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Carlyle Lake Wildlife Management Area is located on the north end of Carlyle Lake. With more than 15,000 acres, this wildlife area offers an excellent opportunity for birdwatching, fishing or hunting. During winter months, Carlyle Lake Wildlife Management Area is a stopping place for migratory birds such as Bald Eagles, ducks, and geese. For additional information call (618) 425-3533.
Eldon Hazlet State Park is a 3,000-acre park on the west shore of Carlyle Lake. This park offers the largest campground in the Illinois State Park System with more than 300 campsites. Other activities available at Eldon Hazlet State Park include boating, fishing, hunting, picnicking, birdwatching, and hiking. Pheasant hunting is allowed November through January on 300 acres of public hunting grounds. Call (618) 594-3015 for more information about this park.
Carlyle Lake, a 26,000-acre man-made lake is one of the Midwest’s more popular sailing lakes. Regional and national regattas have been hosted at Carlyle Lake, but the most notable event was the 1994 United States Olympic Festival Sailing Competition. Carlyle Lake also offers anglers more than 30 species of fish to catch. Other activities include swimming, camping, birdwatching, and golfing.
Ramsey Lake State Park offers scenic hills, wildlife-filled woods, and a beautiful lake. There are more than 13 miles of equestrian trails and a small campground for guests with horses. Other activities for visitors include fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and picnicking. During winter months the park and its facilities provide for ice fishing, snowmobiling, ice skating, sledding, and cross-country skiing. For more information about Ramsey Lake State Park call (618) 423-2215.