Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR

Maps of Crab Orchard Campground are available from the campground office or visitor center when you arrive. For advance planning, you can find official maps on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website for Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. The campground has multiple loops, including Loop A and Loop B, with maps showing the layout of sites around the lake. Consider contacting the refuge headquarters directly for the most current maps, especially if planning during renovation periods.

Yes, Crab Orchard Campground is located within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Illinois. The campground is situated directly on Crab Orchard Lake, offering waterfront access within the protected refuge area. This location provides a unique camping experience where visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation while surrounded by the natural habitats and wildlife conservation areas of the refuge.

Crab Orchard Lake offers spacious campsites with most being lakeside locations. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum stay of 14 days. There are multiple loops, including Loop A and Loop B, with Loop B providing full hookup sites for RVs. Sites are generally large, level, and shaded by trees. The campground caters to family camping with quiet, spacious spots offering lake views. Some campers report the campground fills quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

No, Crab Orchard Lake Campground does not offer cabin accommodations. The camping options are limited to traditional campsites for tents and RVs, with full hookup sites available in Loop B. The campground focuses on providing spacious, lakeside sites for visitors bringing their own camping equipment. For those seeking cabin accommodations, you'll need to look at alternative lodging options in the surrounding area outside the wildlife refuge.