Kayaking and fishing enthusiasts will find direct water access at this Fish and Wildlife Service campground on Little Grassy Lake in southern Illinois. The established RV park provides hookups for around $30 per night, with lakefront sites available for those wanting immediate water access. An on-site store stocks fishing bait and rents kayaks and canoes at reasonable rates.
The campground sits within Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, giving campers access to a 1,000-acre lake known for its fishing opportunities. Sites vary in privacy depending on timing and availability. Daniel P. notes the location has a "nice chill vibe" with its lakefront setting and rental amenities.
Road access to the campground is straightforward, though some maintenance issues have been reported by recent visitors. The facility allows pets and accepts reservations, making it accessible for families planning lake-focused camping trips. For additional camping options in the area, explore campgrounds outside Makanda.
Nearby alternatives include Touch of Nature Education Center and Devils Kitchen Campground, both within the same wildlife refuge system. Book ahead during peak fishing season for the best lakefront site selection.
Description
Little Grassy Lake Campground & Marina sits on Little Grassy Lake, located inside Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. It offers boating and fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Where 1,000 acres of crystal clear water , 4 miles long, 1 mile wide, up to 60 feet deep and 31 miles of wooded rocky shoreline create the most scenic lake in southern Illinois.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
RV ParkLittle Grassy Lake - Crab Orchard NWR is located in Illinois
Directions
788 Hidden Bay Lane, Makanda, IL 62958 From I-57 take 13 west to Giant City Road go south seven miles to Grassy road make a left 2nd road on the right is Hidden Bay Lane. We are at the end of the road.
Coordinates
37.64400085 N
89.16200036 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 51 min from Paducah, KY
- 57 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 54 min from St. Louis, MO
- 1 hr 56 min from Evansville, IN
