Cottages and camp store reopening at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

SPRINGFIELD - Visitors will be able to enjoy updated lakefront cottages and the camp store at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area in Clinton County starting May 21 in time for the traditional Memorial Day opening of the summer boating and camping season.

Concessionaire Carlyle Cottages has taken over operation of the popular cottages and camp store. Work is underway on the pool at the site.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources updated the interiors of the cottages during the past six months with new furniture, mattresses, appliances, 50-inch televisions, linens, kitchenware and more.

The camp store will open initially with convenient food, beverages and camping supplies available for purchase. Inventory will be expanded over time.

"These cottages have hosted families on Carlyle Lake for decades. Kids who came here with their parents are now bringing their own children," said Carlyle Cottages operator Michelle Aldworth. "I want to keep that tradition going by treating people right, keeping the place spotless, and ensuring our guests' time at the lake feels like home."

"We know people have been eagerly waiting for the cottages to reopen for 2026, and we're excited to welcome new and returning visitors to this beautiful lakeside park," said Calvin Beckmann, chief of parks and recreation for IDNR.

Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area can be found on the southwest side of Carlyle Lake. The site features boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, an archery range, picnicking and other outdoor activities. The park attracts more than 500,000 visitors annually.