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LOTUS GROUP AREA

Carlyle, Illinois · US Army Corps of Engineers

RVTentLake/water
LOTUS GROUP AREA — official Recreation.gov photo

Photo: Recreation.gov

About

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.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. 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. Lotus Group Area offers a secluded group campground in Coles Creek Recreation Area. The facility consists of 10 full-service campsites, a playground, and a comfort station. 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.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.

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.

Location

Map tiles © OpenStreetMap.

Details

State
Illinois
City / area
Carlyle
Agency
US Army Corps of Engineers
Parent area
Carlyle Lake
Campsites
1
Reservable
Yes
Typical price
$200 / night
Rating
4.38 / 5 (8 reviews on Recreation.gov)
Equipment
Tent, RV, Trailer, Caravan/Camper Van, Fifth Wheel, Pop up, Boat, Hammock

Reserve on Recreation.gov

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