Moraine Hills State Park offers access to the Fox River and 48-acre Lake Defiance with boat rentals available at the McHenry Dam concession stand (open April-October).

Fishing is available on both the Fox River and Lake Defiance, with a dedicated fishing pier accessible to visitors with disabilities at the McHenry Dam area; electric trolling motors are permitted, and private boats can be brought by car top.

The park features over 10 miles of trails, picnic areas, and day-use facilities, though it is day-use only with seasonal closures during firearm deer hunting season.