Dam East - Mcnair Campground
4.50169 reviews801 Lake Road, Carlyle, IL, 62231, USA
Dam East - Mcnair Campground
$18.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and type of site. Peak season nightly rates for standard electric sites are $20, while non-peak season rates are $18. Group Standard Area Electric sites are $125 year-round.
About this campground
Nestled along the sun-dappled southern shores of Carlyle Lake, Dam East-McNair Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 47 thoughtfully arranged campsites across three distinct loops. The North and South loops (sites 1-32) offer a more intimate camping experience, while the Spillway loop (sites 33-47) provides its own unique charm. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here—from convenient laundry facilities and clean bathhouses to a refreshing swimming beach where families gather on warm afternoons. Children's laughter often drifts from the nearby playgrounds, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes this campground feel like a home away from home.
Dam East-McNair Campground supports various camping styles, including tent and RV camping, with options for group camping at a reservable picnic shelter. No cabin or glamping accommodations are available.
Historical SignificanceSince its creation in 1967, Carlyle Lake has evolved into Illinois' premier destination for inland sailing, earning a reputation that draws competitive sailors from across the nation. The annual regattas transform the lake into a colorful spectacle of billowing sails and racing hulls, creating an atmosphere of excitement and tradition. Beyond the sailing culture, the area has become a vital sanctuary for migratory birds, with generations of waterfowl returning each season to this protected haven. This rich tapestry of human recreation and natural habitat creates a unique cultural landscape where outdoor traditions are passed down through families year after year.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Midwestern seasons at Dam East-McNair, where summer days unfold in perfect 80°F comfort—ideal for swimming, hiking, and lakeside relaxation. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a painter's palette of warm hues, while winter brings crisp 40°F days perfect for bundled-up nature walks. Spring awakens the campground with refreshing rains and dramatic storm systems that roll across the lake, creating spectacular cloud formations that photographers cherish. Early summer thunderstorms bring nature's own light show, followed by crystal-clear skies that make for unforgettable stargazing nights.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await future documentation, the campground's gentle terrain provides comfortable camping conditions and easy access to all facilities and the shoreline.
Natural Features and SceneryThe shimmering expanse of Carlyle Lake serves as your backyard at Dam East-McNair, where morning mists rise from the water to reveal a landscape teeming with life. Scenic trails wind through diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of wildflowers in spring, dense green canopies in summer, and frost-kissed grasses in fall. The established Wildlife Watch Sites have become legendary among nature enthusiasts, particularly for the majestic bald eagles that soar overhead and perch in lakeside trees. Bird watchers arrive with binoculars at dawn, hoping to spot everything from graceful herons to colorful warblers, while the surrounding woodlands shelter deer, foxes, and countless other creatures that make this ecosystem their home.
Geological RegionDam East-McNair sits proudly on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake and a testament to human engineering working in harmony with nature. This 26,000-acre aquatic playground has transformed the regional landscape into a paradise for water enthusiasts and wildlife alike. The lake's creation brought together diverse habitats that now support thriving populations of bass, crappie, and catfish, while its expansive waters have earned recognition as one of the Midwest's finest sailing venues. During migration seasons, the lake becomes a crucial stopover for thousands of waterfowl, creating spectacular displays that draw visitors from hundreds of miles away.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include flush toilets, showers, parking, walkways, playgrounds, and trailheads. Some users highlighted the accessibility features positively: 'Restrooms were clean and air-conditioned,' and 'Accessible parking and walkways make it easy for all visitors.'
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with features such as asphalt pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some sites are noted as spacious: 'Nice large sites well separated,' while others are criticized for narrow roads affecting RV navigation.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; many sites are described as spacious and quiet, while others are close to neighboring sites, reducing privacy. User quotes include, 'Very private, no one bothers you,' and 'Site #28 is very close, with its fire ring only about ten feet from the back of our camper.'
Total Campsites47 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSpillway Loop is ideal for privacy and wildlife viewing. North Loop offers family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and spacious sites.
Best CampsitesSite 23 in North Loop is noted for privacy, proximity to the lake, and quiet surroundings. Sites in Spillway Loop (e.g., 35, 37) are popular for scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available starting at 5 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 4 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are designed for single capacity, but group sites accommodate up to 80 people.
Groups
One reservable group picnic shelter accommodating up to 80 people is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops: North and South loops (sites 1-32) near Carlyle Lake; Spillway loop (sites 33-47) below the main dam.
Open and Closed SeasonOpened April 4 to December 31 each year. Reservable from June 20 onward.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via mobile app, or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe facility is 100% reservable, but group areas may be available first-come, first-served if not reserved.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for cancellations made before arrival. Late cancellations incur an additional fee of the first night's site charge.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Dam East-McNair Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming at a designated beach, fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Carlyle Lake supports boating and water sports. Specific reviews highlight the quality of amenities such as hiking trails, biking paths, and the swimming beach.
Hiking
A multi-use trail is available for hiking and biking. User feedback highlights its accessibility and scenery: 'Great hiking trail in the campground,' and 'Beautiful walking and biking trails along the river and across the dam.'Fishing
Fishing is popular, with the lake offering a variety of fish species year-round, including bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and more. However, some reviews noted overcrowding near fishing areas: 'The people who turned up to fish the spillway kinda ruined the experience.'Swimming
The campground features a sandy swimming beach with a gentle slope, making it suitable for children: 'The beach area slopes very gently out into the water so the kids could wade out quite a ways.'Biking
Biking paths are accessible and connect to nearby attractions, including Carlyle Lake and the dam: 'Rode our bikes into Carlyle for donuts in the morning,' and 'Wonderful hiking trails; beautiful location.'Boating
Nearby Carlyle Lake offers boating opportunities with boat ramps and courtesy docks available. The lake is recognized as one of the nation's top inland sailing lakes.Wildlife viewing
Carlyle Lake features six established Watchable Wildlife Sites. Wildlife sightings include migratory waterfowl and bald eagles: 'A pair of bald eagles flew over us on several occasions,' and 'Lots of wildlife, including bald eagles.'Beach activities
The swimming beach supports beach-related activities such as sunbathing and picnicking. Users appreciated the atmosphere and amenities, saying, 'Shade down at the beach and picnic tables with grills.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited, but user reviews indicate camping and wildlife viewing are popular during colder months: 'Very quiet and serene - of course we camped over New Year's weekend.'Water Sports
Carlyle Lake supports water sports such as sailing and kayaking, with annual races and regattas held on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but require locally purchased or collected firewood.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 9 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons have been reported as aggressive, especially near food storage areas. Biting flies can be problematic seasonally.
Active alertsThere are no current alerts, though reviews mention ongoing water line installations causing disruptions.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Carlyle Medical Center (approx. 3 miles), Carlyle Police Department (approx. 3 miles), Dam East Ranger Station (approx. 1 mile)
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 4 to November 1 is the peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available, but reviews indicate instances of dog waste and improper trash handling: 'The campsite had at least six piles of dog crap in the grass.' Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Carlyle Lake and the spillway, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include cleanliness issues in bathrooms, rude hosts, and disruptive fishing activities near Spillway Loop sites.
HostCampground hosts have mixed reviews. Some visitors praise their friendliness and attentiveness, while others report rudeness and lack of support.
Campground Map
801 Lake Road, Carlyle, IL, 62231, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-57, take Old U.S. Highway 50 west for 22 miles to the Dam East Entrance road. Turn north and continue through the four-way intersection to the McNair Group Area.
The roads leading to the campground are accessible via paved highways and local roads. There are no reports of seasonal closures or difficult terrain.Nearby places
St. Louis (50 miles, approx. 1 hour), Centralia (25 miles, approx. 35 minutes), Vandalia (45 miles, approx. 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
IGA Grocery Store (approx. 2 miles), Walmart Supercenter (approx. 3 miles), Carlyle Gas Station (approx. 2 miles)
Camper Reviews
4.5
169 reviews
Dam East - Mcnair Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed, with positive comments on cleanliness, spacious campsites, and amenities like hiking trails and swimming areas. Negative experiences include issues with cleanliness, rude hosts, and crowded fishing areas. Overall, the campground is highly rated at 4.35 stars.
Review Summaries
Based on 169 reviews
What Campers Love
Users often praise the quiet and clean environment, accessibility, and well-kept facilities. Quotes include, 'Very clean well taken care of,' and 'The campground was spacious and clean.'
Based on 169 reviewsCommon Concerns
Significant complaints include moldy shower curtains, rude hosts, and disturbances caused by nearby fishermen or raccoons. Noted issues: 'Camp host was extremely rude,' and 'Raccoons tore a hole in...
Based on 169 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing a 'Y' connector for shared water hookups, securing trash bins against raccoons, and choosing RV spots over tent camping due to wildlife disturbances.
Based on 169 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground attracts visitors year-round, with higher satisfaction during spring and summer. Winter visitors appreciated the heated bathrooms and quiet atmosphere. Reviews indicate maintenance...
Based on 169 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Cleanest bathrooms and shower house you’ll find.' 2. 'It’s a very nice quiet campground with fishing and other activities right there.' 3. 'Campground hosts were amazing! Everything was clean.'
Based on 169 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 37: 'Perfect peaceful site facing the spillway.' Site 23: 'Our site had a nice view of Carlyle Lake, and the campground was very quiet at night.' Site 45: 'Very sunny, no shade.'
Based on 169 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible amenities like paved parking and walkways received positive feedback. 'Accessible playground and shower house,' and 'Accessible trails make hiking enjoyable for all.'
Based on 169 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences with pets; most owners followed leash rules, but there were complaints about loose dogs and dog waste: 'Two big dogs running loose by campsite 21.'
Based on 169 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025