Illinois / Clinton County

Dam West Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates seasonally and closed on November 2, 2025. Reopens in spring 2026.

About

Dam West Campground is a recreation area situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake with 26,000 acres of water surface. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the campground offers 113 sites and provides the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with access to one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes. The campground features boat ramps and courtesy docks for easy water access, making it ideal for boating, sailing, and fishing enthusiasts. Carlyle Lake offers year-round fishing varieties including bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, and walleye. On-site amenities include a playground, amphitheater for educational programs, and the nearby Carlyle Lake Visitor Center with nature exhibits and a 215-gallon aquarium featuring native fish. The lake and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife and serve as a resting spot for migratory waterfowl. Six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers are open to the public around the lake. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam, providing additional recreational opportunities for campers.

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.

Nearby Campgrounds