Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, Outdoor recreation area near Carlyle Lake, Illinois.
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area is a large protected area along the western shore of Carlyle Lake with hiking trails, forests, and lakeside landscapes. The site offers different accommodation options directly by the water along with day-use facilities for visitors.
This area was created in the 1960s when Carlyle Lake was built as a dam project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It was named after Eldon Hazlet, a local attorney who had advocated for conservation in the Kaskaskia Valley.
This place has been a gathering spot for families from the region for many decades, drawing repeat visitors across generations. People come here to create memories and pass down their love of outdoor time to their children.
The area is easy to navigate and accessible for both overnight guests and day visitors. It's helpful to plan your visit around the season, since some facilities operate only during specific times of the year.
The area has rustic cottages right by the water that offer an alternative to camping and are available year-round. These accommodations let visitors enjoy the lake without needing to pitch a tent.
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