Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area Campgrounds
category : Camping
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area is probably best known for its camping facilities. The Illini Campground has 328 Class A campsites with 30 and 50 amp electrical hook-ups, 36 Class C campsites for walk-in tent camping and two rustic rent-a-cabins. Seven Class A campsites are accessible to individuals in wheelchairs. The campground occupies almost 1 1/2 miles of the Carlyle Lake shoreline, and most of the campsites are within easy reach of the water. Many campers keep their boats in the coves located along the campground.
Three shower buildings are located in the campground, plus numerous privy toilets. Recreational amenities include several sets of playground equipment, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, an amphitheater, and hiking trails. Plenty of parking is available for vehicles and boat trailers. To register for a campsite see one of the campground hosts or a site security officer.
Reservations can be made for Class A sites 1 -65 (reservation sites map). Reservations are accepted by mail only in January and starting in February, by mail or in-person for the remainder of the year. A maximum of six reservations per person, per envelope are accepted. A non-refundable fee of $5 plus the first night's camping fee must be included with the reservation.
The Eldon Hazlet Campground Store, located at the entrance to the Illini Campground, is a 2,000 square foot store with contains groceries, camping and fishing supplies, clothes, live bait, ice and fire wood. A public laundry room and outdoor patio are also available.
South Shore State Park is a 3-mile long park located on Carlyle Lake's southeast side, approximately 3 miles east for the City of Carlyle on Route 50. The park provides recreational opportunities, including a small boat access, a Class C campground with vehicular access, five day-use areas for picnicking, a 3/4 mile hiking trail, as well as outstanding bank fishing opportunities. Observing wildlife, especially white-tailed deer, is another popular activity.
Swimming Pool
A public swimming pool is located behind the campground store. The pool is open form Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. With a zero entry to 4 1/2 foot depth and staffed by a lifeguard, the pool is ideal for families with small children.
Address: 3 m N of Carlyle and 2 m E of Illinois Route 127
Phone: 618-594-3015
Our Email: dnr.eldonhazlet@illinois.gov
Our Website:dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/PARKS/R4/ELDON.HTM
Come visit us in Carlyle Lake, Illinois