Dam East - McNair Campground

Situated on the southern shore of Illinois' largest man-made lake, Dam East - McNair Campground offers a prime getaway for city-dwellers seeking a peaceful retreat combined with abundant water recreation opportunities. This well-maintained campground provides a mix of wooded and open sites, many with scenic views of Carlyle Lake's expansive waters. The 26,000-acre lake is renowned for excellent fishing, boating, and sailing, with multiple boat ramps and courtesy docks available nearby.

The campground features a range of amenities including electric hookups, a swimming beach, bathhouses, laundry facilities, and playgrounds. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site nature trail and multi-use path connecting to the dam area. Located just 50 miles east of St. Louis, Dam East - McNair strikes an ideal balance between accessibility and tranquility, making it well-suited for weekend escapes or longer lakeside vacations.

Carlyle Lake is a hub for outdoor recreation, recognized as one of the nation's top inland sailing destinations and hosting several annual regattas. The surrounding area offers prime wildlife viewing, with six established Watchable Wildlife Sites featuring observation towers scattered around the lakeshore. For those interested in local culture, the charming town of Carlyle is just minutes away, providing dining and shopping options to complement days spent on the water or relaxing at camp.