Nature park camping in Carbondale, Illinois

Poplar Camp Beach at Cedar Lake is a picturesque park located on Poplar Camp Road in Carbondale, Illinois, United States. This beautiful beach offers visitors a relaxing escape with sandy shores and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. With plenty of picnic areas, walking trails, and water activities, Poplar Camp Beach is the ideal spot for a fun-filled day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or enjoy some outdoor adventure, this charming park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Dam West Recreation Campground is a serene retreat located at 15334 Lake Road in Carlyle, Illinois, United States. Situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, this campground offers a perfect escape for both city-dwellers and families. Just 50 miles east of St. Louis, Dam West Campground provides a peaceful small town atmosphere combined with the beauty of Illinois' largest man-made lake. With 109 campsites available, including both reservable and non-reservable options, visitors can enjoy modern amenities and easy access to a marina and boat storage facility. The adjacent Dam West Spillway and Dam West Day Use Area offer additional recreational opportunities, while the nearby Dam East facilities and McNair Group Area can be reached by walking or biking across the dam.

Crab Orchard Campground, located in Carbondale, Illinois, offers a serene and picturesque setting for camping and lodging. Situated within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, guests can enjoy stunning views of the lake, sunrises, sunsets, and a variety of wildlife including waterfowl and shorebirds. With 74 campsites available, guests can choose from sites with water and electric hookups or primitive sites. The campground also offers amenities such as hot showers, flush toilets, and a dump station for convenience. Additionally, visitors can partake in a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife observation, and more. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Crab Orchard Campground provides a perfect escape into nature. Contact the campground at 618-985-4983 for inquiries or reservations.