Camping sites near Enfield, Illinois range from lake-adjacent facilities to forest-based camping within the Shawnee National Forest. The area features a rolling terrain with elevations varying between 380-600 feet above sea level, experiencing humid subtropical climate patterns with summer highs typically reaching 90°F. Winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing, with the primary camping season running April through November when most facilities maintain full services.
What to Do
Swimming access: Pounds Hollow Recreation Area offers a beach area for swimming during warmer months. "Loved the place. The rustic sites are well spread out so they feel very private... There is a 2 mile loop road that goes around the whole campground and down to a beach access point for a gorgeous lake," notes Charles A.
Fishing opportunities: At Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area, anglers can access the lake directly from some sites. "Great fishing, 15hp motors allowed on the lake. Lake side camping spots available," explains Rc C., highlighting the accessibility for fishing enthusiasts.
Hiking trails: Explore the distinctive geology at Pharaoh Campground with its proximity to rock formations. "Headed here after garden of the gods was full. This place is very close to where you need to be... Very basic campsite for drive up... Great places around to hike," reports Brennan M.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Pine Ridge gets high marks for its site separation. "The sites are well maintained and the area is BEAUTIFUL... The sites are fairly well spaced, though not private. Area is split with power and no power," Brian E. explains.
Value for money: Budget-conscious campers appreciate affordability at certain locations. "And it was only $10 a night!!!" exclaims Rick C. about Pine Ridge, adding "The left loop has power 50/30/20 amp hook ups but no water or sewer on the campsite."
Lakefront access: Gun Creek provides highly-rated water access. "Great rates and even better campsites. We got there late and had no problems finding a great campsite right next to the lake," reports Jonathan W., highlighting the campground's lake proximity.
What You Should Know
Seasonal maintenance: Be aware of potential maintenance activities. "The website mentioned 'some' construction. But we could not access the lake at all anywhere. Also we were awakened by the Dept of Corrections with their work program for inmates. They arrived clearing all around our site very early in the am!!!" warns Jennifer D. about Rend Lake Gun Creek Campground.
Terrain variation: Site topography varies considerably across the region. "Sites have a fairly good slope to them," notes Jeff F. about South Marcum. Similarly, at Gun Creek, "some spots do have a fairly steep slope to them," which may require additional leveling equipment.
Water access: South Marcum Campground requires planning for water needs. "Campsites are electric only, so you need to fill your water tank before parking," advises Maggie C., a practical consideration for campers expecting hookups.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Select sites with recreational facilities. "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer. There are 3 playgrounds throughout the campground," notes Olivia S. about Harmonie State Park, just across the Indiana border.
Swimming options: Harmonie State Park Campground offers structured water activities. "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," explains Olivia S., providing details on family-friendly water facilities.
Holiday activities: Some campgrounds host special events for children. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween... They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating," shares Nichole M. about Harmonie State Park.
Tips from RVers
Pad length: Check site dimensions before booking. "Gun Creek Campground 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," advises Dave S. about the varying options.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "Nice little campground on Rend Lake. Sites are spread out with long concrete pads. There is a bit of a slope to the pads so you will need to level," cautions Maggie C. about Gun Creek Campground.
Hookup availability: Grayville KOA offers full-service sites. "It is a fairly new KOA with so many enjoyable amenities, family fun, food, ice cream, mini golf, full hookups and shady spots if you ask for one," explains Jason L., detailing the comprehensive RV services available.
