Carlyle Lake offers camping experiences around Illinois' largest man-made reservoir spanning 26,000 acres with 83 miles of shoreline. The lake sits at 445 feet elevation with generally flat terrain surrounding the water. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, making spring and fall particularly popular for pet friendly camping near Carlyle Lake when temperatures are milder and campgrounds less crowded.
What to do
Beach swimming access: Boulder Recreation Area features a dedicated swimming beach where campers can cool off during hot Illinois summers. "This campground offers many sites that are right on the lake. Beautiful views. Also boasts the best shower house/bathrooms around. They are air conditioned and cleaned regularly," notes Phil W. about Boulder Rec. Area.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for crappie, bass, and catfish from shorelines or boat docks throughout the area. "We woke up to hear the lake lapping at the shoreline. We had a nearly private cove to fish as well," says Julie M. about the lake access at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Bike trail exploration: Paved trails connect several campgrounds around Carlyle Lake. "There is a bike path that goes right past the campground that was busy all weekend with bikers, runners, and walkers, and takes you from the shower house to the marina in just a short walk," explains Annie C., describing the trails near Dam West.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious arrangements for quiet camping. "We camped right on the lake with a great view. This site and the site next to it are the best sites in the campground with a pull through layout for a great setup for a lake view from the side of your camper," writes Cody S. about Dam West Campground.
Clean shower facilities: Air-conditioned shower houses stand out as a highlight. "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there," says Heather S. about the amenities at Dam West Spillway.
Responsive camp hosts: Staff help solve problems quickly and make stays comfortable. "When our electric wasn't working, they sent a tech over right away and he has us up and running in no time," reports Brooke C. about her experience with the camp hosts at Eldon Hazlet State Park.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campers report issues with water at certain facilities. "I filled by trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids. I drained the tank and filled with a spicket next to our site and had the same dirty water," notes Allen S. from Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Timing for first-come sites: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "We arrived at this campground at 11am on a Friday only to find that that the first-come, first-serve sites were already full," warns Brooke C. about Dam West Campground.
Campground closures: Seasonal flooding can affect access. "This is one State Park i enjoy visiting. However there are times this park cannot be accessed because of flooding," cautions Jake L. about Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: October camping offers special activities for children. "They have a huge Halloween event every year where people decorate their sites (pretty extensively) and there's a haunted house, then kids trick or treat from site to site. The campground also provides pumpkin painting contests and other fun activities," describes Aimee T. from Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Multiple playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer play areas throughout the grounds. "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months. Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area," shares Brooke C. about recreational options.
Beach and pool options: Coles Creek Recreation Area offers both lake swimming and dedicated facilities. "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," mentions Chelsea D. about this dog-friendly camping option.
Tips from RVers
Site reservation timing: For full hookup sites, advance planning is essential. "Full hookup sites are booked solid so make sure you go online 6 months out or you are out of luck," advises Rhonda B. about COE Lake Carlyle McNair Campground.
Level sites: Most pads are well-maintained for easy setup. "Nice level sites next to the lake. Reminds me of when I was a kid and there were camp clubs," describes StaceeQ Q. about the camping areas at Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Weather considerations: Lake winds can affect camping gear and comfort. "Keep in mind that strong winds can sweep across the lake and pick things up if not secured," warns Cody S. about lakefront sites at Dam West Campground.
