Cabin rental options around Centralia, Illinois provide varied experiences for visitors seeking lakeside or wooded accommodations. Facilities typically operate seasonally, with many closing during winter months. Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during summer when facilities like Dam West Campground operate from March through October. While several locations feature basic cabins, amenities vary significantly between primitive options without plumbing and more developed units with electric hookups.
What to do
Swimming access: Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area features a zero-entry pool for $5 on weekends. "There is a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," notes Allen S. The campground has extensive outdoor amenities for summer visitors.
Fishing opportunities: Rend Lake offers productive fishing near cabin accommodations. "The fishing is really good here," mentions Jim L. about Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, where cabins provide convenient access to the water. Multiple fishing piers and boat launch facilities make it easy to access the lake.
Hiking trails: Miles of paths surround many cabin rental locations. "There's miles and miles of walking and biking trails!" shares Mimi about the COE Lake Carlyle McNair Campground. The Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area features trails connecting the campground to the marina, though some visitors note they "could be better marked."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Dam West Campground offers well-maintained cabin areas with adequate space between units. "The sites are beautiful and well maintained! Great place to bike, hike, and swim at the beach," writes Patti P. The cabins are positioned to maximize privacy while maintaining access to facilities.
Proximity to town: Cabin renters appreciate access to nearby services. "Walmart is just 5-10min away if needed as well as restaurants, gas station, and other amenities in Carlyle nearby," mentions Brooke C. This convenience allows cabin guests to easily restock supplies during extended stays.
Cleanliness of facilities: Gun Creek maintains well-kept grounds and cabins. "Gun Creek is a great 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 reviewer b K. The maintenance standards at many facilities make cabin stays more comfortable.
What you should know
Cabin availability: Some locations have limited cabin inventory. At Okaw Valley Kampground, "there are 2 cabins available" according to visitors. Reservations should be made well in advance during peak season between May and September.
Seasonal operations: Many cabins close during winter months. "The campground is not open year-round," notes Laureen M. about some facilities. Dam West Campground operates from March 30 to October 30, typical of many locations in the region.
Water quality concerns: Testing water sources before use is recommended. "I filled by trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids," reports Allen S. Bringing bottled water for drinking and cooking is advisable at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Fall visitors with children should consider timing their stay around special events. "They have a huge Halloween event every year where people decorate their sites (pretty extensively) and there's a haunted house, then kids trick or treat from site to site," shares Aimee T. about Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature play areas for children. "The campground has playground areas and more," reports Jake L. Some facilities have multiple play structures throughout the grounds, giving children different options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe native animals from cabin porches. "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day," writes Lucas T. Early mornings and evenings typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin locations also accommodate RVs but require preparation. "CHECK carefully" for level sites, warns Kennon H. about Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park. "Many sites are very off level" and may require adjustment for comfortable stays.
Dump station access: Visitors transitioning between cabin and RV stays should note facility locations. "Dump station was just fine," reports Matt M. about Washington County State Recreation Area, which offers both cabin and RV accommodations with varying hookup options.
Electric limitations: Check power capabilities before booking. "Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter," advises James N. This consideration affects both cabin and RV stays when planning electrical needs.
