Wild Swim Atlas

    Gillson Beach

    Gillson Park, Wilmette, IllinoisLake on Lake MichiganSeasonal public swimming

    Directions
    Getting there

    Gillson Beach has a buoyed Lake Michigan swim area operated by the Wilmette Park District.

    Water
    Lake, Lake Michigan
    Entry
    Resident daily pass $11; non-resident daily pass $17., booking required in season
    Swim hours
    10 am–8 pm, Memorial Day–Labor Day.
    Facilities
    Beach House, restrooms, water fountains, showers
    Lifeguard
    Lifeguards are on duty during beach-season operational hours.
    Managed by
    Wilmette Park District

    When you can swim

    Open to swimmersClosed to swimmers

    Getting there

    Gillson Beach is near Wilmette, Illinois. Use the coordinates below in your maps app, and check road access with the land manager before you go.

    42.0809, -87.6877

    Get directions

    Rules to know before you go

    • Swim and wade only in the buoyed swim area.
    • Use US Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
    • Do not use boogie boards, rafts, noodles or inflatable flotation devices.
    • Do not swim after 8 pm.

    Swimming spots nearby

    All of Illinois
    Public swimming allowed1 mi

    North Beach

    Lake
    Lighthouse Beach, Evanston

    Questions about Gillson Beach

    Can you swim at Gillson Beach?

    Yes. Public swimming is allowed in the buoyed area during beach season with a valid pass or daily fee.

    Does it cost anything to swim at Gillson Beach?

    Resident daily pass $11; non-resident daily pass $17.

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