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...
Vulture Fest
Makanda Boardwalk • Oct 17 – Oct 18
Vulture Fest features live music, food, shopping, and art by local artists for purchase.
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Haunted Hollow at Touch of Nature
Touch of Nature • Oct 25 @ 11AM
Free, fall family fun festival returns! The Haunted Hollow provides a perfect Halloween atmosphere for everyone with a balance of laughs and gasps in a safe…
Read more about Haunted Hollow at Touch of Nature
Gnome Roam at Giant City State Park
Giant City State Park • Dec 01 – Feb 28
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 Park