Saylorville Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Saylorville Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Saylorville Lake today is 20.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 23.1°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 14 | 23.2°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 15 | 22.8°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 16 | 22.4°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 17 | 22.5°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 18 | 22.2°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 19 | 21.4°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 20 | 20.8°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 21 | 23.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 23.9°C | 21.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 23.9°C | 21.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 23.9°C | 21.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 23.9°C | 21.6°C | |
| SEP 26 | 23.9°C | 21.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 23.9°C | 21.9°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| June | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| October | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
Saylorville Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Saylorville Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Saylorville Lake experiences a wide seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In winter the lake often hovers near freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C). Spring brings a gradual rise, with surface readings commonly in the 40s to low 60s°F (4–17°C) as air temperatures moderate and runoff influences the water. Summer is when the lake is warmest: surface temperatures frequently climb into the low-to-mid 70s and sometimes the 80s°F (about 21–29°C) during hot spells, making the shallows the most comfortable for swimming. In autumn the water cools back through the 50s and 60s°F (10–20°C) as daylight shortens and air temperatures fall. Deeper water remains colder year-round, and conditions can change quickly with storms or inflows.
Swimming at Saylorville Lake is permitted in designated recreation areas, but it is managed rather than supervised; many beaches have no lifeguards and water safety signs are posted. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local parks allow public use for bathing and wading because the reservoir is maintained for multiple recreational purposes, yet swimmers should be mindful of hazards such as sudden drop-offs, cold deeper water, boat traffic, and variable currents. In winter, open-water swimming is uncommon due to near-freezing temperatures and ice safety concerns.