Dam East Rec. Area (Day Use) Near Carlyle, IL

About Dam East Rec. Area (Day Use)

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

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season

Upcoming seasons

Past seasons

Closed periods

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Currently closed

Campground Amenities

Water Access

Lake Access

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Location & Directions for Dam East Rec. Area (Day Use)

801 Lake Road, Carlyle, IL 62231-9703 United States

Elevation: 149 ft

Map of Dam East Rec. Area (Day Use) location at Carlyle, IL, United States

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Getting There

From I-57, take Old U.S. Route 50 west for 37 mi to the Dam East entrance road and turn north. Turn east at the next intersection and continue for 1.2 mi to Dam East Day Use Area.

Nearest town

Carlyle, IL - 3.5 mi

About 5 min to downtown

Policies & Rules

General

Firewood brought into this facility must be purchased, or collected locally due to invasive insects.
Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Click here for a virtual tour of Carlyle Lake

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Campground / RV park

Dam East - Mcnair Campground

Carlyle, IL

Dam East-McNair Campground is located on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, ideal for city-dwellers and families seeking a peaceful getaway. It is situated 50 mi east of St. Louis, offering a small-town atmosphere alongside Illinois' largest man-...

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Campground / RV park

Dam East Spillway (Day Use)

Carlyle, IL

The Dam East Spillway Day Use Area is located on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, 50 mi east of St. Louis. It serves as a tranquil escape for city-dwellers and families, combining a small-town atmosphere with the beauty of Illinois' largest man...

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Closed for Season

Campground / RV park

Dam West Spillway

Carlyle, IL

Dam West Spillway is located on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake, 50 mi east of St. Louis. It serves as a peaceful retreat for city-dwellers and families. The area combines the charm of a small town with scenic l...