Lake Charles FAQ
Who owns Lake Charles?
Lake Charles is owned by the Oakwood Homeowners Association, which is made up of the owners of the homes in Oakwood. Lake Charles is maintained by the Lake Management Committee, a group of dedicated volunteers.
Why does Lake Charles exist?
Lake Charles is a 15 acre lake that serves as the primary water retention facility for Oakwood storm sewers and for some areas surrounding Oakwood. During heavy rains, water collects in our lake then exits via an overflow dam to Salt Creek.
Who may use Lake Charles?
All residents of Oakwood may use Lake Charles. The lake is fishable from both boats and from the eastern shore line. The Catch and Release policy is enforced. Members who do not live adjacent to the lake may launch and tie up their boats at designated locations on the Eastern Shoreline, as long as boat tags have been purchased.
Do I have to register my boat if I put it on Lake Charles?
Residents on the lake are encouraged to register their boats and get a permit so that it can be identified and returned if it gets loose. Boats must also be registered to participate in the Lock & Dock program. Click here for more information.
May I swim in Lake Charles?
Swimming is not permitted at Westman Beach. The Oakwood Homeowners Association does not have the proper facilities or supervision to permit swimming. In addition, the water quality is not monitored continuously. Homeowners whose property borders Lake Charles swim at their own risk and without the recommendation of the Homeowners Association. Be aware that the Homeowners Association is not liable for actions that are undertaken without recommendation.
May I use Westman Beach?
Yes. Westman Beach is part of the common area owned and maintained by the Oakwood Homeowners Association. Although swimming is not permitted, a nice sandy beach is a fun place for children to play. Benches are also available for a rest while you view the Lake.
Is fishing allowed in Lake Charles?
Fishing is allowed from both boats and the shoreline, provided fisherman follow a Catch and Release policy. Residents who do not live on the lake may fish off the fishing piers on the Eastern Shoreline. Since Lake Charles is a private lake, a Illinois fishing license is not required for residents.
May I Add Plants or Fish to the Lake?
No plants or animals can be added to the lake.
What kind of watercraft may I use on Lake Charles?
Residents may use non-motorized watercraft on Lake Charles; examples include kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, row boats, Again, only members of Oakwood and their guests may use the lake. Proof of residency is required and may be requested.
Lake Charles is owned by the Oakwood Homeowners Association, which is made up of the owners of the homes in Oakwood. Lake Charles is maintained by the Lake Management Committee, a group of dedicated volunteers.
Why does Lake Charles exist?
Lake Charles is a 15 acre lake that serves as the primary water retention facility for Oakwood storm sewers and for some areas surrounding Oakwood. During heavy rains, water collects in our lake then exits via an overflow dam to Salt Creek.
Who may use Lake Charles?
All residents of Oakwood may use Lake Charles. The lake is fishable from both boats and from the eastern shore line. The Catch and Release policy is enforced. Members who do not live adjacent to the lake may launch and tie up their boats at designated locations on the Eastern Shoreline, as long as boat tags have been purchased.
Do I have to register my boat if I put it on Lake Charles?
Residents on the lake are encouraged to register their boats and get a permit so that it can be identified and returned if it gets loose. Boats must also be registered to participate in the Lock & Dock program. Click here for more information.
May I swim in Lake Charles?
Swimming is not permitted at Westman Beach. The Oakwood Homeowners Association does not have the proper facilities or supervision to permit swimming. In addition, the water quality is not monitored continuously. Homeowners whose property borders Lake Charles swim at their own risk and without the recommendation of the Homeowners Association. Be aware that the Homeowners Association is not liable for actions that are undertaken without recommendation.
May I use Westman Beach?
Yes. Westman Beach is part of the common area owned and maintained by the Oakwood Homeowners Association. Although swimming is not permitted, a nice sandy beach is a fun place for children to play. Benches are also available for a rest while you view the Lake.
Is fishing allowed in Lake Charles?
Fishing is allowed from both boats and the shoreline, provided fisherman follow a Catch and Release policy. Residents who do not live on the lake may fish off the fishing piers on the Eastern Shoreline. Since Lake Charles is a private lake, a Illinois fishing license is not required for residents.
May I Add Plants or Fish to the Lake?
No plants or animals can be added to the lake.
What kind of watercraft may I use on Lake Charles?
Residents may use non-motorized watercraft on Lake Charles; examples include kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, row boats, Again, only members of Oakwood and their guests may use the lake. Proof of residency is required and may be requested.
Eastern Shore Line Credit: Salvatore Trupia
Where and what is the Eastern Shoreline?
The Eastern shoreline is the wooded area on the east side of Lake Charles. This section of the shoreline is open to all Oakwood residents. Enter the Shoreline via a path at the end of Baltimore Avenue. A wooded path, flowers, and bushes make this a nice place to walk or to sit and enjoy Lake Charles.
The Eastern shoreline is the wooded area on the east side of Lake Charles. This section of the shoreline is open to all Oakwood residents. Enter the Shoreline via a path at the end of Baltimore Avenue. A wooded path, flowers, and bushes make this a nice place to walk or to sit and enjoy Lake Charles.
