Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Coles Creek

16225 Coles Creek Road, Carlyle, IL 62231

Boating

Coles Creek Day Use Area is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located a few miles from the town of Carlyle.

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.

The 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 white bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp, flathead catfish and walleye can be found in abundance.  There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play in, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

What's happening nearby...

National Crappie League Tournament

Mariners Village Resort •  May 04 @ 6:30AM

The National Crappie League’s mission is to create a crappie tournament trail that supports competitive crappie fishing for all anglers.

Read more about National Crappie League Tournament

Cruisin The Dam Car Show

Mariner's Village Resort •  Aug 09 @ 5:30PM

Get your shine and show on with your classic, unique, rat or hot rod!  Cruisin the Dam at Carlyle Lake has expanded in the last few…

Read more about Cruisin The Dam Car Show

You might also be interested...

McNair Group Camping

Carlyle

There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play in, as well as an amphitheater for educational programs.

Read more about McNair Group Camping

West Access Marina

Carlyle

We are not just a Marina, we are a way of life. Please call: For slip rates, shore storage, one night slips. Full year slips, Summer…

Read more about West Access Marina

Eldon Hazlet State Park

Carlyle

Camping, bird watching, boating, fishing, playgrounds, Sailing, volleyball, hiking, and so much more. Eldon Hazlet State Park has over 3,000 acres!

Read more about Eldon Hazlet State Park

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.