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Carlyle Lake, situated in the heart of Illinois, is a vibrant destination that caters to a diverse array of travelers. For adventure seekers, the lake offers an array of activities including boating, sailing, and fishing, with its favorable winds making it one of the top sailing lakes in the country. Eldon Hazlet State Park, located on the eastern shore, provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swimming beach, set against a backdrop of lush woodlands and scenic shoreline.
Wellness enthusiasts can find tranquility in the Dam West Recreation Area, where panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape create a perfect setting for picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. Families will appreciate the various campgrounds, including the public campground at Eldon Hazlet State Park, which features shaded and lakeview sites, a store, pool, and playground.
Culture and history are also within reach at the Clinton County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the region’s rich heritage through exhibits on Native American culture, pioneer settlements, and agriculture. Annual events like the Carlyle Lake Duck and Goose Festival, the Carlyle Lake Regatta, and the Carlyle Lake Fish Fest add to the dynamic atmosphere, making Carlyle Lake an engaging and multifaceted travel destination.
- Surface area (mi)
- 65.37
- Max depth (ft)
- 35.1
- Elevation (ft)
- 1459.97
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 85
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Waterskiing
- Jet Skiing
- Boating
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Carlyle Lake
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Carlyle Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Carlyle Lake. Beach users must stay within these designated areas, which are marked by buoys to ensure safety. Life jacket loaner stations are also available at these beaches.
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Carlyle Lake is a popular destination because it offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, with several marinas and campgrounds available. The lake is also known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, including guided birdwatching tours and annual sailing regattas.
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The daily creel limits and minimum length requirements for Carlyle Lake are as follows: Largemouth or Smallmouth Bass, 14 inches, 6 fish per day; White, Black, or hybrid Crappie, 10 inches, 15 fish per day; Walleye and Sauger, 14 inches, 6 fish in combination. White Bass have no limit if under 17 inches, but a 3-fish limit if 17 inches or longer, combined with Striped and Yellow Bass.
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Both Keyesport Beach and Dam West Beach are good for families. Keyesport Beach is quieter and has restrooms and playgrounds, while Dam West Beach, near the Visitor Center, also has showers and can be more convenient, despite being more crowded on summer weekends. Both have roped-off swimming areas.
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Towns near Carlyle Lake include Aviston, Bartelso, Beckemeyer, Breese, Germantown, and Huey. These towns are all located in Clinton County, Illinois, and are in close proximity to Carlyle Lake. They are part of the local communities surrounding the lake.
