Carlyle has been named one of the 12 Best Boating Cities in the United States for the second year in a row. The list is put together by BoatBooker.
Carlyle Lake is recognized for its calm lake setting, relaxed atmosphere, and the welcoming boating community surrounding Illinois’ largest man-made lake.
BoatBooker notes the wide-open waters are perfect for cruising, sailing, and family-friendly outings. Visitors can enjoy pontoon rides, speedboat excursions, or fishing trips targeting bass, crappie, and catfish, all supported by experienced local captains and accessible marinas. Kayaking and paddle boarding are also popular, giving travelers a peaceful way to explore scenic coves and shorelines.
Off the water, BoatBooker finds Carlyle’s trails, picnic areas, campgrounds, and wildlife-viewing spots make it easy to turn a day on the lake into a full outdoor getaway.
The ratings are based on a combination of variety and quality of boating experiences, customer interest and booking trends, accessibility of rivers, lakes, and costal waterways, input from local captains and operators and broader destination appeal and tourism momentum.
Carlyle Lake is the only lake in Illinois to make the list.
