are welcome with prior notice. The property has direct lake access and is close to dog-friendly trails.
• Is there a shared RV park on the property?

  Yes. Petite Lake Resort shares the property with a small, well-kept 13-pad RV park. Our RV neighbors are friendly, seasoned lake regulars who add to the laid-back lake community vibe rather than detract from it.
• Are there bathrooms and showers at the beach?

  Yes. Beach-level bathrooms and showers are available at the swim area, convenient after a swim or sauna session.

Still Have Questions?

Browse detailed pages for specific topics, or reach out directly through the booking platforms.