Carlyle Lake offers glamping options situated 618 feet above sea level along its 83-mile shoreline. The reservoir spans 26,000 acres with water depths averaging 11 feet. Winter temperatures in Keyesport can drop to 20°F while summer months often exceed 85°F with high humidity levels during July and August.
What to do
Fishing access points: Gun Creek campground provides multiple shore fishing spots along Rend Lake with exposed tree roots creating natural fishing nooks. "We got there late and had no problems finding a great campsite right next to the lake," notes Jonathan W., who found the electric-equipped sites particularly convenient for overnight anglers.
Swimming options: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area features a swim beach within walking distance of campsites, though maintenance varies seasonally. "There's a swim beach to swim at and a dock to fish off. A playground for kids," reports one camper who visits the park several times yearly.
Hiking trails: The Dam East Recreation Area offers walking paths connecting to longer trail systems with wildlife viewing opportunities. "There is a little pond where people fished, and a little walking path for little kid 'hikes,'" describes Shirley M., who discovered these amenities during a Labor Day weekend stay.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Coles Creek Recreation Area attracts budget-conscious glampers with senior pass discounts. "This is a COE campground and takes our senior pass. If you are needing a full hookup site, make sure you book early!" advises Rhonda B., highlighting the value at this Army Corps of Engineers location.
Spacious sites: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area offers generously sized glamping spots, particularly in the Illini section. "Absolutely huge site with old growth trees throughout the campground without lots of space between," notes Jay B., who appreciated the layout during a July 4th stay.
Family-friendly amenities: Okaw Valley Kampground maintains a stocked fishing lake, playground, and swimming pool. "The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," shares one visitor, while another remarks, "There is a swimming pool and campground store."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some areas around Carlyle Lake experience seasonal water quality issues. "I filled my 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 Allen S. about his spring visit to Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between glamping locations. "Cleanest bathrooms ever and heated and air conditioned," praises a McNair Campground visitor, while another camper notes, "The pit toilets that were spread across the campground were in horrendous condition and had wasps, spiders, and other critters hanging out."
Site leveling challenges: Gun Creek requires careful attention to site selection. "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline, which seems ok for smaller rigs," warns a camper who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Illini Campground hosts elaborate Halloween events. "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 Aimee T., who recommends arriving at least a week early as the campground fills quickly for these activities.
Playground options: Multiple glamping sites near Keyesport feature playground equipment. "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," shares Brooke C. about her October visit.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can enjoy wildlife sightings from campsites. "Oh and lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see!" mentions Chelsea D., adding a memorable nature experience during their family weekend trip.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Archway RV Park serves as an ideal stopover for RVers traveling through the Keyesport area. "We travel between Charleston, SC and Omaha, NE several times a year and always stay here on return trip. Long first day drive, but so handy and staff couldn't be more accommodating to our late arrivals," shares Robert T.
Campground Wi-Fi reliability: Several luxury glamping sites offer surprisingly good internet connectivity. "Good wifi, phone and cable signals," reports one reviewer about Gun Creek, while another camper at Archway RV Park notes, "The WiFi works great as I was able to stream anything I wanted on Hulu."
Full hookup availability: Many glamping sites require advance booking for premium utility connections. "Large waterfront campsites, full hookup loop, and 4 other large loops that have electric," describes a Coles Creek visitor who recommends early reservations for the most desirable full-hookup locations.
