Carlyle Lake provides the backdrop for pet friendly camping near Keyesport, Illinois with over 26,000 acres of water surface and 83 miles of shoreline. The lake sits at 445 feet above sea level with summer water temperatures reaching 85°F. Camping options around the lake include Army Corps of Engineers (COE) sites that offer reasonable rates and senior pass discounts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Boulder Recreation Area offers prime fishing spots along the shoreline and near the marina. "Marina available for fuel and a few supplies. Firewood available up the road" notes Richard R., who has visited since 1968.
Biking trails: Dam West Campground provides paved trails ideal for cycling around the lake. Campers report: "There's miles and miles of walking and biking trails! Easy bike ride into the town of Carlyle," according to a review from Mimi at COE Lake Carlyle McNair Campground.
Swimming options: While many campgrounds offer lake access, Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area has additional swimming facilities. "There is a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," reports Allen S. The campground also features "three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The shower houses at Dam West Spillway receive consistent praise for maintenance. "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there," says heather S.
Large campsites: Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground offers spacious sites, many with lake views. "Campground was well maintained with spacious campsites. I tried to get a spot on the water but they were all reserved, they looked really nice," shares Stephanie S. The campground "boasts the best shower house/bathrooms around. They are air conditioned and cleaned regularly."
Fall camping: Many visitors enjoy the campgrounds during autumn months when temperatures moderate. "We stayed here for the first time the weekend of October 9th. The weather was perfect, warmer than typical fall in IL but a nice breeze off the lake kept it from feeling hot out," notes Brooke C. at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Some campers report problems with water sources early in the season. "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. 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.
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Dam West Campground is open "March 30 to October 30" while Boulder Recreation Area operates from "April 13 to October 12," according to campground information.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "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," shares Brooke C. about a fall weekend at Eldon Hazlet.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area hosts special seasonal 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 and other fun activities," explains Aimee T.
Kid-friendly amenities: Coles Creek Recreation Area offers features that appeal to children. "There is a beach for campers to use, and a really nice playground. Their bathrooms and showerhouse were impeccably clean, and many sites are right next to the lake," shares Chelsea D.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds around Carlyle Lake offer chances to observe animals. "Oh and lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see!" notes Chelsea D. about Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Senior discounts: Many campgrounds offer significant savings for seniors. "I paid $42 for 4 nights. If you're a senior, the rate is $7/night with electric," reports Mimi about COE Lake Carlyle McNair Campground.
Optimal sites: Experienced campers recommend specific areas. "Outside sites are by far the best. 16, 17, 18 are favorites," suggests Roger W. about Dam East - McNair Campground, noting the campground rates "4 for cleanliness and stopover location for travels on nearby highway."
Hookup options: Boulder Recreation Area offers full hookups at many sites. "We live an hour away in St Louis and park our RV near Boulder because we visit so often... Sites are either full hookup, or electric. Many can be reserved online, some are FCFS," explains Shane E., adding "We like these parks better than most KOA's we have visited."
Traveler
