Clinton Lake State Recreation Area spans over 9,300 acres with a 4,900-acre reservoir centrally located in DeWitt County, Illinois. The lake's unusual warmth comes from nearby Clinton Nuclear Power Plant discharge, creating comfortable swimming conditions even in cooler months. Glamping options in this area offer diverse experiences from lakeside canvas accommodations to climate-controlled cabin rentals.
What to do
Fishing access points: The shoreline at Friends Creek Campground provides multiple spots for anglers. "There is a little creek but this is NOT a water rec kind of campground. We love mushroom hunting while here," notes Brandi M.
Biking opportunities: Paved roads throughout Comlara County Park make for excellent cycling routes around Lake Evergreen. "Nice walk around paved campground road," mentions Jason W., while another camper adds, "There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow."
Wildlife photography: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing at campgrounds surrounding Clinton Lake. "There are lots of deer and other animals to watch and watch out that they don't steal your food while you are sleeping. The wildlife is great for photography," explains Michael M. at Eagle Creek State Park.
What campers like
Off-season seclusion: Visiting in spring or fall provides quieter camping experiences. "Had practically the whole campground to ourselves. Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear," reports Matthew I. from Clinton Lake State Recreation Area.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the Clinton area feature well-spaced camping spots. "Our site was huge. Right by jones pond, but the fishing was not the best right by our site," says Sarah S. about her experience at Eagle Creek. Another camper notes, "Level sites, clean restrooms and showers and friendly staff."
Diverse camping options: Glamping in Clinton, Illinois ranges from basic to luxurious accommodations. "We enjoyed our stay at Hickory Point Campground Lot 23 at Sangchris Lake State Park. Sites are spacious and campground is quiet and leisurely during the week. Beautiful shoreline lots," shares Jason L.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Central Illinois experiences rapid weather changes, especially in spring and fall. "After a heavy rain, the low lying areas of the trail were pretty muddy so wear appropriate shoes," warns Nancy W. about trails at Carl Spindler Campground.
Site selection considerations: Location within campgrounds can significantly impact your experience. "The different loops have very different feels...some are very shaded in the trees, some more wide open with a prairie type view," explains Stacia R. about Clinton Lake Recreation Area.
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly, especially at D & W Lake RV Park during summer months. "I'm glad we made a reservation. We enjoyed our stay," mentions Ricky L., while others consistently rate this campground highly for its "beautiful lake view from our site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple recreation areas feature play equipment for children. "Campground is very well kept with well spaced sites and super clean bathhouses and pit toilets. The fire pits are well kept and the camp host was very kind! He came around with suckers for the kids," reports Sara W. from Friends Creek Campground.
Designated quiet areas: Some campground loops enforce stricter noise policies. "The loops that allow alcohol can get a bit rowdy with weekend partiers, but the alcohol restricted loops can get loud from all the families," advises Marisa A. about Clinton Lake.
Swimming considerations: Beach areas often have separate entry fees beyond camping costs. "Great campground! Has a really nice beach for swimming and picnics," Brandon E. shares about Clinton Lake, while another camper notes, "$2 dollar beach entry 10-7 pm."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites are more common than full hookups. "We have only stayed in the electric only sites as the full hookup sites are hard to come by," Tim F. explains about Clinton Lake State Recreation Area.
Off-season preparations: RVers should check which utilities remain active during shoulder seasons. "Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water options we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled," warns Matthew I.
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require significant effort to level larger rigs. "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade," reports Kathie M. from Comlara County Park, highlighting the trade-off between site size and level ground.
Scout
