Established Camping
Dam East Recreation Area
Dam East Recreation Area, near Carlyle, Illinois, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy a mix of camping and outdoor activities. With a variety of sites available for tents, RVs, and even glamping, it’s a convenient choice for different camping styles.
This campground is known for its well-maintained facilities, including drinking water and electric hookups, which make your stay comfortable. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are surrounded by trees, providing a nice sense of privacy, even though it’s a smaller area. One camper noted, “Every camping spot has trees surrounding it, so it’s very nice.”
If you’re into fishing, hiking, or just soaking up the sun, you’ll find plenty to do here. The nearby Carlyle Lake is a popular destination for swimming and boating, and many campers enjoy picnicking in the scenic surroundings. As one reviewer put it, “It’s always a good time. There are plenty of areas to fish, hike, swim, picnic.”
While the campground has some restrictions, like no alcohol or fires allowed, it still offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends looking to unwind. Just keep in mind that it can get busy, especially during peak times, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re here for a weekend or just a day trip, Dam East Recreation Area has a lot to offer for a fun-filled outdoor experience.
Description
US Army Corps of Engineers
Carlyle Lake
Overview
Dam East Recreation Area is situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois largest man-made lake.
Natural Features:
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nations top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas.
Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
Recreation:
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports.
Fishing is a popular pastime, and white bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, flathead catfish and walleye can be found in abundance.
There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play in, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short walk away.
Facilities:
Dam East features a reservable picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people, as well as a boat ramp and courtesy docks. Visitors can walk or bike across the dam to the Dam West facilities and McNair Group Area.
Nearby Attractions:
Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information, a gift shop and nature exhibits, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish and a display featuring a live massasauga rattlesnake.
Location
Dam East Recreation Area is located in Illinois
Directions
From I-57, take Old U.S. Route 50 west for 37 miles to the Dam East entrance road and turn north. Turn east at the next intersection and continue for 1.2 miles to Dam East Day Use Area.
Coordinates
38.61544876 N
89.35372867 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 54 min from St. Louis
- 1 hr 34 min from Springfield
- 1 hr 47 min from Decatur
- 2 hrs from Cape Girardeau
