Rend Lake defines the camping landscape around Benton, Illinois, with over 18,000 acres of water offering recreational opportunities. The region sits at approximately 405 feet elevation and experiences humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Many camping spots near Benton remain open from late March through early November, though site availability varies significantly during peak fishing seasons when crappie and bass are most active.
What to do
Fishing from your site: Several campgrounds at Gun Creek offer direct water access for anglers. "Great rates and even better campsites. We got there late and had no problems finding a great campsite right next to the lake," notes Jonathan W.
Biking the lake trails: The paved network connecting recreation areas provides car-free exploration options around COE Rend Lake North Sandusky Recreation Area. According to Jason A., "North Sandusky Campground is a gem in Southern Illinois. Many of the sites are backed up to Rend lake and the others back up to the woods... We had ATT and Tmobile service at our site. Signal was strong enough to stream video and work remotely."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime opportunities for spotting local fauna at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground. "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day. Spots are first come first serve but seldom sell out," shares Lucas T.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Unlike crowded private campgrounds, South Marcum Campground provides ample room between sites. "The campground gives campers plenty of room to spread out, lots of open space for the kids to play, and not crowded when we stopped by late July," reports Chris B.
Clean facilities: Shower houses receive frequent maintenance at many Rend Lake campgrounds. One camper at South Sandusky Day Use noted, "Very clean, new showers," while Phil W. observed at North Sandusky, "The shower house and rest rooms were clean and well-kept."
Sunset views: Waterfront sites provide spectacular evening views. "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," explains Jeff F. about Gun Creek, while Brennan M. adds, "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table."
What you should know
Site reservation timing: Many lakefront spots fill quickly, especially at South Sandusky Campground, which receives high demand. Moe F. reports, "Nice, large, well thought out campground. Lots of trees, paved sites, bathrooms, showers, and well maintained. Offers full hookups, partial or none."
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity increases significantly during summer months. Brennan M. warns, "Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly! There was also a little skunk walking around this morning."
Site leveling challenges: Many waterfront sites feature sloping terrain requiring leveling equipment. At North Sandusky Rend Lake, Phil W. noted, "Most sites are level but ours (#90) had a drop off between the drive way and the picnic table/fire ring. We had to use blocks so our camper stairs would reach the ground."
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: Multiple swimming areas accommodate different preferences around the lake. "Large spacious sites, close to swimming beaches, although not walking distance. Tree covered and offer some privacy. Great place to meet with family and friends," explains Debra G. at Rend Lake.
Wildlife education opportunities: Morning deer sightings provide natural learning experiences for children. Carol B. shares, "Beautiful and spacious camp sights in a quiet environment. We have had deer playing on an adjacent site to us. Fun place to camp with family and friends."
Off-peak advantages: For quieter family experiences, consider weekday camping at Whittington Woods Campground. "Beautiful campground with mature trees providing lots of shade on the 100F weekend we were there. Gravel sites, level. A lot of common ground, shaded, picnic shelters. Short drive to Rend Lake, bike trails, kayaks, fishing," reports Jan S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVs, verify site angles and approach clearance before reserving. MickandKarla W. advises about South Sandusky, "The loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad."
Signal reliability: Remote work capabilities vary by campground location. At North Sandusky, Jason A. confirmed, "We had ATT and Tmobile service at our site. Signal was strong enough to stream video and work remotely."
Hookup configurations: Some sites have unusual utility placements. Kent F. notes about South Marcum, "Great camp ground.. 50 amp service, some with water and some with Full hookup... Dump stations are EZ access on the way out."
