Cabin camping near Benton, Illinois centers around Rend Lake, a 19,000-acre reservoir with 162 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms. Most cabin rentals operate seasonally from March through November, though some facilities maintain year-round availability.
What to do
Fishing access: Gun Creek Campground offers lakeside sites with direct water access. "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," notes Jeff F., highlighting the terrain variations that affect site selection.
Water activities: South Marcum Campground provides multiple access points for boating and swimming. "Great camping, usual campground with clean facility's. My family & i enjoy the lake for fishing, boating, swimming & beach time!" reports Kelly B., emphasizing the diverse water recreation options.
Wildlife observation: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground is known for abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "Abundant Wildlife... We had 3 of the sites closest to the lake with only electric. The campground is well kept, about 20 minutes from any groceries so come with your necessities," advises Tina J.
Hiking trails: Visitors can explore multiple trails around the lake. "We walked a nature trail and down by the lake. There were ducks and geese, and it was a lovely reprieve from our travels to walk along the edges of the lake," shares Amy E. about her experience at Arrowhead Lake Campground.
What campers like
Site privacy: Gun Creek offers varied site layouts. "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table," shares Brennan M., noting the campground accommodates different camping styles.
Water views: Many visitors appreciate the lakefront positioning. "The view in the tent area of covey point is breathtaking. The campground is clean, quiet, and peaceful," says Hollie C. about her experience at South Marcum Campground.
Shaded sites: South Marcum Campground provides cooling tree cover during hot summer months. "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," shares CHris B.
Off-season value: Whittington Woods Campground maintains reasonable rates year-round. "Great campground with wooded sites. Close to the interstate, but not too close. A good mix of sites, the back in sites are open enough that it's not too challenging getting in," notes Dan L.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Benton KOA sits near transportation routes. "Very convenient off the interstate, but also noisy due to the interstate being right there. Small park, quite a few permanent residents," reports Ellen S., highlighting the location tradeoffs.
Site selection strategy: Carefully research individual sites before booking. "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline, which seems ok for Smaller rigs," advises a reviewer at Gun Creek.
Reservation systems: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park uses a mixed reservation approach. "The stay was pleasant and the lake was very nice but the reservation system and finding a spot was overly complicated for a first timer," explains Blake M., noting the challenges with same-day arrivals.
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities have limited operating periods. "This COE campground is conveniently located and just a quick off ramp from the Interstate... The site is shaded and fairly level with a nice lake view and direct access," notes Susan L. about Gun Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Arrowhead Lake Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "Wifi fiber being installed, boat ramp, primitive cabin, tent camping, large children's playground. Very nice, quiet, clean," shares Lori W.
Beach options: Families appreciate swimming areas during summer months. "This is a nice campground with many waterfront sites! It is nicely wooded, with a great boat ramp and boat parking area and close to a nice bike trail!" notes a reviewer at Gun Creek.
Supply runs: Keep track of store hours and distances. "Close to town for the forgotten marshmallows! Amazing sunsets over beautiful Rend lake!" shares Kelly B. about South Marcum Campground's convenient location.
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires planning. "Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly! There was also a little skunk walking around this morning," warns Brennan M. about Gun Creek conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Crab Orchard Lake offers different utility setups. "Full hookups are in Loop B & it was full. Overall the campground was full but not very many people around," shares Tracie E., noting the popularity difference between loops.
Leveling challenges: Many sites throughout the area require adjustments. "Overall a great stay, very busy as it was full the entire time we were there while the state park down the road was empty. Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book," advises a reviewer about Gun Creek.
Utility access: Electric options vary by location. "Gun Creek has many sites for all campers. For cheap you get a simple site with electric or for not too much more there are sites with water and sewage dump," explains Dave S.
Weekend planning: Sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "We've Camped At Gun A Few Times Now And Have Had A Great Experience Every Time!!" shares Dave S., who returns regularly to secure preferred sites.
