Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026
The Lake Sara Dam Run starts at 8:00 AM, giving you time to arrive Friday or early Saturday morning without rushing. Held in Effingham, Illinois at 9352 E Park Ave, this spring event offers three distances: a 1-mile option, an 8-mile run, and a half marathon. The April date places it early in the racing season, making it accessible for athletes building toward longer goals or looking for a solid early-season 13.1. Whether you're testing fitness after winter training or using the shorter distances as tempo work, the multiple distance options let you choose based on your current phase. Effingham's location in central Illinois means straightforward highway access and affordable lodging options for the weekend.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Effingham, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026
Race day is approaching. Hotels fill up fast.
Race weekend dates pre-loaded on Booking.com. RaceHotelFinder may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for April 4.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Effingham, IL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.
- Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
- Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
- Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
- Emergency medical up to $250,000
- Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
- 24/7 real-time support
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026?
Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026 takes place on April 4, 2026. The race is held in Effingham, Illinois.
Where is Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026 held?
Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026 is held at 9352 E Park Ave in Effingham, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near Lake Sara Dam Run 5K, 8 Mile & Half Marathon – Effingham, IL 2026?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Effingham. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.