Camping sites around Benton, Illinois range from lakeside settings on Rend Lake to forested areas within Shawnee National Forest. The region sits at approximately 400-500 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and mild to cold winters. Many campgrounds maintain accessibility from March through November, with several Corps of Engineers facilities offering well-maintained sites around the 19,000-acre Rend Lake.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek Campground provides excellent lake access for anglers. "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table... Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly!" notes Brennan M.
Wildlife viewing: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park offers abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "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 neccessities," reports Tina J. at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Ferne Clyffe State Park features limestone bluffs and seasonal waterfalls. "Great covered spots, trails to and from the campground all across the park, great personnel, accessibility throughout the park, scenic locations within a mile walk from the campground (Ferne Clyffe Waterfall)," explains Hannah S. at Deer Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: South Sandusky Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Most of the sites are wooded with space between them, and many have lake views. They are not very level so some adjustments were needed," says Joel R. at South Sandusky Campground.
Sunset views: Gun Creek Campground provides memorable lake vistas. "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," writes Jeff F. at Gun Creek.
Clean facilities: Ferne Clyffe State Park maintains good bathroom facilities. "Nice quiet campground with lots of trees and nicely separated camp spots. Water only available at few spots and you would need a really long hose to attach if open faucet available."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds have specific reservation procedures. "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. Basically people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave," explains Blake M. regarding Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park.
Site leveling: Many campsites require adjustments for level setup. "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.
Equestrian options: Beyond the main horse campgrounds near Benton, Illinois, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge offers alternative camping. "Nice campground, right on Crab Orchard Lake. Large sites, lots of room. We camped with several other families and everyone enjoyed this park," reports Joel R. at Crab Orchard Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: South Sandusky features accessible swimming areas. "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground. There were kids everywhere and everyone was very friendly! Fun spot!" reports Missy D.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide play areas for children. "Fishing. Swimming, hiking, boating, playgrounds. Water and sewer hookups with 30/50 amp electric. Lots of shade. Friendly staff," notes Rhonda M.
Nature exploration: Giant City State Park offers diverse wildlife viewing. "This is a great state park campground. They have electric sites, and water is available but you need to fill your tank before setting up camp. Giant City has great hiking and wildlife viewing," says Joel R. at Giant City State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: South Sandusky provides various utility configurations. "Using your GPS of choice, you can reach this campground off I-57 via Benton or the IL-154/Sesser exit. Most sites here offer water and electric (50/30/20 AMP), while the Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section," advises MickandKarla W.
Pull-through availability: Shawnee Forest Campground offers convenient pull-through sites. "Great pull through sites, several ponds fishing catch and release very nice walking paths plenty of woods easy on easy off one of akind campground a must visit," says Michael S. at Shawnee Forest Campground.
Camping with horses: For equestrian-friendly RV camping beyond traditional horse campgrounds near Benton, Illinois, prepare to bring portable containment systems. "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.
