Carlyle Lake sits at the heart of camping spots near Highland, Illinois, spanning 26,000 acres with over 80 miles of shoreline. Most campgrounds in this region maintain operations from April through October, with seasonal closures often extending into winter months. Water levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the year, occasionally causing temporary closures of lower-elevation campsites during heavy spring rains.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Boulder Recreation Area provides direct lake access with multiple shoreline fishing spots. "We had a nearly private cove to fish as well," notes Julie M. about nearby Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Swimming options: Coles Creek Recreation Area features a dedicated beach for campers. "There is a beach very near the campground that is within walking distance. There are also pools located near to the campground that can be used by the public," explains Jeanie H.
Boating access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to marinas with boat launching facilities. "Overlooks the marina so you can watch boats come and go," writes Joanna M. about Boulder Rec. Area, which provides easy water access.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many sites offer generous spacing compared to commercial campgrounds. At Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, "Some sites are spacious, others are pretty cramped. The loop that we stayed on was close to the water with views of Carlyle Lake," reports Allen S.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities receive consistent praise at many locations. "The bathrooms and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there," notes heather S. about Dam West Spillway.
Lakefront views: Premium sites with direct water views are highly coveted. "We had a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice and it was so clean and the area was lovely," shares Sarah J. about her stay at Dam West Spillway.
What you should know
Reservation timing: For peak summer weekends, plan far ahead. "The campground filled up by 11am on Friday, which was a surprise to us. We lucked out and were able to reserve one of the last spots," warns Brooke C. from her experience at Eldon Hazlet.
Water quality issues: Some campers report problems with drinking water supplies. "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. 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," cautions Allen S. about Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Facility variation: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Dam West Spillway, "The fairly clean shower house for the whole campground is up near the entrance (it also has a laundry room, but I did not check it out)," mentions Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas keep children entertained. At Eldon Hazlet State Park, "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," explains Brooke C.
Special events: Some campgrounds organize seasonal activities for families. "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," shares Aimee T. about Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Nature opportunities: Wildlife viewing adds educational value for children. "Lots of migrant waterfowl. Pelicans, egrets, blue herons," observes Shawn about the variety of birds at Dam West Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. At Scott AFB FamCamp, "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun," advises MGySgt K.
Hookup availability: Hookup options vary widely between campgrounds and specific sites. "Sites are either full hookup, or electric. Many can be reserved online some are FCFS," explains Shane E. about Boulder Recreation Area.
Dump station congestion: During busy checkout periods, plan for potential delays. "Does not have sewer hook up. One dump station that is clean, black water hose provided, but used a lot. Expect to wait your turn," warns MGySgt K. about Scott AFB FamCamp.
