Lake Sara was dedicated on November 10, 1957 as a water reservoir for the City of Effingham, Illinois. Lake Sara is an 800 acre lake, with 27 miles of shoreline located 4 miles west of Effingham. Lake Sara has many attractions both on and off the lake. It has a public beach that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, two marinas, two restaurants, a camp ground and several area golf courses. The lake offers, boating, fishing, swimming and kayaking activities. Lake Sara is controlled by a three member board under the authority of the Effingham Water Authority. Lake Sara has two full time employees that operate and maintain the lake. During the summer months, there are eight to thirteen part time employees to patrol the lake, mow and maintain its facilities.