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This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Carlyle Lake adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Carlyle Lake
Dam West Recreation Area and Campground
1. Dam West Recreation Area and Campground
100%
(1)
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
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Boulder Campground
2. Boulder Campground
Located near a 26,000 acre sparkling lake, Boulder Recreation Area is just waiting for your sweet, sweet presence
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground
3. Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground
Round up your old college crew, Coles Creek Rec Area is the place to host nostalgic reunions this side of Carlyle Lake
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Top-rated campsites near Carlyle Lake
Camp Lakewood Campground
1. Camp Lakewood Campground
95%
(19)
42mi from Carlyle Lake · 54 sites
Welcome to Camp Lakewood Campground!
We are your premier Campground in Effingham, Illinois. We are proudly family-owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. Kiefer Campgrounds are part of a collection of parks that spare no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST!
We are ideally located within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, and we are open year round. We are also golf-cart friendly.
Give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.
Pets
Full hookups
Crystal’s Campground
2. Crystal’s Campground
91%
(33)
7.4mi from Carlyle Lake · 3 sites
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
Full hookups
Harmony Hill Acres
3. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(30)
19mi from Carlyle Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots.
We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access.
The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move.
We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds.
***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Emerald Acres Farm
4. Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(71)
38mi from Carlyle Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
The Farm Girl and Friends
5. The Farm Girl and Friends
98%
(87)
41mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Triangle H Farm, LLC
6. Triangle H Farm, LLC
90%
(55)
45mi from Carlyle Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Electrical hookup
Pets
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
7. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(15)
46mi from Carlyle Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience.
Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes. When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area.
Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.
Pets
Full hookups
Timberline Ridge
8. Timberline Ridge
100%
(18)
46mi from Carlyle Lake · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
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.
Our pond is ready for your big catch with bluegill, bass and crappie.
Pets
Full hookups
Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
9. Bear Creek Farm and Ranch
100%
(856)
50mi from Carlyle Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We purchased our 45 acre farm in 1997, since then we have operated a sustainable small organic farm.
In January of 2018 we purchased 58 more acres that is attached to our land.
The property has a greenhouse and about a half acre of field that we raise vegetables and fruit on.
We have a 3 acre pond with a naturally sustaining fish population, that we swim and boat in. We have some news for everyone from new campers to those that have visited before, we had our pond dredged this fall and winter (2025-2026). this was a much needed improvement for the ecology of the pond and it's inhabitants. We do want everyone to know it will look different for a while. There were trees that had to be removed from the north and east side of the pond, and until we can get the soil moved that came out of the pond, there will be piles of soil around the pond. The depth of the pond will be low until we receive enough rain to fill it back up (we didn't drain it completely, but it is much lower right now). We are keeping site 2 closed for 2026 so the grass has a chance to grow back. We will be adding a few more sites once the pond area is landscaped. There are hiking trails that go through many small pastures and woods with streams running through them.
Plenty of wildlife, hiking and mountain biking areas. We have a certified kitchen at the farm and have products raised and/or made on the farm for folks to purchase.
Ice is available at the farm $5/8 pound bag.
Supposedly our house is haunted and there are a couple of haunted sites within 15 miles of the farm, Anderson Cemetery and Witch's Bridge.
Nearby Taylorville has a Walmart, Aldi, Kroger, and many small local businesses. There is a YMCA and a few parks, in Taylorville.
Lake Sangchris State Park is close by. The capital of Illinois, Springfield, is 35 miles from the farm.
Pets
I-55 RV Park
10. I-55 RV Park
100%
(4)
37mi from Carlyle Lake · 20 sites
Welcome to I-55 RV Park
We are a brand new, big-rig friendly RV park right off the highway where we will do our utmost to make your stay relaxing and memorable.
Please note, we do not have a bathhouse or bathroom at this time.
We have a strict leash rule for your pets.
We look forward to having you stay with us!
Come enjoy a nice and relaxing stay at our brand new RV park. We are big rig friendly with 20 full-hook up sites (water, electric, sewer). We are located right off Highways I-55 and 143 at Exit 23. Edwardsville, Plummer Family Park, World Wide Technology Raceway, Nickel Plate Bike Trail, Downtown St. Louis, and many other tourist destinations are nearby.
Pets
Full hookups
Bubba J's RV Park
11. Bubba J's RV Park
88%
(4)
45mi from Carlyle Lake · 13 sites
Welcome to Bubba J's RV Park.
85' + Pull Throughs with FULL hookups - 20/30/50 Amp Electric - year-round water (bring a pressure regulator, our water pressure is great!)- 4" sewer.
Huge clean restrooms (sorry, no showers).
Each site has a picnic table and fire pit (firewood NOT provided so please bring your own).
Pets
Full hookups
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
12. Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
81%
(16)
50mi from Carlyle Lake · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the Village of New Athens RV Park! We sincerely appreciate your choice to stay with us. As you settle in, we're thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our campgrounds and the warmth of our community.
Our park offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. You'll find convenient water hookups and sewer connections, along with waterfront views that promise a serene and picturesque experience. Embrace the outdoors at our picnic area and explore the surrounding landscapes, as we happily welcome pets, making your stay pet-friendly. For the adventurous souls, we have hike and bike campsites, providing opportunities for thrilling exploration on our gravel roads.
Should you require any essentials during your stay, rest assured, we have gasoline available nearby. And as the evening settles in, gather around the fire pit, where cherished memories are created, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers.
While you're here, don't miss out on the various activities we offer. Cast a line and indulge in the art of fishing, or take to the waters for a boating adventure that promises to be both invigorating and unforgettable.
Once again, thank you for being our guest. We look forward to making your time with us truly memorable as you embrace the wonders of our Village of New Athens RV Park. Happy exploring!
Pets
Full hookups
Brokn L Camp
13. Brokn L Camp
100%
(5)
38mi from Carlyle Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Brokn L Camp has 10 rolling acres with two campsites. Our Fireside site has two rock-pads for a tent or RV with a water spigot nearby. The 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.
Water hookup
Pets
20-30 Stopover
14. 20-30 Stopover
38mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site
Looking for an easy, no-fuss place to park for the night? This basic RV stopover at 201 South Seventh Street in Benld offers a convenient and relaxed setting for travellers passing through.
Situated on a quiet corner lot, this spot is just 4 miles from a main highway, close enough for easy access, yet far enough to enjoy a more peaceful stop. It’s perfect for a quick overnight stay or a laid-back break from the road.
Right next door, you’ll find the local favourite Cabin Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy great burgers, cold drinks, and a friendly small-town atmosphere just steps from your RV.
You’ll also appreciate being close to a gas station, making it easy to refuel and get back on your way.
This site is best suited for self-contained RVs, as there are no toilet or bathroom facilities on-site.
Whether you're road-tripping or just need a comfortable stopover, this spot keeps things simple and convenient.
Pets
La Forêt
15. La Forêt
38mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive camping at its best. Park and camp in lush forest. It's Bigfoot land! Luckily it's minutes to all the city amenities. Close to cinema, coffee shops, art museum, water park, little league tournaments, restaurants, airport and interstate highway. Yet so secluded that you can get away and leave civilization behind. La Forêt has six acres of land with deer, rabbit, turtles, beavers, and so many birds. You can adventure into the six acres of thick forest at your own risk. Bring your insect spray. Thick forest can get you lost, so take precautions if you dare to venture.
Parking is best for 30' and under vehicles. There is a table, two chairs and a canopy for your pleasure. Please do not move the table. The security is good as the storage facility nearby has surveillance cameras and 24 hour lights. Camp where you feel comfortable.
Public toilets can be found in any direction. Lots of gas stations and one even has showers for $12. They provide towel, wash cloths and soap. There are electrical outlets in public park pavilions to charge up power banks.
Grills are allowed but please stay on gravel driveway. Enjoy the peacefulness of the forest. Trees emit volatile organic compounds known as "phytoncides". Inhaling these airborne compounds lowers stress hormones (like cortisol) and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system.
Pets
Archway RV Park
16. Archway RV Park
36mi from Carlyle Lake
At Archway RV Park, we pride ourselves on creating a unique family-oriented atmosphere where every guest is treated like one of our own. From the moment you step onto our grounds, you’ll be welcomed by our friendly staff, dedicated to ensuring your stay is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible after a long journey.
Our park is conveniently open year-round and easily accessible from the Interstate, making it a perfect stop for travelers. We offer spacious, level, full-hookup pull-through sites that are designed to accommodate big rigs. Pet lovers will appreciate our pet-friendly policy, and for your convenience, we also provide propane for sale on-site.
In addition to RV sites, we feature cozy cabins, exciting glamper pods, and rental campers, catering to a variety of camping preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Archway RV Park is the ideal destination. Come visit us and discover why you’ll love your stay!
Pets
Full hookups
Sherwood Forest Campground
17. Sherwood Forest Campground
30mi from Carlyle Lake
Nestled in a serene wooded environment, Sherwood Forest Campground offers a unique escape adjacent to the picturesque Hillsboro Lake. This tranquil setting makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The campground features a total of 113 permanent campsites and 16 short-term sites, along with two host sites, ensuring ample options for all types of campers. Each site is equipped with electrical and water hookups, and a convenient dump station is available within the campground for added ease.
Campers can enjoy clean and well-maintained facilities, including a shower house and a public comfort station, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additional amenities include a covered stage for events, pavilions for gatherings, and a playground for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Whether you're looking to relax by the lake, explore nearby hiking trails, or enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Sherwood Forest Campground provides a perfect blend of comfort and adventure in a beautiful natural setting.
Pets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Llew
3 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
Beautiful setting. Very clean bathroom.
I didn't get a picnic table at my site. : (
See more
N
Nacim
May 2026
40 ft travel trailer
Easy to find and access. Plenty of spots alongside other RVs. Hot shower and laundry are definitely plus. Very beautiful site with a pond to fish in amongst picturesque farmlands.
See more
Breckin
April 2026
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a great weekend at Timberline Ridge! The weekend did start off with a power issue but just a few moments after I sent a message the owners were out to rectify the issue. Couldn't have asked for a better response. The site is absolutely beautiful overlooking the lake. Would recommend for a nice relaxing weekend!
See more
C
CHARLES
April 2026
25 ft Class C
With pets
Very peaceful. They provide wood for that campfire which was extremely helpful as our stove was dead in the RV, so we had to use it for cooking. Wonderful place to camp.
Met the owner and she mentioned they do several events for veterans groups including the coming weekend. As a former Marine it was great to hear.
See morem
mark
March 2026
16 ft car
Good place to drop a tent for the night. I didn’t stay there very long so it’s hard for me to give a thorough breakdown. But it’s good for campers and people with RVs.
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lena
February 2026
18 ft Class B
With pets
It's always lovely staying here. I really appreciate Crystal's campground amenities (heated bathroom with shower, laundry facility) and the serene atmosphere here. My dogs and I feel very comfy and I loved looking up at the stars at night. As a solo woman traveler I feel very safe here each time I visit.
Thank you for everything, Crystal!
See moreS
Sam
January 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
Nice quiet spot. Not far from Gateway Arch. Pull thru is a little tight if you have a bigger trailer (30+ feet).
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Brie
December 2025
16 ft car
It was a safe place to stay, and the bathrooms had a heater in them which was nice given how cold it was. There was no hand soap or toilet paper, so prepare accordingly. The website and listing doesn’t make it exactly clear but this is largely an open concept RV park, limited wildlife, with several long term residents. It is right next door to a pipeline plant that has very bright lights on all night long. It isn’t the most peaceful location because of that, and isn’t where I’d recommend going to for a getaway retreat. But it is safe and has some nice amenities. Worked out good for a place to sleep on a long roadtrip. Also just as an fyi for the potable water, there is a hookup setup for water if you have an RV. If you do not have an RV though, you will need to use the bathroom sink. We boiled it and it was fine.
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David
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Camp Lakewood was perfect for the few nights I stayed there. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Plus, it was really nice to have Fatso's Pizza just a 30 second walk away. The pizza there was excellent!
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Elizabeth
October 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With kids
We loved our stay. The park was great with wonderful hosts!
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Waylon
September 2025
32 ft Class A
With pets
Camp Lakewood is a small and quiet campground. Just minutes off I-70. Our site (22) backed right up to the lake. Very friendly staff and Fatso's (on location pizza, wings, ice cream, and more) has some of the best pizza we've ever had! We will definitely visit again!
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Jane
August 2025
15 ft pop-up camper
With pets
The site is pretty much what we expected as based on images from the website, but it was also much more. We had an unfortunate event or three prior to arriving, let the host know our pop up was not working properly but we had a tent. She was welcoming and friendly.
it is difficult to put into words the calm I felt sitting on the patio feeling the cool breeze off the pond and listening to the music of splashing water.
Another "wow" moment was the fact that the host had a family party on the private area across the pond and we really didn't hear much at all.
The bathroom/shower was clean and the water was hot.
the sites are new gravel, so keep toes and soles in mind. the play area and firepit seemed inviting. This place is highly recommended.
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Amanda
August 2025
34 ft fifth wheel
Place was amazing. It was easy to find and pull into. Crystal was very attentive to made sure we had contact if we needed anything right away. It was very pretty and peaceful. Bonus, all the other campers staying there were super friendly! Would definitely go back if in the area again.
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V
Vernon
July 2025
28 ft travel trailer
We stayed here as a stopover and couldn’t have been more pleased. The RV park is well-kept and easy to access, making it a perfect place to rest during a travel day. What really stood out were the owners—genuinely kind, welcoming, and helpful. You can tell they care about making sure guests have a good experience. Whether you're passing through or staying a bit longer, this is a solid spot. Would absolutely stay again!
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J
Joshua
July 2025
33 ft travel trailer
With pets
One of the best camp sites we’ve ever had. Pull in site. Water pressure was great. Dump tank pipe was perfect distance. Campground was very clean and quiet. The point is by far the best site in the camp ground. Water on 3 sides. If we didn’t live 6 hours away, we would camp here every weekend. Very level site. Gavel pad. Fire ring is small, but portable. We never saw the host. Local PD drove through a few times. New Athens Police cheif said they never have issues in the campground. 10/10 would recommend.
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Robert
June 2025
21 ft campervan
Very nice campground, great playground for the kids and very clean facilities!
Would definitely return!
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S
Sarah
May 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fantastic views! Very peaceful and private. We will be back. Highly recommend! Thank you for the most relaxing camping experience.
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Debbie
May 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
Nice, clean camping facility. Holiday weekend Saturday night only. Only one other family camping. We appreciated the peacefulness. Full camping amenities ( electric, water & sewer hookups) plus onsite restroom, shower & laundry room if needed. We enjoyed utilizing the fire ring. Beautiful evening to sit by the fire. The host responded quickly when we had a question about how to use the water system. We stopped on our return to from Branson MO to Ohio. We would stay again without hesitation.
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J
Justin
May 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With kids
100% would recommend this place. Quiet, fishing was great, hosts were welcoming, and offered plenty of fire wood w/seating next to the lake. We will definitely be returning to this location.
See moreB
Bryan
April 2025
40 ft fifth wheel
With pets
This was a wonderful place to stay. Secluded in a beautiful area that was quite and just overall relaxing. The hosts were very communicative and upon our arrival showed us where trails were, etc. Still close to Carlinville which has a Walmart, dollar general, and dollar tree for any items you might need. We really enjoyed our time here and extended literally our first night as we enjoyed the serenity it provided!
See moreReviews for Carlyle Lake Campgrounds
100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· May 2017
Nice place to camp. Bathrooms and showers. Nice little beach area
A
Angie A.
9 years on Hipcamp
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