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Eldon Hazlet SRA
Overview
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area spans over 3,000 acres along the western shores of Carlyle Lake in Illinois. As one of the largest and most visited state-managed sites in the region, it provides a comprehensive outdoor recreation experience for visitors and has been a favorite for generations. The park is specifically celebrated for its expansive campground layout, offering a mix of shaded retreats and sunny lakeside spots that cater perfectly to the modern RVer's needs for space and natural beauty.
Location & Surroundings
Located just a short drive from the city of Carlyle, IL, in Clinton County, the park sits on the edge of the 26,000-acre Carlyle Lake, which is the largest man-made reservoir in the state. The geography features a beautiful mix of lush hardwood forests and open prairie lands, creating a diverse habitat for local wildlife and migratory waterfowl. Its proximity to St. Louis makes it a convenient getaway for city dwellers seeking a scenic change of pace near the water's edge.
Amenities & Park Features
The Illini Campground serves as the heart of the park’s overnight facilities, offering over 300 campsites equipped with electrical hookups, including 30-amp and 50-amp service. Several sites also feature full hookup capabilities, including water and sewer, which is a significant convenience within a state park system. Additional facilities include a seasonal swimming pool, multiple accessible shower buildings, and a fully stocked camp store providing ice, firewood, and essential supplies for a comfortable stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over nine miles of interpretive trails, such as the popular Cherokee Trail, which offers glimpses of the lake’s shoreline and excellent opportunities for bird watching. Carlyle Lake is globally recognized as a premier sailing destination due to its consistent winds and wide-open waters. Anglers frequently visit the area for its abundant populations of crappie and bass, while the nearby Carlyle Lake Dam offers additional areas for sightseeing and photography.
Who This Park Is Best For
This recreation area is ideally suited for active families and boating enthusiasts who thrive on water-based activities and a social camping environment. Because of the vast number of sites and inclusive facilities, it is also a top choice for large RV rallies and social clubs looking for a central meeting point. If you are a traveler who prefers a park with a resort-like variety of activities while remaining immersed in a natural state park setting, this is an excellent choice for your itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Nicholas Crear
Great place to camp, and even better place to spend your special holiday weekend events. The entire month of October is filled with Halloween decotarated sites. Designated days for treating and just a great time with many families and friends.
Randy E. Troxtell
Just 1hr. East of St. Louis is Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, located about 50 miles east of St. Louis, and was created by the damming of the Kaskaskia River. The lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it offers various recreational activities including swimming at its beaches, camping at state parks like Eldon Hazlet State Park, boating, mini fish, species, including crappie and bluegill, and the hiking trails are great!!Wildlife conservation is also a key focus, with habitats established for species like the endangered Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. The deer here are lousy, so always be aware especially during dawn and sunset. The campsites are very well kept so please do the same. The spots are evenly spaced with plenty of room for large or small mobile trailers. There are reserve spots as well as first come first serve spots. Those areas are very well marked, so please pay attention when reserving your piece of paradise. There is a small store that will have all your camping needs. The hours very, so please pay attention to that. Next to the little store is a swimming pool, that fee is separate from camping fees. Firewood is $20 for a good size bucket (they provide)
Brigit J
We love it here! There is a mix of reservable and first come sites available. Amazing lake views. There is a store with essentials. They also have a pool (small fee) that is well maintained, large and there are plenty of lounge chairs. It’s zero entry, which I love. There are plenty of park hosts and we’ve never had an issue with other guests. The bathroom/showers are well maintained and clean.
Kerrie Dewey
Just want to mention first that there is no water hook up here. Besides that down fall this is a good camp ground for families. There are multiple parks, a pool, a small store, and trails for walking or hiking. Showers and restrooms are nice and clean, the water in the showers is nice and hot. Volleyball and basketball courts add to the list of family activities. Please drive slow and be alert, children and their toys or bikes are bond to be anywhere! For $20 a night you really can't ask for more and the lake is beautiful with multiple beaches and boat ramps.
thomas fults
Great place to stay for snow geese hunting! We loved it!