The Centralia area offers tent camping and upscale glamping experiences on the shores of multiple lakes within a 40-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping brings milder 60-75°F days. Winter camping is available at select locations, though nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Swimming beaches: Coles Creek Recreation Area offers a dedicated beach for campers. "There is a beach for campers to use, and a really nice playground. Their bathrooms and showerhouse were impeccably clean, and many sites are right next to the lake," reports Chelsea D.
Lake activities: Boat rentals and fishing opportunities abound at most lakeside campgrounds. At Gun Creek, campers enjoy direct water access. "Site 30, located directly on the water in the Nighthawk campground... is shaded and fairly level with a nice lake view and direct access," notes Susan L.
Biking trails: Paved pathways connect many campgrounds to beaches and recreation areas. "Paved bike trails run throughout the area," shares MickandKarla W. about South Sandusky Campground. Most trails are flat with minimal elevation change, making them suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds support abundant wildlife. At South Marcum Campground, campers regularly spot "Lots of deer and turkey!" according to Garrett F. Early morning and dusk provide the best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping spots. At Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one," notes Jennifer G. This provides a less crowded experience than some other Illinois camping areas.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bathrooms and showerhouse were impeccably clean," says Chelsea D. about Coles Creek Recreation Area, while another camper noted the "Cleanest bathrooms ever and heated and air conditioned" at COE Lake Carlyle McNair Campground.
Lakefront views: Waterfront glamping close to Centralia, Illinois often comes with prime positioning. "The view in the tent area of covey point is breathtaking. The campground is clean, quiet, and peaceful," writes Hollie C. about South Marcum Campground.
Accessibility to supplies: Many camping areas are within reasonable distance to towns with necessities. "We were within a few minutes drive of the main lake beach and facilities that include a restaurant and visitors center. A 7 minute drive gets you into the town of Carlyle which has all the necessities- food, gas and Walmart," reports Julie M.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds accept both advance reservations and walk-ins, though holiday weekends fill quickly. "Get there at least a week in advance for the halloween festivities- it fills up!" advises Aimee T. about Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Water quality issues: Some locations have reported inconsistent water quality. "The potable water supply. 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. about Illini Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Particularly for RVs, some sites require significant leveling. "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.
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds operate with reduced services in winter. "The Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section," notes MickandKarla W. about South Sandusky Campground, but these premium sites are typically only available from March through November.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Special seasonal activities are popular for family camping. "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. The campground also provides pumpkin painting contests and other fun activities," explains Aimee T. about Illini Campground.
Kid-friendly recreation: Most campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "There is a camp store, firewood available, and even a pool! The trails around are nice and our family had fun hiking," reports Chelsea D., while another camper mentioned the "nice large zero entry pool for a $5 fee on weekends" at Illini Campground.
Family-oriented atmosphere: The social environment at many campgrounds encourages kid interactions. "Nice level sites next to the lake. Reminds me of when I was a kid and there were camp clubs. You came with your parents and didn't see them again until night time. We swam rode bikes and just played," reminisces StaceeQ Q. about camping at Okaw Valley Kampground.
Cabin glamping options: For families seeking glamping near Centralia without tent setup, Archway RV Park offers alternatives. "There are some cute vintage campers and tiny cottages for rent as well," notes Debra R., providing options for families wanting comfort without bringing equipment.
Tips from RVers
Senior pass discounts: Corps of Engineers campgrounds accept America the Beautiful passes for significant savings. "This is a COE campground and takes our senior pass," mentions Rhonda B. about Coles Creek Recreation Area, reducing nightly rates by 50% for pass holders.
Power considerations: Bring adapters for varying electrical hookups. "Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter," advises James N. about Archway RV Park.
Dump station availability: Limited facilities can mean morning backups. "The only thing I would change is the ONE dump station for this massive campground," notes Amurican L. about Coles Creek, suggesting early or late departure to avoid lines.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites before booking. "Our site was narrow and tighter than we prefer, but the location and view made up for that! Most of the sites in the camper are larger and more open," shares Brooke C., highlighting the trade-offs between space and location when selecting a campsite.
