Camping options near Johnsonville, Illinois include a mix of state recreation areas and Corps of Engineers campgrounds along Rend Lake and other waterways. Located in southern Illinois at approximately 450 feet elevation, the area features gently rolling terrain with oak-hickory forests and agricultural surroundings. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F while summer months average 70-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area offers easy shoreline access for anglers. "Clean campground right on the lake," notes Elmer L., highlighting the fishing opportunities directly from camp.
Kayaking and water exploration: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area provides diverse paddling options on its small lake. "Main trail was nice but could be better marked. Lost our way a few times but still a good hike. Definitely want to go back when the restaurant is open (mid-May I believe)," shares Tracie E. about the multi-activity options.
Wildlife viewing: The abundance of wildlife makes Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground notable for nature enthusiasts. "Abundant Wildlife. Reservations made through Reserve America, this allowed us to have this part of the park almost to ourselves. We had 3 of the sites closest to the lake with only electric," reports Tina J.
Hiking through wooded areas: Several campgrounds offer forest trails through oak-hickory woodlands. "Great walking woods. but the restaurant is awesome. plenty of fish in the lake," mentions Brittany E. about Red Hills Lake State Park's recreational balance.
What campers like
Spacious, well-separated sites: Many campgrounds feature generous spacing between sites. "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one. Shower house is alright," notes Jennifer G. about Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area.
Sunsets over water: Gun Creek campground receives consistent praise for its sunset views. "Beautiful Sunsets over the Lake. What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," reports Jeff F.
Clean facilities: South Sandusky Campground maintains high standards for bathrooms and shower houses. "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous. they have quiet hours from 10-6 and the bathrooms and showers are always really clean," explains Gina J.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, several parks offer basic sites. "It's a really nice park with great trails just wish the primitive camping would have been open I'm sure $20 for a rv site is a good price but it's a little high for a tent camper like me," notes Frank S. about Red Hills State Park.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Using your GPS of choice, you can reach this campground off I-57 via Benton or the IL-154/Sesser exit. Note that the loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad," advises MickandKarla W. about South Sandusky.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "The stay was pleasant and the lake was very nice but the reservation system and finding a spot was overly complicated for a first timer. Basically people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave," explains Blake M. about Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park.
Equestrian limitations: While horse campgrounds near Johnsonville, Illinois are limited, some parks permit day use of horse trails. Riders should contact individual parks for current policies since dedicated horse camping facilities are minimal in this region.
Seasonal variations: Harmonie State Park Campground operates year-round but with varying amenities. "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," notes Olivia S. about seasonal facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities. "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade. The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. Marina and beach are close," reports Heather S. about Dam West Spillway.
Halloween events: Several parks host special fall activities. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween. We missed reserving the weekend they have the campground trick or treating, which was the weekend before, but this was just as fun. They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot," shares Nichole M. about Harmonie State Park's seasonal events.
Swimming options: Dam West Spillway provides water recreation for children. "Had a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice and it was so clean and the area was lovely. There were bathrooms with clean toilets locks and showers," reports Sarah J.
Cell service considerations: Some campgrounds have limited connectivity. "there is very little cell service so it is a great place to be unplugged and enjoy time with friends and family!" notes Lori W. about Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, which helps families disconnect.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service is standard at most campgrounds, but water and sewer availability varies. "Gun Creek 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," explains Dave S.
Size restrictions: While many campgrounds accommodate larger RVs, site selection matters. "Overall a great stay, very busy as it was full the entire time we were there while the state park down the road was empty. Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline," advises Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations even when full hookups aren't available. "It clearly states electric only. Which was no problem. They had a water hookup that you could pull up to for more water if needed. Dump station right outside the campground," explains Jonathon B. about his experience at Sam Dale Lake.
