The Enfield, Illinois area sits at an elevation of approximately 400 feet within the Wabash River basin of southern Illinois. This region features a mix of rolling hills, agricultural lands, and forested areas around Rend Lake, which spans over 18,900 acres. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 80s with moderate humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Rend Lake offers extensive fishing opportunities with multiple shore access points. "Rend Lake is one of our favorite lakes at which to camp. All of the COE engineer campgrounds are well maintained and have waterfront sites!" according to reviewer b K.
Swimming beaches for cooling off: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas during summer months. At South Sandusky Campground, one camper noted, "It's also just a short drive from the South Sandusky swimming beach. It's sometimes pretty rocky in the water so we usually wear water shoes."
Hiking and biking trails: The region features multiple trail systems connecting campgrounds. According to Dave C. at Harmonie State Park, "There are paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails," making it suitable for riders of various skill levels.
Paddling and kayaking: The lake waters provide calm paddling conditions most mornings. Susan L. at Gun Creek mentioned, "I like to camp at lakes because I enjoy kayaking and this lake would allow for all kinds of water activities which is a plus."
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Many campgrounds feature tree cover and adequate spacing. At Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, Matthew B. noted that "Sites are well spaced apart," providing privacy between camping units.
Sunset lake views: Waterfront sites offer excellent viewing opportunities. One Gun Creek camper, Jeff F., commented, "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here," mentioning the "Beautiful Sunsets over the Lake."
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing. At Wayne Fitzgerrell, Tina J. highlighted the "Abundant Wildlife" and mentioned that they "had 3 of the sites closest to the lake with only electric."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. Mary F. described South Sandusky Day Use as "Well kept, clean sites. Friendly and helpful gate staff. Large sites."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging site layouts. At Gun Creek, one reviewer advised to "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."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds use first-come systems while others require advance booking. Blake M. noted at Wayne Fitzgerrell that "people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave. They have to pay for the spot by 8pm."
Weekend planning important: Holiday weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. Nichole M. wrote about Harmonie State Park's Halloween weekend, "Apparently that weekend has to be reserved the day reservations open for it."
Bring cash for walk-up sites: Credit cards aren't accepted at all locations. Susan L. observed at Gun Creek, "A couple was turned away and told to get cash because they don't take credit cards or checks."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area offers play facilities within the campground. Jake L. mentioned the park "offers a playground, bathhouse, hiking trails, and a small swimming area."
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special seasonal events. Keith M. shared that Harmonie State Park is "One of our favorite places to camp. Great spots and very well maintained. They have a fun fall festival around halloween."
Swimming options: Pools and beaches provide water recreation. Olivia S. described Harmonie State Park as having an "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions."
Biking opportunities: Multiple campgrounds feature paved paths for safe riding. Dave C. noted, "This campground is very well kept. There are paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails."
Tips from RVers
Limited equestrian options: While the area lacks dedicated horse corrals, High Knob Campgrounds provides facilities for equestrian campers. Alicia B. noted it "definitely caters to equestrians... the stalls are nice and safe. The trails are great maps available some trails need marked a bit better."
RV site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. Never Sitting S. at Gun Creek mentioned, "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. Tracie E. reported at Stephen A. Forbes that "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."
Full hookup availability: Select sites offer complete services. MickandKarla W. noted that at South Sandusky, "the Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section" while most sites have water and electric only.
