Looking for the best campgrounds near Mount Vernon, IL? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Mount Vernon, IL. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Gun Creek sits along the Eastern banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Rend Lake Golf Complex, which includes a 27-hole golf course, restuarant, and lodge.
$30 / night
Open year-round, Archway RV Park is easy to get to from the Interstate. Level, full-hookup pull through sites that are big-rig friendly. We love pets. You’ll love that we sell propane. Visit our Amenities page to see photos of our facility. We also have cabins, super fun glamper pods and on-site rental campers. Visit our Lodging page to learn more.
Come on in, you’re gonna love it.
$60 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change througout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
South Sandusky Campground is situated around Sandusky cove on Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With nicely spaced campsites and plenty of activities easily accessible from the campground, South Sandusky is an excellent destination for camping at Rend Lake. Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.
South Sandusky Beach Rend Lake Visitors Center Rend Lake Project Office
$18 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossu, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
South Marcum Campground sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With plenty of unobstructed views of the water, campers are able to take in scenic sunsets as well as enjoy activities such as bank fishing, right from the campground.
Rend Lake Dam
$26 / night
Welcome to Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, nestled near Whittington, IL. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. The campground is right by Rend Lake, making it a prime location for fishing, boating, and just soaking in some beautiful lake views.
The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. It's got all the essentials: electric hookups, drinking water, and showers. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. One thing to note, though, is that there are no water hookups, so plan accordingly.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are spacious and well-shaded, providing a nice bit of privacy. The campground is also big-rig friendly, which is a plus if you're rolling in with a larger RV. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
For those who like to stay active, there's plenty to do. The park offers hiking and biking trails, and there's even a playground for the kids. If you're into wildlife, you're in for a treat. Deer sightings are pretty common, and the area is teeming with other wildlife.
A few tips from past campers: the reservation system can be a bit tricky, especially during peak times like the week before Memorial Day. It's a good idea to arrive early to snag a good spot. Also, while the bathrooms are functional, they can get a bit buggy and dirty, so pack some extra cleaning supplies if that's a concern for you.
Overall, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground is a fantastic spot to unwind, enjoy nature, and maybe catch a fish or two. Whether you're here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, you're bound to have a memorable time.
We also have a basketball court, propane, dump station and our laundry room has brand new machines. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the park. We have added a new activity/meeting room with central ac/heat, pictures are located on our Facebook page.
Laundry
Pull-Thru Sites
30 & 50 Amp Service
Big Rig Friendly
Pet Friendly
Playground
Ice
Clean Restrooms/Hot Showers
Activity/Meeting Room
Dump Station
Pool
Grocery Store
Basketball
Pavilion
Welcome to Illini Campground at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, nestled near Carlyle, Illinois. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations, so there's something for everyone.
One of the standout features here is the spaciousness of the sites. Visitors often rave about the large, well-maintained sites shaded by old-growth trees. It's a perfect setup whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your big rig. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
The campground is equipped with electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations. Showers and toilets are available, though some campers have noted they didn't use the showers during their stay. Firewood is available on-site, and campfires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
For those interested in activities, the campground doesn't disappoint. There's a swimming pool open during the summer months, multiple playgrounds, a basketball court, and sand volleyball. If you're into water sports, the nearby lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and even jet skiing. Boat ramps are free to use if you have a campsite, which is a nice perk.
The nearby town of Carlyle has all the essentials, including a Walmart and several dining options. A highly recommended Mexican restaurant is a local favorite.
Overall, Illini Campground is a fantastic spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to enjoy nature with the convenience of modern amenities. The friendly hosts and beautiful surroundings make it a place you'll want to return to again and again.
$15 - $30 / night
Benton KOA, located near Benton, IL, is a convenient spot for campers looking for a mix of comfort and accessibility. This campground operates year-round and offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is its big rig-friendly setup, making it a breeze for those with larger RVs to find a suitable spot. The campground also provides essential amenities like electric and sewer hookups, drinking water, and showers. Pets are welcome, and there's a small camp store on-site for any last-minute needs.
Visitors have noted the campground's proximity to I-57, which makes it an easy stopover for travelers. However, this also means you might hear some traffic noise, especially if you're a light sleeper. On the plus side, the campground is well-maintained, with clean facilities and friendly staff.
For those who enjoy a bit of nature, there's a pond on the quieter side of the campground, which offers a more serene setting. It's a great spot for a longer stay if you prefer a peaceful environment. The campground also has a sanitary dump station and allows campfires, adding to the camping experience.
If you're passing through or planning a short stay, Benton KOA is a solid choice with its convenient location and range of amenities. Just be prepared for some noise if you're close to the freeway, and make sure to check out the quieter side of the campground for a more relaxing experience.
Washington County State Recreation Area, near Nashville, IL, is a gem tucked away among the cornfields. This place offers a peaceful retreat with three distinct campgrounds: Shady Rest, Lonely Oaks, and Little Bears. Shady Rest is perfect for RVs with its electric hookups, while Lonely Oaks and Little Bears cater to tent campers.
The campgrounds are well-spaced, providing a good mix of privacy and community. Shady Rest, in particular, has plenty of trees and shade, making it a comfortable spot even on warmer days. The bathhouse is clean, and while the showers might start off cold, they warm up after a bit. There are also plenty of pit toilets and trash cans scattered throughout the area.
One of the highlights here is the beautiful lake, which is great for fishing and boating. The lake is surrounded by wooded areas, offering a serene backdrop for your camping experience. There are also several hiking trails, including a large one that circles the lake and smaller ones that connect the different campgrounds.
Pets are welcome, and you can enjoy a campfire at your site. Just remember to bring cash, as cards aren't accepted, and you might need to make a quick trip to Nashville for supplies or an ATM.
Overall, Washington County State Recreation Area is a quiet, convenient spot for a night or a weekend getaway. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, you'll find a welcoming and relaxing environment here.
Coles Creek Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis and a few miles from the town of Carlyle, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Coles Creek Campground provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site, as well as a swimming beach and an amphitheater for educational programs. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
Camping No Show - Camping no-show customers who do not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by check out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit their reservation. If the no-show service fee is greater than the reservation amount, the customer will not be charged any additional service fees. Cancellations - A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$150 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Gun Creek sits along the Eastern banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Rend Lake Golf Complex, which includes a 27-hole golf course, restuarant, and lodge.
$30 / night
Open year-round, Archway RV Park is easy to get to from the Interstate. Level, full-hookup pull through sites that are big-rig friendly. We love pets. You’ll love that we sell propane. Visit our Amenities page to see photos of our facility. We also have cabins, super fun glamper pods and on-site rental campers. Visit our Lodging page to learn more.
Come on in, you’re gonna love it.
$60 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change througout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
South Sandusky Campground is situated around Sandusky cove on Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With nicely spaced campsites and plenty of activities easily accessible from the campground, South Sandusky is an excellent destination for camping at Rend Lake. Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.
South Sandusky Beach Rend Lake Visitors Center Rend Lake Project Office
$18 / night
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossu, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
South Marcum Campground sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With plenty of unobstructed views of the water, campers are able to take in scenic sunsets as well as enjoy activities such as bank fishing, right from the campground.
Rend Lake Dam
$26 / night
Welcome to Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, nestled near Whittington, IL. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. The campground is right by Rend Lake, making it a prime location for fishing, boating, and just soaking in some beautiful lake views.
The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. It's got all the essentials: electric hookups, drinking water, and showers. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. One thing to note, though, is that there are no water hookups, so plan accordingly.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are spacious and well-shaded, providing a nice bit of privacy. The campground is also big-rig friendly, which is a plus if you're rolling in with a larger RV. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
For those who like to stay active, there's plenty to do. The park offers hiking and biking trails, and there's even a playground for the kids. If you're into wildlife, you're in for a treat. Deer sightings are pretty common, and the area is teeming with other wildlife.
A few tips from past campers: the reservation system can be a bit tricky, especially during peak times like the week before Memorial Day. It's a good idea to arrive early to snag a good spot. Also, while the bathrooms are functional, they can get a bit buggy and dirty, so pack some extra cleaning supplies if that's a concern for you.
Overall, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground is a fantastic spot to unwind, enjoy nature, and maybe catch a fish or two. Whether you're here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, you're bound to have a memorable time.
We also have a basketball court, propane, dump station and our laundry room has brand new machines. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the park. We have added a new activity/meeting room with central ac/heat, pictures are located on our Facebook page.
Laundry
Pull-Thru Sites
30 & 50 Amp Service
Big Rig Friendly
Pet Friendly
Playground
Ice
Clean Restrooms/Hot Showers
Activity/Meeting Room
Dump Station
Pool
Grocery Store
Basketball
PavilionFrequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Mount Vernon, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mount Vernon, IL is Gun Creek with a 4.7-star rating from 19 reviews.
What parks are near Mount Vernon, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Mount Vernon, IL that allow camping, notably Rend Lake and Carlyle Lake.