Lotus Group Area
The Lotus Group Area is on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Lotus Group Area offers a secluded group campground in Coles Creek Recreation Area. The facility consists of five enclosed mini shelters with electricity, five campsites with electricity and one large enclosed shelter with tables, water and electricity. A playground, a restroom with vault toilets and a large fire ring are also provided. The site can hold a single group of up to 80 people at a time. The Coles Creek Beach and Day Use Area are a short walk away.
Notifications and Alerts
Due to construction that will be taking place at Lotus Group Area during the off season, reservations will not be accepted until approximately April 1, 2025.
The cabins and kitchen building will be removed from the area due to their age, and occupancy usage. Additional campsites will be put in the area in place of the cabins.
Any questions can be answered by calling the Carlyle Lake Project Office at 618-594-2484.
Need to Know
This facility is only available by reservation.
Firewood from areas outside of this facility is not permitted due to invasive insects; click here for more info.
- 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.
Natural Features
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.
Nearby Attractions
Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Recreation
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. The vast lake allows for plenty of water sports with boat ramps, courtesy docks and a swimming beach being located nearby. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is an on-site playground and plenty of open space for children to play. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Contact Information
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801 LAKE ROAD CARLYLE IL 62231-1267
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 618-226-3211
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From I-57, take Old U.S. Highway 50 west for 19 miles, through Salem, Odin and Sandoval. Turn north on Boulder Road/2400E. After 4 miles turn east on 1700N and continue until the road connects with 2400E. Continue south and turn right just before reaching the Coles Creek entrance road. Proceed north to Lotus Group Area.
