Dam West Campground

4.7·368 reviews
·Carlyle Lake

Overview

Dam West Campground is a recreation area situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.

Great Facilities and Amenities

  • Bbq

    (All campsites have Bbq)

  • Campfire Allowed

    (All campsites have Campfire Allowed)

  • Checkin Time

    (All campsites have Checkin Time)

  • Checkout Time

    (All campsites have Checkout Time)

  • Driveway Entry

    (All campsites have Driveway Entry)

  • Firepit

    (All campsites have Firepit)

  • Max Num Of People

    (Up to 16)

  • Max Num Of Vehicles

    (Up to 3)

  • Pets Allowed

    (All campsites have Pets Allowed)

  • Picnic Table

    (All campsites have Picnic Table)

  • Shade

    (There are variety of Shade. Such as full and true.)

  • Water Hookup

    (24 of 109 campsites have Water Hookup)

Natural Features

Dam West Campground campsite - Credits: USACE
Dam West Campground entrance - Credits: USACE
Dam West Campground from the water - Credits: USACE
Dam West Campground Map - Credits: USACE
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas.Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.

Recreation

Dam West Campground waterfront campsite - Credits: USACE

Dam West Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.

Permitted Equipment

  • rv-Up to 138ft

  • tent-Up to 138ft

  • trailer-Up to 138ft

Nearby Attractions

The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.

Additional Information

Campsites