Camping near Carlyle Lake

Carlyle Lake draws many campers who enjoy water activities and outdoor recreation. The City Park Campground sits close to the water with good-sized sites that have electrical hookups. You can find both regular and primitive camping at Carlyle Lake Area State Park, which works well for different camping styles. The Recreation Area has several places to launch boats and fish from piers. If you want more privacy, check out the national forest camping areas around the lake, which have good trails and chances to see wildlife. Carlyle Lake County Park Campground has nice tree cover and places to picnic. Most of the campgrounds have regular bathrooms with flush toilets and drinking water. You can shower at quite a few of the campgrounds, which makes longer stays more comfortable. The views are beautiful and you'll likely see lots of animals, so bring a camera if you enjoy photography. Visit during spring or fall when temperatures are nicer. Summers get pretty hot, so pack sunscreen and extra water if camping then. Carlyle Lake works well for family camping trips or if you're heading out alone.

Best Camping Sites Near Carlyle Lake (72)

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Recent Reviews near Carlyle Lake

391 Reviews of 72 Carlyle Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Carlyle Lake

Camping near Carlyle Lake, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, this area has something for you.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Carlyle Lake is known for its great fishing spots. Many campers enjoy casting a line and relaxing by the water. One visitor at Coles Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "The lake is a prime fishing and boating lake, and is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes."
  • Hiking: There are several trails around the lake for hiking enthusiasts. A camper at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area noted, "The main trail was nice but could be better marked. Lost our way a few times but still a good hike."
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have beach areas for swimming. A review from Dam West Spillway highlighted, "The beach at Dam West is great for the kids! We spent an afternoon there and enjoyed a picnic and swimming."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Okaw Valley Kampground said, "Clean restrooms and showers with hot water."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites with plenty of room. A camper at Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area remarked, "Absolutely huge site with old growth trees throughout the campground."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming atmosphere. A review from Archway RV Park stated, "Overall very nice campground, well maintained."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Dam West Campground advised, "Make sure you go online 6 months out or you are out of luck."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Washington County State Recreation Area mentioned, "Pit toilets. Spotty Verizon."
  • Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A review from Coles Creek Recreation Area noted, "Only reason it's 4 stars and not 5 is because it is decently buggy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. A family at Okaw Valley Kampground enjoyed, "Kids liked the slides in the playground."
  • Activities for All Ages: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. A visitor at Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area shared, "Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Dam West Spillway mentioned, "There are a couple of beach areas you can walk or ride a bike to."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. A review from Archway RV Park noted, "Gravel sites arranged like a parking lot but large enough for big rigs."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area mentioned, "Showers and bathrooms were typical for a state park."
  • Check for Amenities: Before booking, check what amenities are available. A camper at Illinois Boulder Recreation Area said, "They have PLENTY of sites, most with some view of the water."

Camping near Carlyle Lake, Illinois, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions