Washington County State Recreation Area features three distinct camping environments across Lonely Oaks, Little Bears, and Shady Rest campgrounds. Located in the rolling hills of southern Illinois at 500 feet elevation, the area receives moderate rainfall year-round and typically stays warm from May through September. The campground sits around a 248-acre lake with fishing opportunities for bass, bluegill, and catfish.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Washington County Lake offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "The campground is pretty far from any big metro area, so the sky was real dark, great for picking out constellations. We listened to Whip-por-will calls around the campfire," notes Joel R. about Washington County State Recreation Area.
Fishing access points: Multiple shoreline fishing locations accommodate anglers without boats. "The lake is enormous and there are plenty of fishing access points including a large dock so bring a boat!!" advises Rosie R. The concession building previously offered boat rentals, though availability may have changed.
Hiking trails: The recreation area features interconnected trails circling the lake. "Caught a few bass and a good amount of hiking. Large trail around the whole lake, smaller trails lead to sites around the different campgrounds," explains a camper at Coles Creek Recreation Area.
Swimming beaches: Carlyle Lake offers designated swimming areas with day-use facilities. "There are a couple of beach areas you can walk or ride a bike to," notes Jacqueline F. about Dam West Spillway. These beaches typically operate during summer months with some restrictions.
What campers like
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide direct access to water and scenic vistas. "We camped right on the lake with a great view. This site and the site next to it are the best sites in the campground with a pull through layout for a great setup for a lake view from the side of your camper," reports Cody S. about Dam West Campground.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the area offer generously sized sites with adequate separation. "The sites are very nice and most have shade. There is a beach for campers to use, and a really nice playground," writes Chelsea D. about Coles Creek Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campground upkeep receives consistently positive reviews. "Bath house was very well kept and clean. Showers ran cold at first but after a few mins it gets warmer! There were plenty of pit toilets throughout the campground and trash cans," reports AC about Washington County State Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "We woke up to hear the lake lapping at the shoreline," describes Julie M. at Boulder Recreation Area, while another camper notes, "lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see!"
What you should know
Cash only policies: Some facilities maintain cash-only payment systems. "Note: no cards accepted. We had to run back to the town of Nashville to get some cash from the ATM," cautions Sarah S. about Washington County State Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "We arrived at this campground at 11am on a Friday only to find that the first-come, first-serve sites were already full. From driving around it looks like a very nice campground," advises Brooke C. about Dam West Campground.
Seasonal flooding: Some campgrounds experience closures due to high water. "When the lake is flooded you cannot access this campground," warns Jake L. about Boulder Recreation Area. Check conditions before traveling during spring or after heavy rainfall.
Water quality issues: Potable water systems occasionally present problems. "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. at Illini Campground. Consider bringing additional water during your visit.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Family-oriented facilities include 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," reports Brooke C.
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming facilities provide safe recreation. "There is a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," notes Allen S. about Illini Campground.
Independence-friendly layout: The campground design allows for safe exploration. "Nice level sites next to the lake. Reminds me of when I was a kid and there were camp clubs. You came with your parents and didn't see them again until night time. We swam rode bikes and just played," describes StaceeQ Q.
Nearby conveniences: Essential supplies remain accessible during your stay. "Walmart is just 5-10min away if needed as well as restaurants, gas station, and other amenities in Carlyle nearby," points out Brooke C.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most area campgrounds offer electric sites with varying amperage. "Sites are either full hookup, or electric. Many can be reserved online some are FCFS," explains Shane E. about Dam East Recreation Area. Most sites provide 30-amp service with limited 50-amp options.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Nashville: Multiple pet-welcoming options exist within the area. "It is surrounded by cornfields, however the park is wooded. The park surrounds a very pretty lake," explains Rod about Washington County State Recreation Area, which allows leashed pets throughout most camping areas.
Leveling considerations: Site topography varies between campgrounds. "Sites were very level," notes Lisa M. about McNair Group Area, while another camper at Boulder Recreation Area mentions sites being "level within a couple inches."
RV dump stations: Waste disposal facilities may be limited at some locations. "The only thing I would change is the ONE dump station for this massive campground," comments Amurican L. about Coles Creek Recreation Area. Plan accordingly for busy checkout times.
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