Carlyle, Illinois, situated 50 miles east of St. Louis, offers tent campsites surrounded by lakes and prairie landscapes. This region experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging 88°F in July and cold winters with January lows around 20°F. Tent camping near Carlyle provides access to multiple bodies of water including Carlyle Lake, the largest lake in Illinois, spanning 26,000 acres.
What to do
Water activities on Rend Lake: North Marcum Day Use Area provides direct lake access for swimming and boating. "Just beautiful, the Corp of Engineering's really take care of these camp grounds, very clean, most have new showers," notes Jim L. about North Marcum Day Use Area.
Fishing from shore: Tent campsites near Carlyle, Illinois offer bank fishing opportunities. At the World Shooting Complex, campers can "boat, kayak or fish from the bank," according to Christi L., who camps there annually with her son's shooting team.
Bird watching: Rend Lake serves as an important habitat for various bird species. "The lake is an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bird watchers to go," mentions Jill R. from her experience at North Marcum.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: World Shooting and Recreational Complex offers extensive camping space. Chip notes, "Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue," which proves particularly valuable during peak summer weekends when tent campsites near Carlyle fill quickly.
Clean facilities: Tent campers appreciate the maintenance standards at Rend Lake campgrounds. Jim L. comments that the Corps of Engineers "really take care of these camp grounds, very clean, most have new showers."
Quieter off-season camping: Late summer provides more solitude at certain campgrounds. One camper at World Shooting Complex reported, "Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night and they were gone Saturday morning," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere available in late August.
What you should know
Seasonal occupancy varies dramatically: The World Shooting Complex fills completely during specific events. "During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full," warns Chip about the American Trap Shooters Association "Grand" Event at Spillway Group Area.
Summer heat considerations: Tent camping near Carlyle faces climate challenges in peak summer. Christi L. describes the World Shooting Complex as "Quiet but can be dry and hot in the summer," suggesting spring or fall might provide more comfortable temperatures for tent campers.
Verify campground legitimacy: Some listings may be inaccurate. Multiple reviewers reported issues with Countryside Escape, with Zachary W. stating, "I don't know why this is on the app but it appears to be someone's house," and another reviewer confirming they "Didn't find a campground, only someone's home."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Countryside Escape offers family-friendly swimming areas. Jill R. notes that the beach at Rend Lake "is also tidy and free of alot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in," making it suitable for families with small children.
Team camping opportunities: The World Shooting Complex accommodates group camping. Christi L. mentions, "We camp here every summer with my sons shooting team," indicating the site works well for youth groups or family gatherings needing multiple tent sites.
Shower availability: When camping with children, clean bathing facilities become essential. Jim L. points out that most Rend Lake campgrounds have "new showers," which helps families maintain comfort during multi-day stays.
Tips from RVers
Limited tree cover at some sites: The World Shooting Complex offers numerous hookups but limited shade. "Not many trees," reports Chip, suggesting tent campers bring additional sun protection during summer months.
Shower access verification: At certain campgrounds, facility access may be inconsistent. One 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 when I was there."
Off-season availability: Late August through October provides more open camping options. A visitor to World Shooting Complex reported camping "last weekend in August" with almost no other campers in sight, ideal for those seeking solitude at tent campsites near Carlyle.
