Carlyle Lake

Carlyle Lake is a reservoir located in south-central Illinois, United States. It is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, covering approximately 26,000 acres (105 km²) at normal pool. The lake was created in 1967 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the damming of the Kaskaskia River. Its primary purposes are flood control, recreation, and water supply.

The lake is situated primarily in Clinton County, with portions extending into Fayette and Bond counties. The surrounding area is a mixture of agricultural land, forests, and wetlands, supporting a diverse ecosystem.

Carlyle Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and hunting are widely available. Numerous marinas, campgrounds, and trails are located around the lake. Anglers frequently target species such as crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages Carlyle Lake and its surrounding recreational facilities. The lake also plays a crucial role in regional flood control by storing excess water during periods of heavy rainfall, mitigating downstream flooding. It also serves as a water source for nearby communities.