Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area - map and other informations

Description

Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is a beautiful outdoor destination located in southern Illinois. Established in 1967, this state park covers over 25,000 acres of land and water, making it the largest man-made lake in Illinois. The area is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

Activities

Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or take advantage of the numerous boat ramps and fishing piers available throughout the park.

In addition to fishing, Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area offers opportunities for boating and water sports. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from one of the marinas located on the lake. Kayaking, canoeing, and jet skiing are also popular activities on the water.

The park features several hiking trails that wind through scenic woodlands and along the lake's shoreline. These trails provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Deer, turkey, waterfowl, and other animals can often be spotted throughout the area.

Camping is another popular activity at Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. The park offers both primitive camping sites as well as RV hookups with electric and water connections. Campers can enjoy beautiful views of the lake while spending time in nature.

Facilities

Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area provides several amenities to enhance visitors' experiences. The park has picnic areas with tables and grills where families can enjoy meals together while taking in the scenic surroundings. There are also playgrounds for children to enjoy.

For those who prefer to stay overnight, the park offers a campground with shower facilities and restrooms. There are also several cabins available for rent, providing a comfortable and convenient option for those looking to spend more than just a day at the park.

Visiting Information

Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is open year-round, although some facilities may have seasonal closures. The park is located approximately 50 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri, making it easily accessible for both Illinois residents and out-of-state visitors.

There is an entrance fee to access the park, which helps support its maintenance and conservation efforts. Visitors can purchase daily or annual passes at the park's entrance or online in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

Can I bring my own boat to Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own boats to Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. The park has several boat ramps available for launching boats into the lake. There are also marinas where visitors can rent boats if they do not have their own.

Are there camping facilities at Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area?

Yes, Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area has a campground with both primitive sites and RV hookups. The campground offers amenities such as shower facilities and restrooms. There are also cabins available for rent for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience.

What kind of fish can be caught at Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area?

Carlyle Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and more. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore or from boats. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	4 °C 39 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	66 mm 2.6 in	8 mm 0.3 in
Feb	6 °C 43 °F	-3 °C 27 °F	62 mm 2.4 in	14 mm 0.6 in
Mar	13 °C 55 °F	3 °C 37 °F	104 mm 4.1 in	4 mm 0.2 in
Apr	18 °C 64 °F	9 °C 48 °F	136 mm 5.4 in	1 mm 0.0 in
May	24 °C 75 °F	15 °C 59 °F	133 mm 5.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	29 °C 84 °F	20 °C 68 °F	103 mm 4.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	31 °C 88 °F	22 °C 72 °F	99 mm 3.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	29 °C 84 °F	21 °C 70 °F	92 mm 3.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	27 °C 81 °F	18 °C 64 °F	79 mm 3.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	20 °C 68 °F	11 °C 52 °F	95 mm 3.7 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Nov	11 °C 52 °F	3 °C 37 °F	74 mm 2.9 in	2 mm 0.1 in
Dec	7 °C 45 °F	0 °C 32 °F	75 mm 3.0 in	6 mm 0.2 in