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

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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.

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!

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Featured Addresses
Carlyle Lake, Carlyle Township, IL 62231, USA