Cabin camping near Mount Vernon, Illinois centers around Rend Lake, a 19,000-acre reservoir with 162 miles of shoreline. The region sits at approximately 405 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows around 25-30°F. Spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F, though spring often brings increased rainfall to the area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access prime fishing spots at Gun Creek, where anglers target bass and catfish. "It was a good view, also pretty RV heavy, but tent friendly. Grassy area, fire pit, stone table," notes one camper about the lakeside setting.
Beach access: Enjoy swimming at North Marcum Day Use Area where the beach facilities remain well-maintained. "This is an beautiful little beach on Rend lake. The lake is an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bord watchers to go! The beach is also tidy and free of alot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in," reports a visitor.
Biking trails: Explore the network of trails near Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground that connect various areas around Rend Lake. A camper mentions, "Easy to get around and plenty of facilities with bath houses and bathrooms as well as playgrounds for the kids and hiking and biking trails."
Wildlife viewing: Observe local fauna throughout the various campgrounds, particularly at dusk and dawn. "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day," one visitor noted about their experience.
What campers like
Spacious sites: South Marcum Campground provides generous camping areas that don't feel crowded. "The campground gives campers plenty of room to spread out, lots of open space for the kids to play, and not crowded when we stopped by late July," shares a reviewer.
Waterfront views: Many sites offer direct lake access, particularly prized by visitors. "We were in site 30, located directly on the water in the Nighthawk campground. The site is shaded and fairly level with a nice lake view and direct access," reports one camper.
Tree coverage: Whittington Woods Campground provides abundant shade, an important feature during hot summer months. "Beautiful campground with mature trees providing lots of shade on the 100F weekend we were there. Gravel sites, level. A lot of common ground, shaded, picnic shelters," comments a visitor.
Cabin rental variety: Cabin options range from rustic to modern across the area. "There are some cute vintage campers and tiny cottages for rent as well," mentions a camper about Archway RV Park, while another visitor notes the presence of cabins within different campground loops at Rend Lake.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking. At Washington County State Recreation Area, "We stayed here one night on our road trip across the country. Note: no cards accepted. We had to run back to the town of Nashville to get some cash from the ATM."
Site levelness: Many lakeside sites have notable slopes that may require additional leveling equipment. "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them," notes a Gun Creek visitor.
Seasonal maintenance: Be aware of potential construction or maintenance activities during shoulder seasons. "Pulled in here on our way out west for a night. The website mentioned 'some' construction. But we could not access the lake at all anywhere," reports a camper about spring conditions.
Noise considerations: Interstate proximity affects certain campgrounds. Benton KOA campers mention, "I-57 provides plenty of traffic noise and when you can't hear that, the 3 trains between 1am and 6am blowing their whistle for what seems like 2 miles should keep you wide eyed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Archway RV Park provides dedicated play areas for children. "There is a nice playground and dog park as well as a pond at the location. Great place to stop traveling through or for a weekend," states a visitor.
Swimming beaches: Multiple lake access points with swimming areas accommodate families with various age groups. "Large spacious sites, close to swimming beaches, although not walking distance. Tree covered and offer some privacy. Great place to meet with family and friends," shares a Rend Lake camper.
Cabin convenience: Family cabins provide easier setups for those with young children. "While we are new to camping, we know about thoughtful and caring hosts. That's how it feels at Archway -- clean, cute, super convenient. The outside area is made for families to play and relax and enjoy time together, and the indoor spaces are cozy."
Wildlife education opportunities: Make time for nature observation with children. "We listened to Whip-poor-will calls around the campfire," mentions a Washington County State Recreation Area visitor, highlighting the natural sounds that enhance the experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "Sites are nice, although all sites face each other meaning you will be 5-10 feet from your neighbors if you are sitting out front. Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter," advises an Archway RV Park guest.
Lake access with larger rigs: Choose campgrounds with proper boat trailer accommodation if bringing watercraft. "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," suggests a Gun Creek camper.
Water hookup availability: Plan for water needs since not all sites include direct connections. "Sites have 30 & 50 amp Electric hookups. There is a dump station, hot showers, flush toilets, and drinking water," notes a visitor about South Marcum Campground, indicating the need to fill tanks before parking.
