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The best camping near Carlyle Lake, IL

95% (635)

The best camping in Carlyle Lake, IL

Boulder Campground

1. Boulder Campground

Campground in Carlyle Lake · 82 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Located near a 26,000 acre sparkling lake, Boulder Recreation Area is just waiting for your sweet, sweet presence

Public campgrounds in Carlyle Lake are often sold-out.

Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

2. Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

Campground in Carlyle Lake · 119 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Round up your old college crew, Coles Creek Rec Area is the place to host nostalgic reunions this side of Carlyle Lake

Illini Campground

3. Illini Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area · 366 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

When they said Mile after magnificent mile; right here, right now they really weren’t kidding

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

4. Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Carlyle Lake · 109 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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

Stephen A. Forbes Campground

5. Stephen A. Forbes Campground

Campground in Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area · 55 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Beautiful, glassy waters, picturesque shoreline, lush green foliage—pretty much hits the spot right there

Grove On Top Possum Hill

6. Grove On Top Possum Hill

96%

(378)

Worden, IL · 4 sites

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Happy Trails Farm Resort

7. Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%

(189)

Granite City, IL · 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

Toilets

Campfires

from

$36

/ night

Timberline Ridge

8. Timberline Ridge

100%

(12)

Carlinville, IL · 3 sites · Tents, 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. 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

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Glamp Games Forest Surround

9. Glamp Games Forest Surround

Oakdale, IL · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy games, camping, and a few short walking trails by the creek.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$50

/ night

Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

10. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

100%

(13)

Marissa, IL · 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

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Washington County Campground

11. Washington County Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Washington County State Recreational Area · 39 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Got a hankering for a bit of outdoor relaxation? Whether you want to kick it lakeside or get out on the water for some boating or fishing, you will love crashing at Washington County Campground

Hickory Grove

12. Hickory Grove

Campground in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area · 45 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

A Class C site that sports the essentials, Hickory Grove Campground is located in a densely wooded area on the east side of Lake Ramsey

White Oak Campground

13. White Oak Campground

Campground in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area · 90 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

White Oak Campground is a Class A site at the southern end of Lake Ramsey and has convenient access to a hiking trail, children’s playground and lake recreation

Sam Dale Lake Campground

14. Sam Dale Lake Campground

Campground in Sam Dale Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area · 69 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Fancy a few days out on the water? Sam Dale Lake Campground is the perfect spot to hit up, with just the right amount of lush, green foliage to keep you cool when you can’t soak up any more sun

Horseshoe Lake Campground

15. Horseshoe Lake Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Horseshoe Lake State Park · 48 sites

With all that’s going on in the park, you may just need a full weekend at Horseshoe Lake Campground to explore it and really take some time off the grid

Horseshoe Lake Group Camp

16. Horseshoe Lake Group Camp

Lodging in Horseshoe Lake State Park · 1 site

If your tribe is thriving and consists of more a few peeps, check out Horseshoe Lake Group Camp

Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground

17. Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground

Campground in Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area · 33 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

With prime access to the epic 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir, Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground is the place to be

Gun Creek Campground

18. Gun Creek Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Rend Lake · 100 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

RVers, we present your newfound home on Rend Lake

Pyramid Campground

19. Pyramid Campground

100%

(4)

Campground in Pyramid State Recreation Area · 68 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Overnight stays at Pyramid Campground are a solid way to make sure you get your fix of such a massive recreational area

Dale Miller Youth Campground

20. Dale Miller Youth Campground

Campground in Rend Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

If you're looking to diversify your camping tastes, Dale Miller Youth Campground is the place to experiment

95% (635)

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Top-rated campgrounds near Carlyle Lake

Grove On Top Possum Hill

96%

(378)

Worden, IL · 4 sites

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%

(189)

Granite City, IL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$36

/ night

Timberline Ridge

100%

(12)

Carlinville, IL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Glamp Games Forest Surround

Oakdale, IL · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy games, camping, and a few short walking trails by the creek.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$50

/ night

Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

100%

(13)

Marissa, IL · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Middle Eden

91%

(11)

Fairview Heights, IL · 2 sites

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.

Campfires

Potable water

from

$12

/ night

The Farm Girl and Friends

98%

(87)

Litchfield, IL · 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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$27

/ night

Crystal’s Campground

90%

(29)

Vernon, IL · 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

Triangle H Farm, LLC

91%

(53)

Edwardsville , IL · 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!

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Electrical hookup

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from

$40

/ night

Camp Lakewood Campground

94%

(18)

Effingham, IL · 58 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.

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Full hookups

from

$51

/ night

Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

Millstadt, IL · 1 site

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.

Campfires

Toilets

Picnic table

from

$33

/ night

Harmony Hill Acres

98%

(29)

Centralia, IL · 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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$10

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

April

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

Great simple land. There were goats and some chickens. Also a very friendly family dog that made us feel extra safe. The host was very quick to respond! Will book again in future.

Mary

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

We loved the quiet calm of being on her land. The space was very clean and the spot was nice and level. We look forward to staying again when we can enjoy a nice outdoor fire and all of the shade trees.

amanda

3 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

1 night at Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

Super private. I was the only one there. The gravel bad was nice and level. We took the path to the right of the Y and walked to the big pond and kept going all the way to the back little pond. Sorry if we weren’t supposed to go that far. We saw deer and rabbit tracks on the snow. It was so quiet and had a pretty view. The dogs enjoyed running around and getting in all the wild smells. - text the hosts to let them know when I was arriving and to reach out if I needed anything. - direction to property are straight forward Apple Maps took me straight there. - parking was a breeze. - I used 30 amp and for some reason I tripped a breaker. Not sure what happened there but everything was fine. - cell service for me was fine. (att) - environment was quiet. You are next to a road but traffic was light. You could hear the woodpecker and other birds doing their thing. Sky was crystal clear. You could see every star in the sky.

Sam

January 2026

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Timberline Ridge

Nice quiet spot. Not far from Gateway Arch. Pull thru is a little tight if you have a bigger trailer (30+ feet).

Monica

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

We absolutely had a fantastic weekend camping on this lovely piece of land. We love that it is local to us so we can take a little getaway weekend now and then. Everything about this property is just cool. There are sheep, chickens and the coolest dog you'll ever meet! This is the kind of place that you want to tell everyone about but want to keep to yourself, too! Cant wait to come back.

Monica

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

Middle Eden is an absolute *find*. I am local to this host and just wanted to find a nice quiet place to occasionally get away! It was hard to believe we weren't out in secluded backcountry, but close enough to get back home if needed and there's sheep, chickens and a really cool, really sweet dog! My husband and I absolutely needed this reset and we will be back!

Brie

December 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Crystal’s Campground

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.

Monica

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

Unfortunately, I was unable to stay due to illness. Jeffrey was gracious and I will be reserving again soon! 🤞🤞

Lori

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Timberline Ridge

We had a wonderful stay at Lindsey’s land! Our spot was beautiful/private and we loved how gorgeous our view was. We definitely plan to return one day!

David

November 2025

23 ft travel trailer

5 nights at Camp Lakewood Campground

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!

Adrian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Middle Eden

Such a beautiful place! Safe and secure! I enjoyed being welcomed by the sweetest dog, she lead me right where to set up for the night. Waking up on a beautiful piece of land with sheep, chickens, fluffy sweet doggo, it was such a fun and much needed experience. 10/10 highly recommend!!

Brian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Happy Trails Farm Resort

It was private and easy. THere was plenty of room to park car and set up my tent.

Samuel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

BEAUTIFUL property. Owner is super nice and they love sharing the property that they have built. 10/10 would recommend!

Kyle

October 2025

2 nights at Timberline Ridge

This was a wonderful place to unwind. The house had pretty much everything you could need. I was able to show up with just the clothing and food that I needed. I was there during the week so it was extremely quiet and peaceful. My favorite part was kayaking on the pond (kayak and paddle board provided). The host also responded very quickly to any questions I had. I would definitely stay again.

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

It was very nice. The hosts were very friendly. Would definitely stay again

Alana

October 2025

12 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Emerald Acres Farm

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.