If you’re looking for a destination in the Prairie State that feels like a true vacation spot, head to Carlyle Lake. The largest man-made swimming hole in Illinois is a great spot to head for a dip in the water or a day out fishing!
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, and it’s as deep as 35 feet in some spots!
Wikimedia Commons / U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
It took almost a decade to build this enormous reservoir, and it was finally opened to the public in the late 1960s. Today, it remains a family-friendly destination for anyone who wants to spend some time by an endless expanse of water, without traveling all the way to Lake Michigan.
Facebook / Carlyle Lake
If you want to spend a day on the shore sunbathing, wading, playing beach games, or enjoying the view from a picnic blanket, it’s hard to top Carlyle Lake. No wonder this man-made lake in Illinois is so popular with families!
Facebook / Carlyle Lake
The average depth of the lake is just 11 feet, and it’s a haven for fishermen. Cast a reel and you’ll be bringing in catfish after catfish all day long!
Facebook / Carlyle Lake
At the end of the day, you might even be treated to a beautiful sunset over the water. When the clouds and sky cooperate, some of the most stunning scenes in the Midwest come together over Carlyle Lake.
Facebook / Carlyle Lake
If you’re looking for all the information you need to plan a day on the lake, the City of Carlyle maintains the lake and provides plenty of information on this swimming hole in Illinois on its website.
Wikimedia Commons / U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Facebook / Carlyle Lake
Despite the Prairie State being mostly landlocked, it’s not too hard to find a scenic and serene swimming hole in Illinois. If you want to Find Swimming Holes Near You in Illinois, just do a little bit of digging through our archives!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Carlyle Lake, Carlyle Township, IL 62231, USA
