Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

In
Carlyle Lake
·
100%
·
1 review
109 sites · RV, Tent
If you're hoping to do it all, Dam West Recreation Area offers the most amenities of all the campgrounds on Carlyle Lake, hands down. Stay in one of the lodges or camp in your tent or RV to enjoy it, either way you'll have to make time to for a splash at the beaches or in the pool. Fishing piers and cleaning stations make this an angler's paradise, and don't forget to stretch out those calf muscles by bike or foot on one of the many gorgeous, winding trails. Pure perfection.
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
Showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
Sewage hookups
No electric hookups
109 sites
RV, Tent
Explore 392 campgrounds near Carlyle Lake
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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Carlyle Lake

  • Communal Fire Area
  • Front Entrance Road view, and graveled parking at pony pen.
  • Communal Fire Area

Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%
(189)
43mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Granite City, IL
Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life. We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale). There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you. We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more. We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645 Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282. We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations. Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out; horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others. We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community. We look forward to seeing you on the farm! Check-in is between 2pm-9pm. No late night check-ins. Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation. Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection.  We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals. Come pitch a tent under the farm stars. Happy Trails :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
  • Urban Surprise
  • Urban Surprise
  • Urban Surprise

Urban Surprise

98%
(26)
45mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · RV · St. Louis, MO
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area full hookups 20, 30 and 50 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium 3 miles, Gateway Arch 2.8 miles, Forest Park and Zoo 7.2 miles, St Louis City SC 2 miles, Convention Center 2 miles and Worldwide Technology Raceway 5.3 miles. Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area (6' Chain link) with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'. Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires. Unfortunately, due to multiple irresponsible pet owners, we no longer allow pets. The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history. We offer discounts for stays over 7 days. Just message us your proposed dates. There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8
Potable water
Trash
from 
$50
 / night
  • Crystal’s Campground
  • Crystal’s Campground
  • Crystal’s Campground

Crystal’s Campground

89%
(28)
19mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 15 sites · RVs · Vernon, IL
Crystal’s Campground is located on 15 acres. We have 29 sites with full hookup at each site. We are open year round. Our campground has a nice pond with some nice size fish. We have a pavilion with a laundromat and a shower house. We also have a playground for kids.if you’re looking for a nice secluded getaway, you have found it ❤️
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
  • Phes
  • Phes
  • Phes

Phes

47mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · Tent, RV · East Carondelet, IL
Quiet place with beautiful sunsets, relax areas and an apple tree ♡ area for reading around nature, a firepit area, close to a river
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$20
 / night
  • Timberline Ridge
  • Timberline Ridge
  • Timberline Ridge

Timberline Ridge

100%
(11)
49mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carlinville, IL
Welcome to Timberline Ridge-Tiny Living! We host a tiny cabin and two RV spots. Located in an open area, the cabin and camper sites create a warm, communal atmosphere. Enjoy shared amenities like a fire pit and a peaceful pond—with kayaks and a paddle board. A perfect spot to unwind and connect with fellow travelers. Tiny Piney: Escape to our charming tiny log cabin nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for couples, families and solo travelers seeking a serene retreat, our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Relax on the spacious deck and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With nearby hiking trails and quaint local shops, there’s plenty to explore during your stay. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in our tranquil hideaway. Please be advised we are in the process of growing our fish population to ensure a thriving ecosystem for everyone to enjoy. The pond currently has hybrid bluegill ready to catch. Our sister property does have a fully stocked pond a short walk away.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
  • The Quiet Countryside
  • The Quiet Countryside
  • The Quiet Countryside

The Quiet Countryside

99%
(79)
26mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · Tent, RV · Vandalia, IL
Easy access for campers located by a pond. Great for fishing and relaxing! 30 AMP electric hookup, can accommodate water fill up and sewer dump. There is a covered pavilion with picnic table and chairs. There is a grill and a fire pit. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway you will love it here! Located close to the interstate. Plenty of restaurants near by and Vandalia lake is 8 minutes from campsite.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
  • Triangle H Farm, LLC
  • Relax at many spaces on the property!
  • Triangle H Farm, LLC

Triangle H Farm, LLC

91%
(53)
39mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Edwardsville , IL
Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
  • Emerald Acres Farm
  • Visit our furry friends.
  • Emerald Acres Farm

Emerald Acres Farm

99%
(70)
36mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Worden, IL
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
  • Middle Eden
  • Lots of open space under the cool canopy
  • Middle Eden

Middle Eden

83%
(6)
36mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · Tents · Fairview Heights, IL
Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers. Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities Each site features an established campfire ring and complimentary firewood—perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking (depending on your chosen spot). Secure Parking Note Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping. Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$12
 / night
  • Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
  • Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
  • Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%
(11)
44mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL
We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request. Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$33
 / night
  • The Farm Girl and Friends
  • The Farm Girl and Friends
  • The Farm Girl and Friends

The Farm Girl and Friends

98%
(87)
44mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Litchfield, IL
This land is a working animal farm. There are many farm animals to see here. You can pet goats, donkeys, rabbits, and many more. Located off of the Litchfield exit on interstate 55 just 52 miles from STL... Bring your Camper or pitch a tent on site of a working animal farm. If you like panoramic views of gorgeous sunsets, petting farm animals, relaxing in a peaceful setting this place is for you. Just minutes from shopping and restaurants in Litchfield. It’s about a 5 minute drive to Gillespie lake where the fishing is excellent also they have a really nice beach roped off for swimming and it’s free of charge. Experience taking a nice hot shower in an outdoor shower. Also there is a sink with running water available and a private porta-potty. There is one 50 amp electric outlet for a camper Available for an additional $10 a night fee. Which can be reduced to 30 amps if needed. Please let us know at the time of booking to reserve the electrical outlet otherwise we cannot guarantee availability. This is a delightful place to be if your searching for that farm experience! Come visit for a night or stay a few days I’ve been told by many of my visitors that they want to live here! Warning if you are not fond of animals or if you are allergic to cats or dogs this probably isn’t a good choice for you. Update due to social distancing and Covid-19 we have widened our campsites to create more privacy. We are honored to be chosen for Illinois and featured in the October 1 edition of Outside magazine. Like us on Facebook on The Farm Girl and Friends Petting Zoo page
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
  • Fireside camping pad is close to outhouse, fire pit and fire wood storage.
  • The Brokn L Camp
  • Fireside camping pad is close to outhouse, fire pit and fire wood storage.

The Brokn L Camp

100%
(3)
37mi from Dam West Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bluford, IL
The Brokn L Camp has 10 rolling acres with campsites. The property has two rock-pad sites for a tent or RV with a water spigot nearby. Our Positive Outlook site offers primitive tent camping with tree coverage. All campers have access to the outhouse facility, the lean-to, and the large fire-pit with free fire wood. Throughout the 10 acres campers can also use the private walking/ATV paths. The property is located right next to our 20 acre horse pasture and across the road from our horse riding arena. Campers can check on the availability for additional options to ride horses, rent a golf cart, and purchase fresh farm eggs.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$18
 / night

More to explore nearby

100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· May 2017
Nice place to camp. Bathrooms and showers. Nice little beach area
A
Angie A.
8 years on Hipcamp
LocationDam West Recreation Area and Campground, Carlyle Lake, Illinois, United States
Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
Showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
Sewage hookups
No electric hookups

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Top parks near Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

Barkley Lake
Lake Barkley State Resort Park
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Chickasaw State Park
Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park
Edgar Evins State Park

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