Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Popped in late on July 4th during a cross-country trip just for the night. Wonderful hosts checked us in (Happy Anniversary!) Absolutely huge site with old growth trees throughout the campground without lots of space between.

We had reservations nearly one month ahead, and the campground was full, yet quiet and restful. Our site only had electric hookup, and there were two pit toilets in the cul de sac, and we never found the showers that were supposedly on site. The acorns were falling, and we nearly jumped out of bed when they struck our roof! No fault of the campground, but a mild annoyance nevertheless. There is a camp store but we didn't visit it. The nearby town of Carlyle has a Walmart and several fast food eateries, but only one independent restaurant, Mexican , which came highly recommended. We met campers that return here often, but it was our first time. We would stay again if in the area.

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 breese off the lake kept it from feeling hot out. 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 (site #76) which happened to have a nice view of the lake and several short trails down to the water. There was a sand/beach area and plenty of firewood around. Our site was narrow and tighter than we prefer, but the location and view made up for that! Most of the sites in the camper are larger and more open. 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. Walmart is just 5-10min away if needed as well as restaurants, gas station, and other amenities in Carlyle nearby. The camp hosts were nice and very helpful! When our electric wasn’t working, they sent a tech over right away and he has us up and running in no time. We highly recommend this campground!