Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

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109 sites · RV, Tent

If you're hoping to do it all, Dam West Recreation Area offers the most amenities of all the campgrounds on Carlyle Lake, hands down.

Stay in one of the lodges or camp in your tent or RV to enjoy it, either way you'll have to make time to for a splash at the beaches or in the pool. Fishing piers and cleaning stations make this an angler's paradise, and don't forget to stretch out those calf muscles by bike or foot on one of the many gorgeous, winding trails. Pure perfection.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

109 sitesRV, Tent

Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment Dam West Recreation Area and Campground becomes available.

Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment Dam West Recreation Area and Campground becomes available.

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Carlyle Lake

The Quiet Countryside

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Vandalia, IL

Easy access for campers located by a pond. Great for fishing and relaxing! 30 AMP electric hookup, can accommodate water fill up and sewer dump. There is a covered pavilion with picnic table and chairs. There is a grill and a fire pit. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway you will love it here! Located close to the interstate. Plenty of restaurants near by and Vandalia lake is 8 minutes from campsite.

Fresh Retro Glamping

1 site · Lodging1 acre · St. Louis, MO

Stay in the heart is St. Louis on The Hill near all of the big attractions! You will have your own private yard space and your 200 sq. ft. cabin has heating and air conditioning . The list of attractions within 1.5 miles of your Fresh Retro Glamping cabin includes: Berra Park, Forest Park, St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, The Muny, The Science Center, Missouri Botanical Gardens, The History Museum and Tower Grove Park. Walk the safe vibrant neighborhood to enjoy the parks with playgrounds, many restaurants, delis, Italian groceries, piazza, and coffee shops.

Timberline Ridge

2 sites · Lodging, RVs40 acres · Carlinville, IL

Escape to our charming tiny log cabin nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a serene retreat, our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Unwind on the spacious deck while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding trees. With nearby hiking trails, and quaint local shops, there's plenty to explore during your stay. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in our tranquil hideaway.

Grove On Top Possum Hill

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Worden, IL

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

Happy Trails Farm Resort

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Granite City, IL

Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life. We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale). There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you. We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more. We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645 Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282. We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations. Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out; horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others. We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community. We look forward to seeing you on the farm! Check-in is between 2pm-9pm. No late night check-ins. Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation. Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection. We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals. Come pitch a tent under the farm stars. Happy Trails :)

Urban Surprise

1 site · RV1 acre · St. Louis, MO

Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area with 30 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium, Arch, Forrest Park, St Louis City SC and Convention Center. Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'. Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires and please clean up after your pets. The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history. There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8

Sugarloaf Creek

1 site · RV7 acres · Dupo, IL

A wooded, country oasis located 20 minutes away from downtown St. Louis. Plenty of city adventures to be had or relax on the peaceful deck overlooking a small creek. Some nearby local hiking spots near the Mississippi River flood plains. Fire pit available for use. Water and 30 AMP electric hookup.

Emerald Acres Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Worden, IL

Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.

Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park

41 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · New Athens, IL

Welcome to the Village of New Athens RV Park! We sincerely appreciate your choice to stay with us. As you settle in, we're thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our campgrounds and the warmth of our community. Our park offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. You'll find convenient water hookups and sewer connections, along with waterfront views that promise a serene and picturesque experience. Embrace the outdoors at our picnic area and explore the surrounding landscapes, as we happily welcome pets, making your stay pet-friendly. For the adventurous souls, we have hike and bike campsites, providing opportunities for thrilling exploration on our gravel roads. Should you require any essentials during your stay, rest assured, we have gasoline available nearby. And as the evening settles in, gather around the fire pit, where cherished memories are created, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers. While you're here, don't miss out on the various activities we offer. Cast a line and indulge in the art of fishing, or take to the waters for a boating adventure that promises to be both invigorating and unforgettable. Once again, thank you for being our guest. We look forward to making your time with us truly memorable as you embrace the wonders of our Village of New Athens RV Park. Happy exploring!

Tranquillity

3 sites · Tents6 acres · Belleville, IL

Many years ago, this area was a country get away for St. Louis city folks. Now, the large farms are smaller farm estate residences for people like me who enjoy large trees, open land, wildlife, and some privacy.

Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

1 site · Tent17 acres · Millstadt, IL

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request.

Lavender Cottage

1 site · Lodging7 acres · St. Louis, MO

Rustic Roots Sanctuary is an organic farm in Spanish Lake. We are close to Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, Fort Bellefontaine and Chain of Rocks Bridge. This area was once all farm land and our site captures that essence perfectly. Everyone who visits describes an immediate feeling of peace and tranquility. Enjoy our perfect country escape 10 minutes from the city, 15 mins from the airport and 20 mins from the Arch! Spanish Lake has historic sites to explore. This is a working farm and throughout the week there will be people working here in the fields. Friendly farm animals also live and work on the farm. Specifically a pony, goats, chickens, a bunny, 2 barn cats and 3 dogs. We have an 3 acres growing organic produce and an Apiary that produces the Best Honey in St. Louis! Get a taste of whatever is available from our farm store in the canning kitchen. Please visit our website to get a better feel for who we are and what we do for our community. We also have solstice celebrations and a weekly farmers market on Wed evenings. If you visit the calendar page on our website you can see when events are scheduled and choose if you want to be part of the magic or would rather come at a more quiet time. If there are ever any issues please reach out! ***Please note that we do not have hot running water in the bath house until temp consistently stay above freezing. We do have farm hydrants on the land where you can get water. Please be prepared if you choose to book before mid-April.

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100%

1 ratings · 1 review

Angie A.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2017

Nice place to camp. Bathrooms and showers. Nice little beach area

LocationDam West Recreation Area and Campground, Carlyle Lake, Illinois, United States

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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Carlyle Lake
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Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

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