Abstract <p>The obtained data showed that Lake Elton (on the boundary between the shallow Chernavka River and the lake) is characterized by high concentrations of organic compounds: C_org, lipids, and hydrocarbons. Despite the absence of pollution sources, the composition of alkanes in suspension corresponds to weathered petroleum hydrocarbons. This phenomenon is due to the geological conditions of the lake basin—the oil and gas-bearing Elton salt dome structure. The concentration and composition of organic compounds is affected by the seepage of hydrocarbons from the sedimentary layer.</p>