Eldon Hazlet State Park

For Illinois residents seeking a top-tier outdoor experience, Eldon Hazlet State Park in Carlyle stands as a premier destination. Located on the beautiful shores of Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in Illinois, this state park offers an expansive and well-maintained environment for various recreational activities, with its camping facilities, especially the Illini Campground, being a major draw. Visitors consistently praise the park for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and the spaciousness of its campsites, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Eldon Hazlet State Park is not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With over 800,000 visitors annually, it caters to a diverse range of interests, from avid anglers and boaters to hikers and families simply looking to spend quality time together outdoors. The park’s commitment to providing a clean and well-kept environment ensures that every visit is comfortable and memorable. Whether you're passing through on a long journey or planning a dedicated vacation, Eldon Hazlet State Park offers the perfect setting for making lasting memories amidst Illinois's scenic landscapes.

The tranquil setting, combined with ample opportunities for engaging with nature, makes Eldon Hazlet State Park a highly recommended spot for Illinois locals. Its reputation for being a "beautiful, clean place" to hike and its convenient amenities truly underscore its suitability as a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Eldon Hazlet State Park is situated at Carlyle, IL 62231, USA. More specifically, the park office is located at 20100 Hazlet Park Road, Carlyle, IL 62231. This strategic location places it directly on the shores of Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in Illinois, encompassing 25,000 acres of water and 11,000 acres of land.

Accessibility to Eldon Hazlet State Park is notably convenient for travelers. It is "conveniently located just off of Route 70," specifically about an hour east of St. Louis, Missouri. This makes it an easily reachable destination for residents of the greater St. Louis metropolitan area and for those traveling along major interstate routes in Illinois. From St. Louis, visitors typically take I-64/44 East to the Carlyle exit (Route 50), then follow Route 50 East to Route 127, turning left north of Carlyle to reach the park.

The park's internal roads are well-maintained, leading to various campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. Many campsites within the Illini Campground are located "on the beautiful Carlyle Lake" or "a stone's throw from the lake," offering stunning views and easy access to the water. This immediate proximity to the lake allows for seamless transitions from campsite relaxation to water-based activities. The park is also within a short drive of the town of Carlyle, where visitors can find additional services, supplies, and dining options, blending natural immersion with practical convenience. The accessibility and scenic location truly make Eldon Hazlet State Park a prime spot for Illinois outdoor enthusiasts.

Eldon Hazlet State Park, particularly its Illini Campground, offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The Illini Campground features 328 Class A campsites equipped with 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups, accommodating a wide range of RVs and trailers (up to 45 feet in length). Many sites also offer water hookups.

• Tent Camping: In addition to RV sites, there are 36 Class C campsites designated for walk-in tent camping.

• Clean Restrooms and Shower Buildings: The campground boasts three shower buildings and numerous privy toilets, which are consistently praised by visitors for being "very clean and well kept."

• Dump Stations: Convenient dump stations are available for RVs to dispose of wastewater.

• Campground Store: An on-site campground store is located at the entrance to the Illini Campground, offering groceries, camping and fishing supplies, clothes, live bait, ice, and firewood.

• Public Swimming Pool: A public swimming pool is located behind the campground store, open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. It features a zero-entry to 4.5-foot depth and is staffed by lifeguards, making it ideal for families. (User fee applies).

• Laundry Room: A public laundry room is available, providing convenience for longer stays.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring/grill for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.

• Playgrounds: Several sets of playground equipment are located throughout the park, including within the campground, catering to families with children.

• Boat Ramps and Sailboat Harbor: The park provides multiple boat ramps for easy lake access. A 40-acre sailboat harbor is also available, operated by the Carlyle Sailing Association.

• Fish Cleaning Stations: For anglers, fish cleaning stations are provided for convenience.

• Hiking and Horse Trails: Over 9 miles of hiking trails and designated horse trails are available for exploration within the park.

These extensive services highlight Eldon Hazlet State Park's commitment to providing a full-service camping and recreational experience.

Eldon Hazlet State Park offers a remarkable array of features and highlights that consistently receive praise from visitors, making it a highly desirable camping destination in Illinois.

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: Many campsites are "on the beautiful Carlyle Lake," offering picturesque views and direct access to Illinois's largest man-made lake. This proximity to the water enhances the overall aesthetic and provides ample opportunities for boating and fishing.

• Spacious and Level Campsites: Reviewers commend the "spacious" nature of the sites, with "level gravel pads" that make setup easy for RVs and tents. Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire ring, enhancing the outdoor living experience.

• Cleanliness and Maintenance: The park's dedication to cleanliness is a recurring theme, with campgrounds described as "very clean and well kept," and restrooms being "very clean and tidy." This attention to detail creates a pleasant environment for all visitors.

• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping, the park offers a wealth of activities. There are "nine miles of trails" for hiking and RC cars, excellent fishing opportunities (with a dedicated fishing pond for children), and access to boating, swimming (at the public pool and beach), and even hunting. Sailboat regattas are a common sight on summer weekends.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With multiple playgrounds, a public swimming pool, and easy access to a swimming beach, the park is exceptionally well-suited for families with children.

• Convenient Location: Its position "just off of Route 70" (I-55 and close to I-70, about an hour east of St. Louis) makes it highly accessible for both short and long stays, minimizing travel time and maximizing enjoyment.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed in the park and campgrounds, provided they are on a leash and cleaned up after, which is a major plus for many travelers. However, pets are generally not allowed in the Hazlet Cottages.

• On-Site Convenience: The presence of a campground store for supplies, laundry facilities, and readily available firewood and ice adds a layer of convenience, reducing the need to leave the park for essentials.

These features collectively make Eldon Hazlet State Park a highly attractive and functional choice for anyone seeking an enriching outdoor experience in Illinois.

As an Illinois State Park campground, Eldon Hazlet State Park operates under the pricing and reservation structures set by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). While it doesn't typically run commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the private sector sense, there are established benefits and potential discounts that make it an appealing and often affordable option for locals.

• Standardized Camping Fees: Camping rates are set by the IDNR and generally range from $20 per day for Class A sites with electrical hookups. These rates are consistent and transparent, providing clear pricing for budget planning.

• Senior and Disability Discounts: Illinois residents who are seniors (62 and older) or individuals with a Class 2 or 2A disability card may be eligible for reduced camping fees on certain days, typically during non-holiday weekdays. It is always advisable to inquire about these specific discounts upon reservation or check-in.

• Longer Stay Maximums: Campsites may be reserved for a maximum of 14 nights in any 30-day period, or 30 days out of a 45-day period for specific "30-day sites." While not a discount, this flexibility allows for extended stays without requiring re-booking, which can be a form of value for long-term campers.

• Value-Added Amenities: The inclusive nature of many services – such as access to clean restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and playgrounds – provides significant value within the standard camping fee, effectively functioning as a built-in "promotion" of comprehensive facilities.

• Off-Season Accessibility: During the non-peak season (November - March), specific loops within the campground (e.g., Spillway Loop of Dam East - McNair Campground) may remain open, offering camping opportunities even when other areas are closed. While rates might be adjusted, this offers year-round access for committed campers.

Reservations for campsites can be made 180 days in advance, often through the ExploreMoreIL™ system, which may have its own reservation fees ($5 non-refundable reservation fee). For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and specific discount eligibility, it is always recommended to check the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website or contact the park directly.

For all inquiries, reservations, and detailed information about Eldon Hazlet State Park and its camping facilities, please use the following contact details:

Address: 20100 Hazlet Park Road, Carlyle, IL 62231, USA

Phone: (618) 594-3015

Fax: (618) 594-8481

Email: John.R.Lay@ILLINOIS.GOV (Primary Contact: John Lay) or Michelle.Seelhoefer@illinois.gov (Secondary Contact: Michelle Seelhoefer)

Additionally, for campground store and public pool inquiries, you can call (618) 594-8701. For Hazlet Cottages, overlooking the lake, contact (618) 594-8702 or email HazletCottages@gmail.com.

Reservations for campsites can also be made online through the ExploreMoreIL™ website (www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Camp/Pages/EldonHazlet.aspx) or by calling the central reservation system at (877) 444-6777 (or TDD at (877) 833-6777).

When contacting the park, it's advisable to inquire about:

• Current camping rates and any eligibility for senior or other discounts.

• Specific site availability for your desired dates, especially for peak seasons or holidays which may require a 2 or 3-night minimum stay.

• Details on specific site features (e.g., 30/50 amp, water hookups, accessibility).

• Any current fire restrictions or park advisories.

• Information on guided hikes or special programs during your visit.

Utilizing these contact methods will ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information for planning your visit to Eldon Hazlet State Park.

Eldon Hazlet State Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for Illinois locals seeking a diverse and high-quality outdoor experience. Its strategic location on Carlyle Lake, just an hour east of St. Louis, offers remarkable accessibility for weekend getaways or longer vacations without extensive travel. The park's crowning jewel, the Illini Campground, consistently receives accolades for its cleanliness, spacious and level sites, and essential amenities like electrical hookups and clean bathhouses. This commitment to comfort and maintenance ensures a pleasant stay for all types of campers, from RVers to tent enthusiasts.

What truly sets Eldon Hazlet apart is the sheer breadth of activities available. From diverse hiking trails and excellent fishing opportunities on Carlyle Lake to boating, swimming at the public pool and beach, and even dedicated areas for hunting, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. The family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds, make it an ideal choice for creating cherished memories with loved ones. For Illinois residents who prioritize a clean, convenient, and activity-rich natural escape, Eldon Hazlet State Park offers an unparalleled experience, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for those eager to embrace the beauty and recreation of Illinois's great outdoors.