Dam West Day Use
Overview
Dam West Day Use Area is situated on the southern 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.Recreation
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. 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 are multiple playgrounds on-site as well as a designated swimming beach. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Facilities
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. 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 are multiple playgrounds on-site as well as a designated swimming beach. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Natural Features
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.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 594-2484.Nearby Attractions
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.
Activities
- Wildlife Viewing
- Water Sports
- Day Use Area
- Swimming Site
- Hunting
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Interpretive Programs
- Boating
- Biking
- Visitor Center
Media
![Dam West Day Use](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2018/09/17/17/39/233785_b9f4d424-ceea-487f-99eb-78ae42e674e3_700.jpg)
![Dam West Day Use](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2018/09/17/17/38/233785_636c1d61-4dec-402d-b695-a501c288c66f_1440.jpg)
![Dam West Day Use](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/images/70587.jpg)