Carlyle Lake

Redirecting...

Summer Series

Outdoor Activities and Experiences

  • Ranger Guided Tours

  • Wildlife Programs

  • STEAM Activities

  • Astronomy Nights

 

Are you ready for summer? We sure are! So much so we created a new way for you to make the most of the season.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Carlyle Lake Project is proud to present a new summer series for you and your family to enjoy. The Leisure at the Lake summer series is our effort to promote outdoor recreation through interactive, educational activities made available to individuals of all ages, children and adults alike.

Each Friday, Memorial Day through Labor Day, our park rangers and partners will present a unique experience rooted in either culture, environmental science, or wellness. “Our goal with this new, exciting series is to connect with not only the visitors of Carlyle Lake, but also with the community of Carlyle and surrounding towns,” says Park Ranger and Series Coordinator Paige Laughhunn. Explore your artistic capabilities through eco art, discover more about wildlife and the night sky, or take a guided bike tour – the choice is yours!

All activities associated with this series will be free and start at the Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center (795 Lake Rd, Carlyle, IL 62331). Pre-registration will be required in an effort to ensure all sessions remain engaging and provide the best experience possible for participants. “As a key provider of recreation, it is our mission to establish a love for the outdoors and continue to generate new ways for our visitors to experience it. We look forward to offering this series to the public and are proud to have the ability to do so.”, says Park Ranger and Head of Interpretation Darren Murphy.

If you have any additional questions regarding this series, please contact the Carlyle Lake Project Office Interpretation Department at 618-594-2484 Option 3.

Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/carlylelake

Participating Partners: Case-Halstead Public Library, Gavin Boerngen, Flex & Flow Yoga, Carlyle Lake Birding Group, Bob Hammel, Mioux Florist & Greenhouse, and River Bend Astronomy Club

2024 Schedule of Events

Birds of Carlyle Lake

Date:Friday, May 31 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: Carlyle Lake Birding Group

Food Vendors: Suits Me BBQ & Desserts

Available Slots: 50

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Birds of Carlyle Lake

Join Roger Hayes, previous Park Ranger and current member of Carlyle Lake Birding Group, for a quiet evening amongst the birds. Birding can be a joyous and rewarding activity for any individual once given the proper tools. Learn how to properly identify bird species through visual and auditory observation.

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center along Lake Road. All participants should plan to meet park rangers at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to activity time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray is encouraged.

 

Say What!? There's Armadillos in Illinois?

Date:Friday, June 7 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: Gavin Boerngen

Food Vendors: Food from the Farm/Crave Shave Ice

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Say What!? There's Armadillos in Illinois?

Join Gavin Boerngen, aspiring naturalist, for an intriguing exploration into the unexpected migration of armadillos to Illinois! Unravel the mystery behind these armored creatures' newfound presence in the state. Don't miss this chance to uncover the fascinating story of why armadillos are making Illinois their home!

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is availalbe along Lake Road near the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center. All participants should plan to meet at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to tour time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray is encouraged.

 

Harmony in Nature: Outdoor Yoga

Date:Friday, June 14 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: Flex & Flow Yoga

Available Slots: 25

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Harmony in Nature: Outdoor Yoga

Unwind under the evening sky with this rejuvenating outdoor yoga class! Stretch and breathe amidst the tranquil beauty of nature. Let go of the day's stresses as you flow through gentle poses guided by Michele Kern - experienced instructor. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, this class is perfect for all levels.

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available along Lake Road near the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center. All participants should plan to meet at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Yoga mats and bug spray are encouraged.

 

Our Marvelous Moon

Date:Friday, June 21 | 8 - 9:30pm

Presented by: Case-Halstead Public Library

Food Vendors: Suits Me BBQ & Desserts

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 5 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Our Marvelous Moon

Step into the enchanting world of our celestial neighbor with this captivating evening program all about the marvelous moon! Uncover the secrets and wonders of Earth's nearest companion. Join us under the night sky and let the magic of the moon illuminate your evening!

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available along Lake Road near the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center. All participants should plan to meet at the Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray is encouraged.

 

Sunset Dam Tour

Date:Friday, June 28 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Available Slots: 50

Suggested Age Range: 5 years and up

Location: Carlyle Lake Dam, Carlyle, IL

Register For Sunset Dam Tour on 28 June 2024

Join U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers as they embark on a unique tour of the Carlyle Lake Dam. Unlike our regularly scheduled morning tours, this tour allows participants to experience the main dam in a new light. Learn what it took to construct Carlyle Lake, how park rangers and engineers utilize the dam, and why the reservoir is an important supporter of the surrounding communities; all while enjoying a beautiful summer sunset!

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available in the West and East Spillway Recreation Areas. All participants should plan to meet park rangers atop the Carlyle Lake Main Dam. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to tour time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. The tour route is not ADA accessible due to stairs and uneven surfaces. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended.

 

Outdoor Movie Night

Date:Friday, July 12 | 8 - 9:30pm

Presented by: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Food Vendors: Food from the Farm/Crave Shave Ice

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 5 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Outdoor Movie Night

Gather your friends and family for a magical evening under the stars at our outdoor movie night! Experience the nostalgia of cinema under the forest canopy as we screen a beloved film in a cozy outdoor setting. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, and settle in for a night of entertainment and fun. Don't miss this chance to create unforgettable memories and enjoy the magic of an outdoor movie night.

Participant Requirements: Registration is FREE and highly encouraged, but not essenial for this activity. Parking for participants is available at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center along Lake Road. All participants should plan to meet park rangers at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to activity time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray and blankets are encouraged.

 

Native American Artifacts

Date:Friday, July 19 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: Bob Hammel

Food Vendors: Suits Me BBQ & Desserts

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Native American Artifacts

Embark on a journey through Illinois's rich Native American heritage with this captivating artifact presentation. Delve into the fascinating history and culture of the indigenous peoples who once called this land home. Explore a curated collection of artifacts that offer glimpses into their daily lives, traditions, and beliefs. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this presentation promises to enlighten and inspire.

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center along Lake Road. All participants should plan to meet at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to activity time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray is encouraged.

 

Sunset Dam Tour

Date:Friday, July 26 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Available Slots: 50

Suggested Age Range: 5 years and up

Location: Carlyle Lake Dam, Carlyle, IL

Register for Sunset Dam Tour on 26 July 2024

Join U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers as they embark on a unique tour of the Carlyle Lake Dam. Unlike our regularly scheduled morning tours, this tour allows participants to experience the main dam in a new light. Learn what it took to construct Carlyle Lake, how park rangers and engineers utilize the dam, and why the reservoir is an important supporter of the surrounding communities; all while enjoying a beautiful summer sunset!

Participant Requirements: Parking for participants is available in the West and East Spillway Recreation Areas. All participants should plan to meet park rangers atop the Carlyle Lake Main Dam. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to tour time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. The tour route is not ADA accessible due to stairs and uneven surfaces. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended.

 

Growing & Caring for Succulents

Date:Friday, August 2 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: Mioux Florist & Greenhouse

Food Vendors: Food from the Farm/Crave Shave Ice

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Growing & Caring for Succulents

Join Nick Mioux of Mioux Florist & Greenhouse for a morning of creativity and plant education. Buying a succulent is easy; keeping it alive can be a battle if not properly informed. Gain the skills necessary to successfully care for and grow succulent varieties with ease at this activity. All participants will be able to select and pot their own take-home succulent curtesy of Carlyle in Bloom.

Participant Requirements: Registration is required for this activity. Parking for participants is available at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center along Lake Road. All participants should plan to meet at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to activity time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray is encouraged.

 

Stargazer's Night

Date:Friday, August 16 | 8 - 9:30pm

Presented by: River Bend Astronomy Club

Food Vendors: Suits Me BBQ & Desserts

Available Slots: 100

Suggested Age Range: 10 years and up

Location: Outdoor Classroom, Carlyle, IL

Register for Stargazer's Night

Join River Bend Astronomy Club for a night under the stars! Space is a vast landscape we have discovered much about, and yet scientists still find more every day. Discover the many moving parts of our enormous solar system for yourself. Observe the Moon, fellow planets, and stars up close through a telescope. A once-in-a-lifetime experience that just might spark a new desire to learn.

Participant Requirements: Registration is FREE and highly encouraged, but not essential for this activity. Parking for participants is available at the Carlyle Lake Visitor Center along Lake Road. All participants should plan to meet at the new Outdoor Classroom located directly behind the center. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to activity time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended. Bug spray and flashlights are encouraged.

 

Sunset Dam Tour

Date:Friday, August 23 | 7 - 8pm

Presented by: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Available Slots: 50

Suggested Age Range: 5 years and up

Location: Carlyle Lake Dam, Carlyle, IL

Register for Sunset Dam Tour on 23 August 2024

Join U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers as they embark on a unique tour of the Carlyle Lake Dam. Unlike our regularly scheduled morning tours, this tour allows participants to experience the main dam in a new light. Learn what it took to construct Carlyle Lake, how park rangers and engineers utilize the dam, and why the reservoir is an important supporter of the surrounding communities; all while enjoying a beautiful summer sunset!

Participant Requirements: Registration is required for this activity. Parking for participants is available in the West and East Spillway Recreation Areas. All participants should plan to meet park rangers atop the Carlyle Lake Main Dam. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to tour time to ensure all participants get checked in successfully. The tour route is not ADA accessible due to stairs and uneven surfaces. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are recommended.