Carlyle Lake provides the primary camping backdrop near Keyesport, Illinois, covering 26,000 acres with 11.5 miles of shoreline accessible to campers. Winter temperatures can drop to the 20s, making seasonal camping considerations important for visitors. Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting campground access particularly during spring flooding.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lake attracts many anglers, with Boulder Recreation Area offering direct lake access and fish cleaning stations. "Depending on what site you stay in you will have an amazing view of the lake. With several picnic areas and the marina close. I have enjoyed camping and fishing at this campground," notes a visitor to Boulder Recreation Area.
Beach activities: Multiple swimming areas exist near campgrounds, with Dam West offering a dedicated beach. "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 a camper at Dam West Spillway.
Walking and biking: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems around the lake. "There's miles and miles of walking and biking trails! The sites are pretty generously sized. Easy bike ride into the town of Carlyle," reports a visitor to McNair Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Many campsites offer good separation, particularly at Boulder. "Sites are spacious with plenty of room for camper and vehicles," notes a camper at Boulder Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: The Army Corps of Engineers maintains high standards at their campgrounds. "The shower houses are clean and air conditioned, there's a nice camp store that serves breakfast and basic lunches," reports a visitor to Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Seasonal activities: Halloween events draw large crowds to certain campgrounds. "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," explains a camper at Eldon Hazlet State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. "Only negatives is that this campground is not open year-round," notes a camper at Dam West.
Flooding concerns: Certain campgrounds become inaccessible during high water. "When the lake is flooded you can not access this campground," warns a visitor about Boulder Recreation Area.
Water quality issues: Some campers report problems with the drinking water. "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," reports a visitor at Eldon Hazlet.
Reservation requirements: During peak season, planning ahead is crucial. "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," notes a camper at Coles Creek Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas for children. "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," recommends a visitor to Eldon Hazlet.
Swimming options: Beyond the lake, some campgrounds offer pool facilities. "There is a nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends," notes a camper at Eldon Hazlet.
Educational activities: Look for ranger-led programs at certain campgrounds. "They have outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children," explains a visitor to Dam West Spillway.
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see animals add to the family experience. "Oh and lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see," shares a camper at Eldon Hazlet.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some lakefront sites require adjustment. "The sites that overlook the lake are absolutely gorgeous! The sites were flat ground," notes a visitor to Dam West Spillway.
Electrical options: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups with varying amperage. "Sites are either full hookup, or electric. Many can be reserved online some are FCFS," explains a visitor at Boulder Recreation Area.
Dump station access: Limited facilities can cause delays during busy periods. "The only thing I would change is the ONE dump station for this massive campground," warns a visitor to Coles Creek Recreation Area.
Pad surfaces: Various campgrounds offer different parking surfaces. "Sites are pretty level, are gravel, wooded, and spacious," explains a camper at Eldon Hazlet State Park.
