Dam West Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates seasonally and closed on November 2, 2025. Reopens in spring 2026.
Cold Weather Advisory issued January 18 at 1:36PM CST until January 19 at 10:00AM CST by NWS St Louis MO
* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 11 below expected. * WHERE...Bond IL, Clinton IL, Fayette IL, Marion IL, and Madison IL Counties. * WHEN...From 3 AM to 10 AM CST Monday. * IMPACTS...The cold wind chills as low as 10 below zero could result in hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken.
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
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | Yes |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 138ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 138ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (618) 594-4410 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!