Keyesport Rec. Area

About

Keyesport Recreation Area is situated on the western shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families seeking a day on the water. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis in Clinton County, Illinois, the area provides access to the state's largest man-made lake, created in 1967 and spanning 26,000 acres. The recreation area features a marina, boat ramp, and fish cleaning station for boaters, along with a swimming beach and playground for families. One reservable group picnic shelter can accommodate up to 75 people with electric service. The vast lake offers year-round fishing for bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, and walleye. Carlyle Lake is also recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes. This is a day-use facility only with operating hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. There is no overnight camping at Keyesport Recreation Area. Nearby campgrounds at Carlyle Lake include Boulder Campground, Coles Creek Recreation Area, and Dam West Campground for those seeking overnight accommodations.

Directions

From I-70, take State Route 127 south for 10 miles. Turn east on Clinton Road, continue east for four miles to the town of Keyesport, then follow signs to the recreation area.