Camping near Carlyle Lake
Carlyle Lake offers a mix of developed campgrounds with most managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The largest lake in Illinois provides numerous camping options including Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area and Coles Creek Recreation Area, both featuring a range of tent sites, RV hookups, and some cabin accommodations. Campgrounds around the lake maintain well-established facilities with electric hookups available at most locations. The Boulder Recreation Area and Dam West Campground round out the primary developed camping destinations on different portions of the lake, offering varied water views and access points.
Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays throughout summer and early fall when campgrounds frequently reach capacity, especially for waterfront and full hookup sites. Most campgrounds maintain operational seasons from spring through fall, with limited winter availability. Water and electrical service may be reduced during off-season months. Bathhouses and shower facilities vary across campgrounds, with most open from April through October. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal patterns with hot, humid summers and mild springs and falls ideal for camping. As one camper noted, "The sites are very nice and most have shade. There is a beach for campers to use, and a really nice playground. Their bathrooms and showerhouse were impeccably clean, and many sites are right next to the lake."
Waterfront sites receive consistently high reviews across multiple campgrounds, with many visitors highlighting the spacious, level areas suitable for both tent and RV camping. According to reviews from The Dyrt, Coles Creek Recreation Area stands out with "large waterfront campsites, full hookup loop, and 4 other large loops that have electric." Campgrounds provide amenities like swimming beaches, picnic areas, playgrounds, and boat ramps giving campers direct lake access. Several visitors mentioned the family-friendly atmosphere and clean facilities as significant advantages, though some campgrounds receive feedback about limited restroom accessibility. The campground at Eldon Hazlet hosts special seasonal events including an extensive Halloween celebration with decorated sites and activities that draws significant crowds requiring advance planning.
