What is the max vehicle length at Lotus Group Area?

Lotus Group Area allows vehicles up to 35 feet.

Are fires allowed at Lotus Group Area?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Lotus Group Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Lotus Group Area have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Lotus Group Area does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Lotus Group Area?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is unknown.

How hard is it to get a campsite at Lotus Group Area?

Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Lotus Group Area. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Lotus Group Area, try setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Lotus Group Area?

There are 1 campsites at Lotus Group Area and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Established Camping

Lotus Group Area

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There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Due to construction that will be taking place at Lotus Group Area during the off season, reservations will not be accepted until approximately April 1, 2025. The cabins and kitchen building will be removed from the area due to their age, and occupancy usage. Additional campsites will be put in the area in place of the cabins. Any questions can be answered by calling the Carlyle Lake Project Office at 618-594-2484.

Lotus Group Area is located near Carlyle Lake in Illinois, featuring flat terrain with grassy areas and scattered trees. The weather typically ranges from highs in the 80s Fahrenheit during summer to lows in the 20s during winter. Visitors can explore Carlyle Lake for fishing and boating or visit Eldon Hazlet State Park for hiking and wildlife observation.

Description

US Army Corps of Engineers

Carlyle Lake

Overview

The Lotus Group Area is on the eastern 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.

Recreation

The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. The vast lake allows for plenty of water sports with boat ramps, courtesy docks and a swimming beach being located nearby. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.

Natural Features

Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's 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.

Nearby Attractions

Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.

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Location

Lotus Group Area is located in Illinois

Directions

From I-57, take Old U.S. Highway 50 west for 19 miles, through Salem, Odin and Sandoval. Turn north on Boulder Road/2400E. After 4 miles turn east on 1700N and continue until the road connects with 2400E. Continue south and turn right just before reaching the Coles Creek entrance road. Proceed north to Lotus Group Area.