Poplar Camp Beach
Poplar Camp Rd., Makanda, IL 62958
Swimming
Try cooling off at this family friendly beach located in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Beautiful sandy waterfront on Cedar Lake. State certified Lifeguards on duty during beach hours, lap lane, restrooms, picnic tables and a concession area. Self-serve kayak rental kiosk with paddles and life jackets. Boat ramp and free parking available.
Five minutes south of Carbondale is the city reservoir, Cedar Lake, a 1,750-acre reservoir in Southern Illinois created by the damming of Cedar Creek, a tributary of the Big Muddy River in 1974. The lake is located in Jackson County, southwest of Carbondale, and accessible from U.S. Highway 51. The lake was constructed to supply tap water to the residents of Carbondale. Cedar Lake is also open to kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
What's happening nearby...
Gnome Roam at Giant City State Park
Giant City State Park • Dec 01 – Jan 31
Visiting the Gnome Roam at Giant City State Park combines the beauty of nature with a touch of whimsy by hiking among mesmerizing forests and finding…
Read more about Gnome Roam at Giant City State ParkMaple Syrup Festival
Mar 22 – Mar 23 @ 9AM
Enjoy two full days of family fun including maple syrup demonstrations, pancake breakfast, nature hikes, lumberjack demonstrations, children's activities, vendors and artisans, and much more.
Read more about Maple Syrup FestivalLittle Grassy Get Down Music Festival
Touch of Nature • Oct 10 – Oct 12
Get Down to Makanda, IL for 3 days of live music, campfire jams and art, environmental and music education. Barn dance, kids trick-or-treating and a full-service…
Read more about Little Grassy Get Down Music Festival