Lake with Marshy Shoreline

Lake Carlyle Vacation Rentals

Lake Carlyle

Why Rent On Lake Carlyle

Carlyle Lake, Illinois’s largest manmade lake, beckons with its expansive waters and vibrant recreational landscape. Situated less than an hour east of St. Louis, this lake is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. The Dam West Recreation Area offers stunning views of the lake and the Carlyle Dam, perfect for picnicking, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

For those craving more immersive experiences, Eldon Hazlet State Park on the eastern shore provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and a serene swimming beach amidst lush woodlands and scenic shorelines. History buffs will find the Clinton County Historical Society Museum compelling, with exhibits that delve into the region’s Native American culture, pioneer settlements, and agricultural heritage.

The lake’s annual festivals, such as the Carlyle Lake Duck and Goose Festival, the Carlyle Lake Regatta, and the Carlyle Lake Fish Fest, add to its allure, offering guided birdwatching tours, sailboat races, and fishing tournaments. Whether you’re sailing, camping, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the lake, Carlyle Lake is an idyllic destination that promises unforgettable experiences.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Carlyle in late spring, particularly May, when wildflowers bloom and the water sparkles under warm sun. Enjoy tranquil fishing and boating before the summer crowds arrive. Relish the gentle breeze, vibrant sunsets, and the peaceful solitude of this hidden gem.
Water Quality
Lake Carlyle's water exhibits a deep blue hue with areas of emerald and aquamarine, reflecting its expansive surface and depth. The water clarity varies across the lake, with some regions being crystal-clear and others exhibiting murky conditions due to sediment and rainfall.
Surface area (mi)
65.37
Max depth (ft)
35.1
Elevation (ft)
444.88
Shoreline length (mi)
85

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Carlyle has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, the beaches at Carlyle Lake are open for swimming. The beaches, including Keyesport, Dam West, McNair, and Coles Creek, are available for public use after being inspected for safety and marked with designated swimming areas.

  • Lake Carlyle is a popular destination because of its extensive outdoor activities. It offers boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, with amenities like marinas, campgrounds, and a large state park, Eldon Hazlet State Park, which provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. The lake is also known for its scenic beauty and birdwatching opportunities.

  • For Lake Carlyle, Illinois, the daily catch limits and minimum length requirements are as follows: Largemouth or Smallmouth Bass have a 14-inch minimum length limit with a 6 fish per day limit. White, Black, or hybrid Crappie have a 10-inch minimum length limit with a 15 fish per day limit. White Bass, Striped Bass, and their hybrids have no creel limit if under 17 inches, but a 3 fish per day combined limit if 17 inches or longer. Sauger and Walleye have a 14-inch minimum length limit with a 6 fish per day limit.

  • The best beach at Carlyle Lake for families is either Keyesport or Dam West. Both beaches have restrooms, playgrounds, and roped-off swimming areas. Dam West also has showers, but it can be crowded on summer weekends, while Keyesport tends to be quieter.

  • The nearest towns to Lake Carlyle in Illinois are Aviston, Bartelso, and Beckemeyer. These towns are all located in Clinton County and are within a short driving distance from the lake. Other nearby towns include Breese and Germantown.