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...

Midwest Environmental Education Conference at Touch of Nature
Touch of Nature • Nov 13 – Nov 15
The Environmental Education Association of Illinois will hold the Midwest Environmental Education Conference (MEEC), from November 13th to 15th in Makanda, IL. to connect with a…
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Holiday Open House at Blue Sky Vineyards
Blue Sky Vineyards • Nov 28 – Nov 29 @ 11AM
Blue Sky Vineyard is a perfect destination along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail to kick off the holiday season.
Read more about Holiday Open House at Blue Sky VineyardsHoliday Open House At Blue Sky Vineyard
Blue Sky Vineyards • Nov 28 – Nov 29 @ 1PM
Anchoring the eastern end of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, Blue Sky offers a taste of Tuscany in the hills of Southern Illinois
Read more about Holiday Open House At Blue Sky Vineyard