Boulder Day Use
Boulder Day Use Area is situated 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.
Boulder Day Use Area provides modern amenities like flush toilets and drinking water, as well as one reservable group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people. Boaters have the convenience of a marina, boat ramp and fish cleaning station. It is adjacent to the Boulder Recreation Area, which offers reservable campsites.
Need to Know
Day-use area only.
Day-use hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Firewood brought into this facility must be purchased, or collected locally due to invasive insects.
- 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 races and regattas. The 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, and there are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
Nearby Attractions
The 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
Boulder Day Use Area provides fun both on the water and on shore. A boat ramp and courtesy dock are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. 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 wide open space for children to play. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the main dam.
Contact Information
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801 LAKE ROAD CARLYLE IL 62231
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 618-226-3586
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
(Address: 25501 Boulder Access RD, Shattuc, IL 62231). From I-57, take Old U.S. Highway 50 west. Continue for 19 miles through Salem, Odin and Sandoval. Turn north on Boulder Road and follow 7 miles to the day use and recreation area.
