Activity
Conditions
Amenities
East Dam - 2
East Dam - 2 is a public boat ramp on Kaskaskia River - Carlyle Lake near Huey, Illinois. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Launch into Kaskaskia River - Carlyle Lake near Huey, Illinois. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.
East Dam - 2 is a public access point on Kaskaskia River - Carlyle Lake in Illinois, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.
You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 5 min from Huey, East Dam - 2 is a convenient option for Huey-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make East Dam - 2 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access East Dam - 2?
- East Dam - 2 is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at East Dam - 2?
- East Dam - 2 supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at East Dam - 2?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit East Dam - 2?
- The best time to paddle at East Dam - 2 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at East Dam - 2?
- Water conditions at East Dam - 2 include calm, sheltered.
- Is East Dam - 2 good for beginners?
- Yes, East Dam - 2 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.6178, -89.3171
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Carlyle Lake
1 other launch on this water body
Nearby Paddling

East Dam - 1
Illinois · 0.2 mi

Carlyle Lake
Illinois · 2.1 mi
Carlyle Lake
Illinois · 2.3 mi
Carlyle Lake
Illinois · 2.8 mi
Carlyle Lake
Illinois · 3.2 mi
Carlyle Lake
Illinois · 3.7 mi