Carlyle Lake features tent camping options in established campgrounds managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Located in Clinton County, Illinois, the lake spans 26,000 acres with 83 miles of shoreline, making it the largest man-made lake in Illinois. Camping areas surround the lake with varying levels of development and amenities, with most sites open from April through October when temperatures range from 50-85°F during primary camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Carlyle Lake offers excellent fishing for crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. The World Shooting and Recreational Complex includes lake access where campers can fish from the bank. One visitor noted, "Huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank. Quiet but can be dry and hot in the summer."
Water recreation: Swimming, boating, and kayaking are popular summer activities. At North Marcum Day Use Area, campers can enjoy the beach. A visitor described it as "an beautiful little beach on Rend lake. The lake is an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bord watchers to go!"
Seasonal events: During August, the World Shooting Complex hosts the American Trap Shooters Association "Grand" Event, which fills the campground. A camper observed, "During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full. We were here last weekend in August. Only one other camper within sight of our spot."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: The tent camping areas around Carlyle Lake provide ample space between sites at most campgrounds. At World Shooting Complex, campers appreciate the layout: "Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue," according to one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at Corps of Engineers campgrounds. Visitors to Spillway Group Area appreciate the picnic tables and electric hookups available at designated sites.
Wildlife viewing: The lake environment attracts diverse bird species, making it popular with birdwatchers. One camper at North Marcum noted the lake is "an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bord watchers to go!"
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most Carlyle Lake campgrounds operate seasonally, with peak usage during summer months. Some areas like World Shooting Complex remain open year-round but with limited facilities during winter.
Variable amenities: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Some tent camping areas offer modern amenities while others are more rustic. A camper at World Shooting Complex noted, "There is a shower house I believe but could not access a couple of the doors I tried. I imagine they had some unlocked but I didn't try all the doors."
Verification recommended: Some listings may be inaccurate. The Countryside Escape listing appears to be a private residence rather than a legitimate camping option. A visitor warned, "Didn't find a campground, only someone's home. I didn't approach to ask, since it looks like a private home. Not sure why this is on the app."
Tips for camping with families
Beach conditions: Families appreciate the clean beaches at certain locations. One camper at North Marcum reported, "The beach is also tidy and free of alot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in."
Quiet weekdays: For families seeking more peaceful tent camping near Carlyle Lake, consider weekdays when campgrounds are less crowded. World Shooting Complex can be particularly empty during non-event periods.
Group camping options: Spillway Group Area offers designated spaces for family or group camping with amenities including picnic tables and electric hookups, though advance planning is necessary as facilities are limited.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: The World Shooting Complex offers full hookups for RVs. A camper reported, "This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer. Not many trees. Lot's of full hookups."
Limited shade: RV campers should note the lack of tree cover at some campgrounds. At World Shooting Complex, one camper mentioned, "Not many trees," which can make summer camping hot without adequate cooling.
Seasonal gatherings: Some RV groups meet regularly at Carlyle Lake campgrounds. One camper at World Shooting Complex shared, "We camp here every summer with my sons shooting team. Fun place to gather with friends."
