
148
Total Campsites
Campground
120
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
2
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Coles Creek Campground
Overview Coles Creek Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis and a few miles from the town of Carlyle, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake. Recreation Coles Creek 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 are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam. Facilities Coles Creek 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 are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam. Natural Features 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. 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. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (618) 594-2484. Charges & Cancellations Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
- 148 total campsites listed.
- 120 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 2 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard electric (145).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Coles Creek Campground special
Coles Creek Campground sits on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake, offering 148 sites that serve as a prime gateway for outdoor recreation in the southern Illinois heartland. Just 50 miles east of St. Louis, it delivers a genuine lakeside camping experience within easy striking distance of a major metro area. Carlyle Lake spans over 26,000 acres and draws a devoted following of boaters, sailors, and anglers. The lake is one of the best in the Midwest for sailing thanks to its size and consistent winds, while fishermen pursue largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and white bass through the seasons. Coles Creek sits on a scenic stretch of shoreline with its own boat ramp, swim beach, and hiking trails that wind through the surrounding bottomland hardwoods. The campground offers a comfortable mix of electric hookup and basic sites, well-suited for both RV travelers and tent campers. Mature trees provide welcome shade during the humid Illinois summer, and the sites are spaced generously enough to maintain a relaxed feel. Peak season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, with weekends and holidays filling quickly — advance reservations are recommended. Spring and early fall bring milder temperatures, excellent fishing, and a welcome drop in crowds. For families and weekend warriors in the greater St. Louis region, Coles Creek is one of the most reliable getaways around.
Campsite Inventory
148 sites to choose from
STANDARD ELECTRIC
118
Reservable
2
Accessible
GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC
2
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
BBQ
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Double, Single
Check-in time
5:00 PM
Check-out time
4:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-In, Pull-Through
Driveway surface
Paved
Electricity Hookup
20/30/50
Fire Pit
Yes
Full Hookup
15, 50
Max guests
144, 16, 8, 80
Max vehicle length (ft)
100, 115, 39, 40
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Sewer Hookup
Yes
Shade
Full, Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
618-226-3211
Getting There
From I-57, take Old U.S. Route 50 west for 19 miles through Salem, Odin and Sandoval. Turn north on Boulder Road and continue for 4 miles, then turn onto 1700 and continue until the road connects with 2400. Continue south to the Coles Creek entrance. Address: 16225 Coles Creek RD, Carlyle, IL 62231
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Coles Creek Campground.
How do reservations work for Coles Creek Campground?
Reservation availability for Coles Creek Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Coles Creek Campground?
Coles Creek Campground currently lists STANDARD ELECTRIC (145), GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC (2), MANAGEMENT (1).
Where is Coles Creek Campground located?
Coles Creek Campground is in Illinois near CARLYLE. Coordinates: 38.6569, -89.2603.
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