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Lake Carlinville, a serene and expansive 355-acre lake in central Illinois, offers a diverse array of activities for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families. Built in 1939, this lake serves not only as a source of drinking water but also as a vibrant recreational hub. Here, you can engage in boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, with the lake well-stocked with crappie, blue catfish, channel catfish, and bluegill. The surrounding campgrounds provide RV and tent camping sites, playgrounds, beaches, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for family vacations.
Nearby, the historic town of Carlinville beckons with its rich heritage. Visit the Million Dollar Courthouse and the 1869 Cannonball Jail, both offering free tours that delve into the region’s storied past. The Macoupin County Visitors Center is a must-stop for mapping out the Carlinville History Trails, which include sites from Abraham Lincoln’s time in the area. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Beaver Dam State Park, just a short drive away, offers hiking trails, nature study, and additional camping options. Whether you’re looking for historical exploration, outdoor escapades, or simple relaxation, Lake Carlinville and its environs promise a fulfilling and memorable travel experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.39
- Max depth (ft)
- 18.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 567.59
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 5.62
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Swimming
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Marinas on Lake Carlinville
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Carlinville has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, you can swim in Lake Carlinville. Swimming is allowed from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and it is permitted within the designated beachfront area only. No lifeguard is provided, and swimmers under 16 must be accompanied by someone 16 or older.
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Lake Carlinville is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. It is open for boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, with campgrounds that include RV and tent sites, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The lake is also known for its good fishing spots, with species like crappie, blue catfish, and bluegill.
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At Lake Carlinville in Illinois, you can only use two fishing poles, and each pole can have no more than two hooks or lures. This is part of the two pole and line fishing only regulation. This rule applies to both Carlinville Lake I and Carlinville Lake II.
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There are no lifeguards on the beaches at Lake Carlinville. Swimmers need to be careful when swimming because no lifeguard is provided. The beach does not have monitoring by lifeguards.
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Towns near Carlinville include Girard, Benld, and Litchfield. These towns are within a 15-mile radius of Carlinville. Girard is about 12.71 miles away, Benld is approximately 13.57 miles away, and Litchfield is around 14.16 miles away.
