100% (1)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Carlyle Lake
Harmony Hill Acres
Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(29)
14mi from Carlyle Lake · 35 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
from
$10
/ night
Crystal’s Campground
Crystal’s Campground
90%
(29)
19mi from Carlyle Lake · 15 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
from
$35
/ night
The Quiet Countryside
The Quiet Countryside
99%
(79)
26mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$30
/ night
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(10)
31mi 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
from
$35
/ night
Emerald Acres Farm
Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(70)
36mi from Carlyle Lake · 3 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
from
$25
/ night
Triangle H Farm, LLC
Triangle H Farm, LLC
91%
(53)
40mi 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
from
$40
/ night
Happy Trails Farm Resort
Happy Trails Farm Resort
94%
(189)
44mi from Carlyle Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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
from
$36
/ night
The Farm Girl and Friends
The Farm Girl and Friends
98%
(87)
45mi from Carlyle Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
from
$27
/ night
Urban Surprise
Urban Surprise
98%
(27)
46mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site
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
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Glamp Games Forest Surround
Glamp Games Forest Surround
24mi from Carlyle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy games, camping, and a few short walking trails by the creek.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
I-55 RV Park
I-55 RV Park
100%
(4)
32mi 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
from
$50
/ night
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
81%
(16)
35mi 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
from
$28
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
P
Paul
2 weeks ago
28 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great little spot close to downtown attractions. I felt safe there and the setup was great for passing through on a quick trip.
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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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B
Brian
November 2025
Tent
It was private and easy. THere was plenty of room to park car and set up my tent.
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A
Alana
October 2025
12 ft campervan
With kids
Camping at the farm was a truly cozy and welcoming experience. The site was easy to locate and simple to pull into, making arrival a breeze. Conveniently situated near the bathrooms and showers—which were impressively clean and well-maintained. The animals were very friendly, adding to the peaceful surroundings. We enjoyed the hiking trails, which were clearly marked and offered a great way to explore the property. The hosts were inviting. We'd be thrilled to return for another stay.
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Deena
October 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Beautiful setting. Easy to get there and pull up. Nice to see the animals. Quiet.
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Eric
October 2025
18 ft campervan
Beautiful setting and animal watching. Had a peaceful night under the stars.
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E
Elizabeth
October 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With kids
We loved our stay. The park was great with wonderful hosts!
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J
Jason
October 2025
Tent
Wonderful place! Very spacious and was exactly what we needed when we were in the area.
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C
Chris
October 2025
Tent
I enjoyed the secluded location and the quiet setting. I would stay again.
See moreE
Ellie
October 2025
Tent
With kids
We loved tent camping on Marcy’s land. The views were beautiful. My kids loved seeing the horses.
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J
Jenna
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Trent was an excellent communicator and host. This site is beautiful, safe, quiet, and convenient to 70. We will be back next year.
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J
Jacci
September 2025
23 ft toy hauler
Very quaint, quiet campsite! Terri and Daniel were terrific hosts. Their property was landscaped with a beach theme. So beautiful!
See moreJ
Jenna
September 2025
Tent
We loved staying at the Positive Outlook site. It was beautiful and felt so welcoming with the lights and snacks. We plan to camp here again! Great communication from Trent.
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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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T
Tracy
August 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
We had a great trip to Happy Trails Farm. It was perfect for us. We loved seeing all the animals and the people on the farm were very friendly. Thank you for a wonderful stay.
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Renée
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Brady’s place was just right for a one-night stopover on my cross-country trip! There is soft grass for pitching a tent, and a graveled area if you have a trailer. Brady provides a small picnic table, a cooking table, and several chairs, all under a spacious canopy for protection from rain (or hot sun!). There are also lights, an electric outlet, and a hose for fresh water. The outdoor shower is wonderful! There’s also a comfy swinging bench for watching the sun set over the small pond.
My only caveat is that the area is pretty close to the road, with no barrier. There wasn’t a lot of traffic and little to none at night (so noise wasn’t an issue), but you do have to keep an eye on kids or your dog so they don’t run into the road.
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M
Madeline
August 2025
22 ft Class B
With pets
We absolutely loved this spot and wish we could’ve stayed longer to enjoy this calm, quaint HipCamp! The hot shower was a huge bonus!
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S
Stacy
August 2025
40 ft toy hauler
With pets
We had a peaceful stay. Loved the convenience to the World Shooting Complex and nearby restaurants. Our son enjoyed fishing in the pond. Caught one bass, a couple turtles and had a catfish on, but he managed to get off the hook before getting it all the way in to bank. Everything was released back into the pond. We also visited the nearby Pyramid State Recreation Area where he caught a couple more bass. We will definitely keep this place in mind for the future.
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A
Amy Jo
August 2025
31 ft travel trailer
Beautiful spot, thoughtful owner. Really the best spot we’ve ever been. Caught lots of bass, there’s a little place down the road that serves chicken wings and drinks!
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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.
See more 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