Community Guide
Round Lake Park, Illinois
Round Lake Park is a quiet, family-friendly village in central Lake County with a unique history, well-maintained parks, a strong sense of community, and some of the most affordable housing in the county. If you're looking for a place with small-town character and real value, Round Lake Park is worth a close look.
Community Overview
What Round Lake Park is like to live in
Round Lake Park sits on the south side of Round Lake in central Lake County, roughly 37 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. With a population of around 7,700, it's a village that manages to feel tucked away and connected at the same time. The community is built around a suburban-rural character that residents appreciate — quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and parks that are genuinely used by the people who live nearby.
The village has a fascinating origin story. In the late 1930s, Chicago businessman Louis B. Harris purchased over 1,700 acres along the shores of Round Lake and developed the area as a summer-home community. As more families moved in year-round, the community voted to incorporate as the Village of Round Lake Park in 1947 to improve roads and sanitary facilities. That independent, practical spirit is still part of the village's character today.
Round Lake Park is located in central Lake County, roughly 37 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. It's close enough to Grayslake, Mundelein, Libertyville, and Gurnee that you can enjoy their shopping, dining, and entertainment — while coming home to a quieter, more affordable village of your own.
One thing residents consistently mention about Round Lake Park is the genuine community feel. Neighbors know each other. The parks are active with families. The village has a small-town pace that's increasingly hard to find in Lake County. And because the village is one of the more affordable communities in the area, it attracts people who are putting down roots and investing in their homes.
The Round Lake Area Park District oversees 18 parks in the area, and Round Lake Park has several community parks within walking distance of most neighborhoods. The village's location on the south shore of Round Lake means water access and lake views are part of the everyday landscape. Hart's Woods Park, with its hiking trails and natural beauty, is a particular highlight.
For families, first-time buyers, retirees, and anyone who wants authentic Lake County living at a reasonable price, Round Lake Park offers a combination that's increasingly rare: genuine community, practical value, and a pace of life that lets you slow down and enjoy where you live.
Notable Landmarks & Points of Interest
What makes Round Lake Park special
From the natural beauty of Hart's Woods Park to the village's unique history, Round Lake Park has its share of special places that give the community its character.
Hart's Woods Park
Round Lake Park · Natural Area
Hart's Woods Park is a natural treasure in the heart of Round Lake Park. This wooded preserve features hiking trails that wind through a mature forest with diverse wildlife and plant species. It's one of those unexpected natural escapes that makes a community feel special — the kind of place where you can go for a quiet walk, watch the birds, and feel a world away from everyday life, all without leaving the village.
Louis B. Harris & Village Origins
Round Lake Park · Founded 1947
Round Lake Park's history is rooted in a 1930s land purchase by Chicago businessman Louis B. Harris, who bought over 1,700 acres along Round Lake's south shore and developed the area as a summer-home community. The village incorporated in 1947 when year-round residents pushed for better roads and sanitation. That legacy of community self-determination is still part of Round Lake Park's identity today.
Round Lake Water Access
Round Lake Park · Lakefront Living
Round Lake Park sits on the south shore of Round Lake, which is part of the Chain O'Lakes system — one of the largest inland freshwater recreational waterway systems in the country. The lake provides fishing, boating, and scenic views, and waterfront homes along the south shore offer direct lake access. Even for residents who aren't on the water, the lake is a defining feature of the community.
Round Lake Area Park District
Round Lake Area · 18 Parks
The Round Lake Area Park District manages 18 parks and the Nippersink Forest Preserve in the Round Lake area. Residents of Round Lake Park have access to this extensive park system, which includes playgrounds, trails, sports fields, splash pads, a skate park, and year-round recreational programs. The park district is a central part of community life.
Volo Bog State Natural Area
Volo · Nearby
Just a short drive from Round Lake Park, Volo Bog is one of the most unique natural areas in Illinois — the state's only open-water quaking bog and a National Natural Landmark. A half-mile boardwalk takes you through it, and there are additional trails for hiking and birdwatching. It's a genuine local treasure and a place residents visit year after year.
Neighborhood Community Parks
Round Lake Park
Round Lake Park is home to several neighborhood parks including Bengson Park, Kingsburg Park, and Parrott Park. These smaller parks are within walking distance of many homes and provide playgrounds, green space, and places for neighbors to gather. The network of parks throughout the village means that no matter where you live, there's likely a park close by.
Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Green space woven into daily life
Round Lake Park has an impressive park system for a village its size. Between the neighborhood parks, Hart's Woods, and the broader Round Lake Area Park District, outdoor recreation is never far from home.
Hart's Woods Park
The crown jewel of Round Lake Park's outdoor spaces. Hart's Woods Park features hiking trails through a mature wooded environment with diverse wildlife. It's a serene natural escape right within the village — the kind of nearby nature that makes a real difference in daily life. Whether you walk your dog, go for a run, or just sit and listen to the birds, it's a place worth visiting regularly.
Bengson, Kingsburg & Parrott Parks
Round Lake Park's neighborhood parks provide playgrounds, open green space, and places for kids to play and families to gather. Bengson Park, Kingsburg Park, and Parrott Park each serve different parts of the village and are well-maintained by the park district. These are the parks where kids make memories, neighbors meet, and the community connects.
Round Lake Area Park District
The Round Lake Area Park District manages 18 parks and the Nippersink Forest Preserve, offering a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. From sports fields and skate parks to playgrounds and splash pads, the park district keeps the community active and connected. Year-round programs include youth sports, fitness classes, and seasonal events for all ages.
Fishing on Round Lake
Round Lake is a popular fishing destination for local anglers. Bass, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike are all part of the catch. With shoreline access along the south side of the lake and the nearby boat launch at Lakefront Park in Round Lake Beach, fishing is a year-round activity that connects residents to the water and the broader Chain O'Lakes system.
Walking & Biking Trails
Round Lake Park connects to the broader Lake County trail system, giving residents options for walking, jogging, and biking through the community and into neighboring areas. The trails are used year-round and provide a practical way to get around while enjoying the outdoors. It's one of those everyday amenities that makes a real difference in quality of life.
Nearby Outdoor Destinations
Round Lake Park's central location puts you within easy reach of larger outdoor destinations including the Chain O'Lakes waterway system, Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, Volo Bog State Natural Area, and the broader network of Lake County Forest Preserves. Whether you want a quick walk after work or a full day outdoors on the weekend, you won't have to go far.
Schools & Education
Schools that serve the Round Lake Park community
Round Lake Park is served by Round Lake Community Unit School District 116 (RLAS-116), a PK-12 public school district that provides a complete educational pathway from early childhood through high school graduation.
W.J. Murphy Elementary School
Round Lake Park · District 116
W.J. Murphy Elementary School is located right in Round Lake Park at 220 Greenwood Drive. It serves early elementary students in the village and is a true neighborhood school — close enough to walk, part of the fabric of the community. It's one of five elementary schools in District 116 that serve the Round Lake area.
Pleviak Elementary School
Round Lake · District 116
Pleviak Elementary School also serves students from Round Lake Park and the surrounding area. The school is part of District 116's elementary network and provides a strong foundation for young learners before they move on to middle school and high school within the district.
John T. Magee Middle School
Round Lake · District 116
Magee Middle School serves students in grades 6 through 8 from Round Lake Park and the broader Round Lake area. It provides the bridge between elementary and high school within District 116, offering a range of academic and extracurricular programs that prepare students for the next step.
Round Lake High School
Round Lake · District 116
Round Lake High School serves grades 9 through 12 and is the culmination of the District 116 educational pathway. The school offers a range of academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities. The district has been investing in facilities and programming to support student success and prepare graduates for college, careers, and what comes next.
Round Lake Area Schools CUSD 116
Round Lake Area · PK-12
District 116 serves approximately 6,000 students across five elementary schools, a preschool/early education center, two middle schools, a high school, and a transition center. The district covers the Round Lake area including Round Lake Park, Round Lake Beach, Round Lake Heights, and parts of surrounding communities. It provides a complete K-12 education within the community.
School quality is one of the first things families ask about when exploring Round Lake Park, and I'm happy to help you understand the options. The right school fit depends on your child's needs, your family's priorities, and the specific neighborhood you're considering. I can point you in the right direction.
Dining, Shopping & Local Favorites
Everything you need, close to home
Round Lake Park is primarily residential, but you don't have to go far for dining, groceries, and shopping. The Rollins Road corridor, neighboring Round Lake Beach, and the broader Lake County area put everything within easy reach.
Local Dining in the Round Lake Area
Round Lake Area
The Round Lake area has a solid selection of local dining spots that reflect the community's character. You'll find Mexican restaurants and taquerias like Birrieria Jalisco 2, classic pizzerias including Bonus Round Pizza and Olando's Pizza, BBQ'd Productions for smoked meats, Lucky Emma's for sandwiches, and Volo Quality Meats for fresh cuts. Familiar chain restaurants are also available along the Rollins Road corridor, giving you plenty of choices close to home.
Everyday Shopping & Services
Round Lake Area
The Rollins Road corridor provides convenient access to grocery stores, pharmacies, and everyday services. Major retailers like Walmart, ALDI, Meijer, and Woodman's Food Market are all within a short drive. For major shopping, Gurnee Mills and the Grand Avenue retail corridor are about 15 to 20 minutes south, offering outlets, department stores, and entertainment.
Grayslake & Mundelein Dining
5-10 Minute Drive
Both Grayslake and Mundelein are just minutes from Round Lake Park, each offering their own dining scenes. Grayslake's downtown has a growing selection of restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Mundelein offers a mix of local spots and familiar chains. For Round Lake Park residents, these neighboring communities add a lot of variety to the dining options.
Gurnee & Grand Avenue Access
15-Minute Drive
Gurnee's Grand Avenue corridor is a major dining and retail destination just south of Round Lake Park. National restaurant chains, local eateries, and all the practical shopping you need are all concentrated there. Gurnee Mills adds outlet shopping and additional dining. For Round Lake Park residents, the convenience of being close to these amenities without living in a dense commercial area is a real plus.
Community Events
A community that comes together
Round Lake Park has a calendar of community events that bring neighbors together throughout the year. The park district and village organizations keep things active, and the village's central location puts you close to a wider range of regional events.
Shop with a Cop
Round Lake Park Police Department · Annual
The Round Lake Park Police Department runs an annual "Shop with a Cop" program that pairs local children with officers for a holiday shopping experience. It's a heartwarming tradition that builds positive relationships between the community and its police force — and reflects the genuine, caring character of Round Lake Park.
Scott's Amazing Musical Backpack Show
Round Lake Area Park District · Summer
This family-friendly musical performance is one of the park district's special events, bringing music, entertainment, and community connection together. It's the kind of programming that makes small-town life special — creative, community-focused, and designed to bring people together.
Nature Funfest
Round Lake Area Park District · Seasonal
Nature Funfest is a community event that celebrates the outdoors with hands-on activities, nature education, and family fun. It's hosted by the Round Lake Area Park District and gives residents a chance to connect with nature and with each other. Events like these build the sense of community that makes Round Lake Park feel like home.
Community Garage Sales & Park District Programs
Round Lake Park · Year-Round
The park district organizes community garage sales and a full calendar of year-round programs including youth sports, fitness classes, and holiday events. These are the smaller moments that build community connections and make Round Lake Park feel like a place where people belong — not just a place where they live.
Round Lake Beach Civic Center Events
Nearby · Year-Round
The Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center is just minutes away and hosts a year-round calendar of events, including the Summer Performance Concert Series, El Mercadito Market, and seasonal celebrations. Round Lake Park residents can easily take advantage of these nearby events, adding even more variety to the community's social calendar.
Broader Lake County Events
Lake County · Year-Round
Round Lake Park's central location puts residents within easy reach of the Lake County Fair at the fairgrounds in Grayslake, as well as festivals and events in Grayslake, Mundelein, Libertyville, Gurnee, and the Chain O'Lakes communities. You get the benefit of a strong local event calendar with access to a broader scene of community happenings across the county.
Housing & Community
Affordable Lake County living with genuine character
Round Lake Park is one of the more affordable communities in Lake County, which makes it a genuine entry point for buyers who want Lake County living without stretching their budget. The housing stock consists primarily of single-family homes on tree-lined streets — many built from the 1940s onward, giving the village its established, settled character.
The typical price range runs from about $175,000 to $375,000, with variation depending on the home's size, condition, and specific location within the village. That affordability is a major draw — especially for first-time buyers, young families, and people who want to put down roots in Lake County at a price that makes sense.
The homes here are well-built and well-maintained, with established yards and mature trees that give the neighborhoods a welcoming, settled feel. Many homes have been updated over the years, and the village's steady, family-oriented character means that properties are generally well cared for. You'll find a mix of ranches, split-levels, and two-story homes — something for most budgets and preferences.
Who Round Lake Park appeals to
- First-Time Buyers — The affordable price point makes Round Lake Park one of the most accessible ways to get into Lake County homeownership. You get the community, the location, and the value without the premium price.
- Growing Families — Single-family homes with yards, neighborhood parks, and access to District 116 schools make Round Lake Park a practical choice for families that need space and value.
- Downsizers & Empty Nesters — Smaller single-family homes at an affordable price point provide a way to stay in Lake County while moving into something more manageable.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts — Hart's Woods Park, Round Lake access, and nearby forest preserves make this a great base for anyone who loves being outside.
- Value-Conscious Buyers — If you want Lake County's parks, community events, and quality of life without paying a premium for a more well-known address, Round Lake Park offers real value.
Getting Around
Connected to the region
Round Lake Park sits in a practical central location in Lake County with solid road access, major highways nearby, and commuter rail stations a short drive away.
Rollins Road & Route 83
Rollins Road (Route 83) is the main east-west corridor serving the Round Lake area, providing access to shopping, dining, and neighboring communities. Route 12 (Rand Road) is also nearby, running north-south and connecting to Fox Lake, Libertyville, and the broader region. Together, these routes give Round Lake Park residents practical access to everything they need.
I-94 Access
Interstate 94 is easily accessible from Round Lake Park via Route 120 or Route 83, connecting you to the broader Chicago expressway system. For commuters heading south toward the city or to O'Hare, the drive to I-94 is straightforward — making Round Lake Park a practical home base for anyone who needs highway access on a regular basis.
Metra Access Nearby
Round Lake Park doesn't have a direct Metra station, but stations in nearby Grayslake and Mundelein are a short drive away. The Milwaukee District North Line provides commuter rail access to downtown Chicago. For many residents, the nearby station access is a practical option that keeps the train within reach without the premium of living right next to the tracks.
What I appreciate about Round Lake Park
I've been working in Lake County since 1998, and Round Lake Park is one of those communities that I've watched quietly grow into something special. It's not the loudest name in the county, and that's part of its appeal. It's a genuine, family-oriented village where people take care of their homes, their neighbors, and their community.
What I appreciate most about Round Lake Park is the combination of character and value. Hart's Woods Park gives the village a natural anchor that most communities would love to have. The neighborhood parks are well-maintained and actually used. The schools serve the community. And the housing market offers some of the best value in Lake County for people who want a single-family home, a yard, and a neighborhood where kids can grow up.
If you're looking at Round Lake Park — whether you're a first-time buyer trying to get into Lake County, a family that needs more space, or someone looking to downsize into a community that's quiet and welcoming — I'd be happy to help you understand what's available and what makes sense for your situation. No pressure. Just straight answers from someone who knows the area.
— Ron Rank
GRI, e-Pro, SFR, MRP, CNC, PSA · Realtor Emeritus · eXp Realty
Ready to talk about Round Lake Park?
Whether you're buying, selling, or just have questions about the Round Lake Park area, I'm here to help you understand your options. No pressure — just straight answers.