Campers visiting Benton, Illinois have access to numerous sites around Rend Lake, a reservoir spanning 18,900 acres with 162 miles of shoreline. The lake sits at 405 feet above sea level with surrounding campgrounds offering sites on gently sloping terrain. Winter temperatures average 30-45°F while summer months typically reach 75-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek Campground offers excellent fishing access directly from lakefront sites. "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. about Gun Creek.
Beach activities: North Sandusky Campground provides a sand beach for swimming during warm months. "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground," shares Missy D. about South Sandusky Campground.
Biking trails: Paved trails connect multiple camping areas around the lake. "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," explains Jason A., adding that it's "close to a nice bike trail."
What campers like
Lakefront views: Many sites at South Marcum offer unobstructed lake panoramas. "If I was in any other spot this would probably be a 4/5, but spot 56 has a crazy lake view and is on the tip of an outlook with pretty nice privacy!" reports Eli R. about South Marcum Campground.
Wildlife sightings: The wooded areas around campsites harbor diverse wildlife. "Great campground in the lake. Clean bathhouses. Lots of deer and turkey!" says Garrett F. about South Marcum.
Level, spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature well-designed camping areas. "Using your GPS of choice, you can reach this campground off I-57 via Benton or the IL-154/Sesser exit. The area includes both North Sandusky and South Sandusky COE campgrounds, clearly marked and easy to find," explains MickandKarla W. about South Sandusky Campground.
What you should know
Interstate noise levels: Some campgrounds are affected by highway sounds. "Yes, there is highway noise. It's a KOA. Convenience of being easy off an interstate has its tradeoffs. That said, excellent staff, clean, professional KOA," says Tom B. about Benton KOA.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require some adjustment for RVs. "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, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline," advises Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek.
Seasonal operations: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds operate from March through November. "North Sandusky Campground is a Corps of Engineers campground just off I-57 in southern Illinois with over 100 reservable campsites. Sites have 30 & 50 amp Electric hookups," informs Joel R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Fun place to be," states Rhonda M. about South Sandusky, while another camper mentions "fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, playgrounds. Water and sewer hookups with 30/50 amp electric. Lots of shade. Friendly staff."
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safe water recreation. "The view in the tent area of covey point is breathtaking. The campground is clean, quiet, and peaceful," shares Hollie C. about South Marcum Campground.
Yurt camping options: While traditional camping dominates, some sites near Benton, Illinois offer yurt accommodations. "Just beautiful, the Corp of Engineering's really take care of these camp grounds, very clean, most have new showers. Love it here, just wish I could stay all year round," comments Jim L. about North Marcum, which offers both traditional camping and yurt options near Benton, Illinois.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Check which loops offer complete services. "Great campground.. 50 amp service, some with water and some with Full hookup... Dump stations are EZ access on the way out..... Bathrooms were clean, loved Rend Lake," reports kent F. about South Marcum.
Cell service coverage: Working remotely is possible at many sites. "Large sites, well maintained, good cell service. We had ATT and Tmobile service at our site. Signal was strong enough to stream video and work remotely," shares Jason A. about North Sandusky.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs. "The Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section. Note that the loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad," advises MickandKarla W.
