Dam West Campground

About

Dam West Campground is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation area on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake at 26,000 acres. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the campground provides 109 reservable sites ranging from standard electric to full hookup with water and sewer. All sites have paved driveways and can accommodate RVs up to 98 feet on some sites. The campground features modern air-conditioned bathhouses with showers and laundry facilities. Water recreation is the main attraction, with boat ramps, courtesy docks, and marina access on-site. The lake supports year-round fishing for bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, and walleye. The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center is adjacent and features nature exhibits including a 215-gallon native fish aquarium. Families will find an on-site playground, amphitheater for educational programs, and a multi-use biking and walking trail across the dam. The area hosts several annual sailing races and regattas, and six Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers are located around the lake for observing migratory waterfowl.

Directions

From I-70, take State Route 127 south to Carlyle and turn east on William Road. Continue for 1/2-mile and turn north on Lake Road to reach the campground.