Lotus Group Area
Closed for the season. Opens May 2, 2026, operates through September 28, 2026. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
Flood Watch issued May 19 at 5:12AM CDT until May 19 at 1:00PM CDT by NWS St Louis MO
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of Illinois, including the following areas, Bond IL, Calhoun IL, Clinton IL, Fayette IL, Jersey IL, Marion IL and Washington IL and Missouri, including the following areas, Audrain MO, Boone MO, Callaway MO, Cole MO, Crawford MO, Franklin MO, Gasconade MO, Moniteau MO, Monroe MO, Montgomery MO, Osage MO, Pike MO, Ralls MO, Warren MO and Washington MO. * WHEN...Until 1 PM CDT this afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Potential rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches, with localized higher amounts. These amounts will occur across areas that experienced heavy rainfall yesterday.
Flood Warning issued May 18 at 9:27PM CDT by NWS St Louis MO
...The Flood Warning is extended for the following rivers in Illinois... Kaskaskia River at Carlyle. River forecasts are based on observed precipitation and forecast precipitation for the next 24 hours. * WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE...Kaskaskia River at Carlyle. * WHEN...Until further notice. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 9:00 PM CDT Monday the stage was 18.6 feet. - Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending at 9:00 PM CDT Monday was 18.6 feet. - Forecast...The river is expected to fall to 16.8 feet Monday, May 25. - Flood stage is 16.5 feet.
About
Lotus Group Area is a group camping facility located on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake at 26,000 acres. Situated 50 miles east of St. Louis in Clinton County, the campground offers a peaceful retreat combined with access to one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes. The campground provides both water-based and land-based recreation. Carlyle Lake offers year-round fishing for bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, and walleye. Nearby boat ramps, courtesy docks, and a swimming beach facilitate various water sports. The area features an on-site playground and ample open space for group activities. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam. Created in 1967, Carlyle Lake serves as a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds, with six established Watchable Wildlife Sites featuring viewing towers around the lake. The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center in the Dam West Recreation Area offers nature exhibits, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Directions
From I-57, take Old U.S. Highway 50 west for 19 miles through Salem, Odin, and Sandoval. Turn north on Boulder Road/2400E. After 4 miles turn east on 1700N and continue until the road connects with 2400E. Continue south and turn right just before reaching the Coles Creek entrance road. Proceed north to Lotus Group Area.
Amenities
| Water | — |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $200 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (618) 226-3211 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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