Rend Lake serves as the focal point for camping near Bonnie, Illinois, with over 20,000 acres of water and 160 miles of shoreline. The lake sits at an elevation of 405 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Most campgrounds in this region operate from March through November, with limited winter camping options.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek offers excellent access to Rend Lake's abundant fish population. "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table," notes Brennan M., who recommends preparing for mosquitoes due to the lake proximity.
Hiking trails: Multiple connected paths allow for exploration throughout the region. At Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, "There is a short hiking trail that will take you to the resort," according to Chad K. The paved bike trails also connect many camping areas around Rend Lake.
Water activities: Swimming beaches and boat launches are available at multiple locations. "The campground is close to a wal mart and a Mexican restaurant. There are a couple of beach areas you can walk or ride a bike to," notes Jacqueline F. about Dam West Spillway, making it convenient to combine water activities with supply runs.
What Campers Like
Wildlife viewing: The region offers numerous wildlife spotting opportunities. At Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park, Tina J. reports "Abundant Wildlife" and mentions "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."
Quiet camping atmosphere: Many campgrounds provide peaceful settings despite their popularity. At South Sandusky Campground, Joel R. describes it as "a Corps of Engineers campground on Rend Lake, just off I-57 in Southern Illinois. There are 8 tent sites & 119 sites with electric and full hook-ups. Most of the sites are wooded with space between them."
Lake views: Waterfront sites are highly sought after. "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," reports Jeff F. about Gun Creek, highlighting the scenic water views available at many sites.
What You Should Know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Wayne Fitzgerrell, Blake M. notes: "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."
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites around Rend Lake have uneven terrain. "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 Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek.
Limited facilities at some locations: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area, Nichole M. reports: "There are no restrooms, only pit toilets, so obviously no showers. The campground was pretty quiet for a holiday weekend so that was nice."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Chris B. mentions Dam West Spillway is "very clean and safe for young children. The camp spots are spacious with some paved spots or gravel. They have outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children."
Beach proximity: Choose sites near swimming areas for convenience with kids. At Dam West Spillway, Sarah J. had "a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice and it was so clean and the area was lovely. There were bathrooms with clean toilets locks and showers, laundry access, a marina, massive amounts of fish spots, several playgrounds."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer programs for children. "They have outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children," notes Chris B. about Dam West, making it ideal for families wanting to combine recreation with learning.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be limited, so book early. At Giant City State Park Campground, Michael M. notes the campground was "being upgraded this year in which I believe they are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites."
Size restrictions: Check site dimensions before booking. MickandKarla W. advises about South Sandusky: "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."
Water access points: Not all sites have water hookups. At Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, Tracie E. mentions: "Hosts told us they were making more space for specific species of trees so 'take all you want' from the area. No need to bring firewood. Cell service was only 1-2 bars LTE with AT&T but able to stream with hotspot to the SmartTV with only 1 bar so not bad."
