Royal Lakes is a village in Macoupin County, Illinois, United States.

Three small lakes – Meshach, Shad, and Shadrach – were constructed for recreational purposes and the remaining land was divided into 2,435 lots, each measuring 25 by 125 feet (7.6 by 38.1 m).

The community was heavily promoted in the predominantly African American neighborhoods of St. Louis and East St.

Due to Royal Lakes' status as a "resort" area, a lack of zoning regulations meant that there had been no provisions for the developer to provide basic infrastructure.

With no road maintenance, water supply, or proper sewage disposal, the overall quality of life for residents of the community deteriorated.

[7][8] The village's first mayor, Thomas J. Stoddard, and other members of the municipal government took office in April 1973.

The portion of Royal Lakes lying east of Julian Avenue is served by Bunker Hill Community Unit School District 8.

Areas west of Julian Avenue are served by Southwestern Community Unit School District 9.