Keyesport Rec. Area

1 review

Western shore of Carlyle Lake, Keyesport, IL

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Check Site

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Keyesport Recreation Area site

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Check Site

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Keyesport Recreation Area site

Get Directions

Keyesport Rec. Area

No fees available

Campsite Fees

One reservable group picnic shelter is available (capacity up to 75 people). No specific fees or reservation platforms are listed in the provided...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Provider

(618) 594-2484

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Best Time to Camp at Keyesport Rec. Area

The beauty of Carlyle Lake reveals itself in every season. Anglers cast their lines year-round, finding productive fishing whether ice crystals form along the shore or summer sun warms the water. Throughout the changing seasons, waves of migratory waterfowl sweep across the sky, transforming the lake into a living canvas as geese, ducks, and shorebirds pause during their ancient journeys. Bird enthusiasts discover new species with each visit, as the lake's diverse habitats support wildlife from spring's first warblers to winter's majestic bald eagles.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Year-round

About Keyesport Rec. Area

Discover your lakeside escape at Keyesport Recreation Area, where the western shores of sprawling Carlyle Lake meet endless possibilities for adventure. Just 50 miles east of St. Louis, this family-friendly haven combines a full-service marina, swimming beach, and modern amenities with the kind of waterfront access that turns ordinary weekends into lasting memories.

The provided information does not specify types of overnight camping (tent, RV, primitive or cabins). The site does offer day-use group facilities in the form of a reservable group picnic shelter.

Historical SignificanceSince Carlyle Lake's creation in 1967, these waters have earned a reputation that extends far beyond Illinois. The lake has become a premier destination for competitive sailing, hosting annual races and regattas that draw enthusiasts from across the region. What began as an ambitious engineering project has transformed into a celebrated hub for inland sailing and recreational events, building a legacy that continues to grow with each passing season.

Weather and SeasonsThe beauty of Carlyle Lake reveals itself in every season. Anglers cast their lines year-round, finding productive fishing whether ice crystals form along the shore or summer sun warms the water. Throughout the changing seasons, waves of migratory waterfowl sweep across the sky, transforming the lake into a living canvas as geese, ducks, and shorebirds pause during their ancient journeys. Bird enthusiasts discover new species with each visit, as the lake's diverse habitats support wildlife from spring's first warblers to winter's majestic bald eagles.

Natural Features and SceneryStretching across 26,000 acres of shimmering water, Carlyle Lake ranks among the nation's top ten inland sailing destinations, where steady winds and open horizons create ideal conditions for both novice and experienced sailors. The lake's diverse ecosystem serves as a vital stopover for migratory waterfowl traveling ancient flyways, while its shores shelter an impressive array of wildlife year-round. Six strategically positioned Watchable Wildlife Sites, complete with viewing towers, offer front-row seats to nature's seasonal spectacles—from spring migrations to winter gatherings of waterfowl against the backdrop of the lake's ever-changing moods.

Geological RegionCarlyle Lake (Illinois' largest man-made lake)

Campsite details

Sites SizeReservable group picnic shelter

Total Campsitesnull campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Groups

One reservable group picnic shelter is available and can accommodate up to 75 people (day-use shelter).

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive are not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Open and Closed SeasonYear-round

Cancellation PolicyOne reservable group picnic shelter (can accommodate up to 75 people). For facility-specific information call (618) 594-2484.

Activities you can enjoy

Recreation centers on Carlyle Lake with on-water and on-shore opportunities: boating and water sports, fishing, a swimming beach, playground, biking/walking trail near the dam, and established wildlife viewing sites with towers around the lake.

Hiking

Fishing

Fishing is popular year-round; listed species include bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. A fish cleaning station is provided on-site.

Swimming

The area includes a swimming beach for family use.

Biking

A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.

Boating

Boaters have access to a marina, boat ramps and courtesy docks; the lake supports a variety of water sports and sailing.

Wildlife viewing

Carlyle Lake is a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds and has six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.

Beach activities

A designated swimming beach is available for visitors.

Cultural and Educational Programs

The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center (at the Dam West Recreation Area) offers information and nature exhibits, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.

Water Sports

Sailing and other water sports; the lake is noted for sailing and hosts annual races and regattas.

Campground rules

Pets are not allowed

Hazards

Weather at Keyesport Rec. Area

°F

Dec 11

Thursday

Overcast

Precipitation: 0%

Humidity: 70%

Wind: 9.1 mph

Overcast

Weather History

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Good to know

Proximity to water featuresLocated on the western shore of Carlyle Lake; facilities include a marina, boat ramp, fish cleaning station, swimming beach and playground.

Campground Map

Western shore of Carlyle Lake, Keyesport, IL

Driving directionsFrom 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.

Accessible from I-70 via State Route 127 (take SR 127 south for 10 miles, then east on Clinton Road for 4 miles to Keyesport).

Nearby places

St. Louis — 50 miles