Carlyle Lake sits in Clinton County, Illinois with a surface area of 26,000 acres, making it the largest man-made lake in Illinois. The camping areas surrounding this reservoir offer varied terrain with mostly flat campsites under mature hardwood trees. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall camping seasons provide more moderate conditions.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Carlyle Lake attracts anglers year-round. "The main draw here is the water itself. With great opportunities for fishing and boating, it's an ideal destination for anglers and families with small boats," notes Mitchell R.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas. At Dam West Campground, campers can access "the beach at Dam West [which] is great for the kids! We spent an afternoon there and enjoyed a picnic and swimming," according to Brooke C.
Biking trails: Paved paths connect multiple recreation areas. "The campground is perfect for taking long walks and bike riding," reports Rhonda B., who frequently visits Dam West Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The lakes attract migratory birds and resident wildlife. "Lots of deer bed down in the grassy areas at night, which was a fun thing to see," shares Chelsea D. about her stay at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Boulder Recreation Area offers large campsites with lake views. "Campsites are large with plenty of room for camper and vehicles," says Richard R., who has been visiting since 1968.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent restroom facilities. At Coles Creek Recreation Area, "Their bathrooms and showerhouse were impeccably clean, and many sites are right next to the lake," according to Chelsea D.
Reasonable rates: Camping remains affordable for longer stays. "Sites at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground accommodate overnight stays at reasonable rates - 'Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just $8,'" says Helge Vandel J.
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean. 5 ⭐ in my opinion simply because of the overnight price and privacy," shares WanderlustDu0 about Horseshoe Lake State Park.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Popular weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. "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 Brooke C. about Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Water quality concerns: Some campers report issues with 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 Allen S. at Eldon Hazlet.
Seasonal flooding: Access to some areas depends on water levels. "This is one State Park I enjoy visiting. However there are times this park cannot be accessed because of flooding," warns Jake L. about Boulder Recreation Area.
Bathroom locations: Plan for potential walks to facilities. "Unless you have a restroom in your rig, be prepared to walk up to the showerhouse. The pit toilets that were spread across the campground were in horrendous condition," cautions Chelsea D. about Eldon Hazlet.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: McNair Campground offers play areas for children. "A beach to swim at and a dock to fish off. A playground for kids," notes jeri, who camps there several times a year.
Halloween events: Special seasonal activities attract families. "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," describes Aimee T. at Eldon Hazlet State Park.
Recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged. "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.
Zero-entry pools: Some campgrounds maintain swimming pools during summer. "There is a nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends," adds Aimee T. about facilities at Eldon Hazlet.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Scott AFB FamCamp offers good utility connections but limited waste disposal. "Does not have sewer hook up. One dump station that is clean, black water hose provided, but used a lot. Expect to wait your turn," advises MGySgt K.
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun," notes MGySgt K. about Scott AFB FamCamp.
Weather considerations: Lake winds can affect camping comfort. "Our site was on the shore and had good spacing from others. The bathrooms, showers, and laundry all close by," reports Carol B. about Boulder Recreation Area.
Accessibility: Some campgrounds require driving to amenities. "You are on the entire opposite side of the base, away from everything, absolutely everything. You are only kinda close to the golf course. Be prepared to drive to everything, nothing is walking distance," cautions MGySgt K. about Scott AFB FamCamp.
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