Carlyle Lake serves as the centerpiece for camping and glamping close to Greenville, Illinois, with over 26,000 acres of water surface and 11,000 acres of public land surrounding it. Located in south-central Illinois, the region maintains moderate temperatures with summer averages in the mid-80s and winter lows near freezing. The lake and surrounding recreation areas sit at approximately 450 feet above sea level, providing accessible terrain for campers of all experience levels.
What to do
Swimming access: beyond the lake: While Carlyle Lake offers swimming, Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area features an on-site swimming pool with zero-entry access. "There's a nice camp store that serves breakfast and basic lunches, and there is a nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends," notes Aimee T., making it a reliable swimming option when lake conditions aren't ideal.
Fishing variety: The multiple lakes and spillways offer diverse fishing opportunities with different fish populations. At Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, "there is easy access walking down to the marina" according to Jake L., providing boat rentals and fishing access. The area features bass, bluegill, and catfish in most waterways.
Hiking networks: Several miles of interconnected trails wind through the woodlands. "Lots of miles of walking and biking trails!" says Mimi about McNair Campground, where trails connect multiple camping areas. Most trails are rated easy to moderate and don't require specialized footwear or equipment.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers specifically request lakeside camping spots. "We had a spot in the back with a perfect view of the lake. Lots of room for dogs," mentioned one visitor at Coles Creek Recreation Area. Carol B. adds, "Small but clean. Beach access. Spent many weekends here," highlighting the convenience of waterfront sites.
Off-season tranquility: Fall and spring camping offers fewer crowds and moderate temperatures. Wendy F. reports from Eldon Hazlet: "Site 26. We were basically by ourselves being mid week in November. Great view. Nice camp hosts." Many campgrounds remain partially open year-round, with limited winter services.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide prime wildlife watching opportunities. "Lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see!" mentions Chelsea D. from Eldon Hazlet. Bird watchers should bring binoculars as the lake attracts numerous migratory species throughout spring and fall.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campers report issues with water supplies at certain times. Allen S. noted at Eldon Hazlet: "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply... 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." Consider bringing bottled water early in the season.
Bathroom facilities vary: Not all campgrounds maintain the same quality facilities. "Cleanest bathrooms ever and heated and air conditioner," reports Jeri about McNair Campground, while Chelsea D. warns about Eldon Hazlet: "The pit toilets that were spread across the campground were in horrendous condition and had wasps, spiders, and other critters hanging out."
Reservation requirements: Popular weekends book months in advance. At Okaw Valley Kampground, one of the closest glamping options to Greenville, Illinois, camping pods and glamping tents require reservations, especially for holiday weekends. "We stayed for five days during Labor Day weekend... This turned out to be a lovely little vacation for us," noted Shirley M.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: October camping offers special family activities. "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," shares Aimee T. about Eldon Hazlet. Reservations for these weekends should be made months in advance.
Playground access: Multiple play areas accommodate different age groups. Brooke C. points out that Eldon Hazlet has "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."
Kid-friendly structures: Country Bend Campground offers unique recreational facilities. "We had a great time with lots of activities to keep the kiddos busy," mentions Lynnette. Kaitlin D. adds, "We really loved the bridges with trails to ponds, and the jumping pillow," referencing features not commonly found at other area campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Electric options: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability. "There are full hook up, 50 amp sites with many located right on the water!" notes b K. about Coles Creek Recreation Area. Reservations for premium sites with water views and 50-amp service should be made well in advance.
Site leveling: Gravel pads may require leveling blocks in some areas. Shirley M. reports at Okaw Valley: "The sites are close as it is a small campground. But it was easy as people were respectful of each others spaces." Larger RVs should request specific information about site dimensions when making reservations.
Seasonal considerations: Some utilities are shut off during colder months. Tracie E. notes about Stephen A. Forbes: "We were here 1st week of April. Still rather cool weather but had a great time... Hosts told us they were making more space for specific species of trees so 'take all you want' from the area. No need to bring firewood." Fall and spring camping offer fewer crowds but may have limited facilities.
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