Camping options near Mount Vernon, Illinois span a 40-mile radius with several established campgrounds situated along Rend Lake and nearby state recreation areas. The region features predominantly wooded sites with access to water activities, though terrain can be challenging with some campgrounds reporting sloped sites that require leveling equipment. Fall temperatures typically range from 45-70°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities with minimal crowds.
What to do
Fishing on Rend Lake: Gun Creek Campground provides excellent lake access with "large, well thought out campground" features that support fishing activities. One camper notes, "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."
Kayaking and water exploration: Dam West Spillway offers direct lake access for water activities. A camper describes, "I 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." Another mentions "The campground is close to a wal mart and a Mexican restaurant."
Hiking and wildlife observation: Pyramid State Recreation Area features multiple trail systems for hikers seeking nature experiences. A visitor shares, "We spent about 4 hours just taking every little trail we could and couldn't have been happier." The recreation area also offers "great access to the lakes for canoe & kayak" according to another reviewer.
What campers like
Lake views and sunsets: Campers consistently praise the scenery at South Sandusky Campground, with one reviewer noting "many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous." Another adds, "There is a dump station, flush toilets, showers, a sand beach, boat ramp, 2 picnic shelters, a paved bike trail, and playgrounds."
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept shower houses and bathrooms. At Dam West Spillway, a visitor reports, "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there."
Spacious campsites: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground offers generously sized sites. A camper shares, "We went on Labor Day weekend and there were a number of sites open. The sites have a lot of room to enjoy a relaxing weekend or set up yard games."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds use online reservation systems while others operate on first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Wayne Fitzgerrell notes, "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."
Site leveling may be required: Multiple campgrounds have uneven sites. One camper at Wayne Fitzgerrell warns, "Many sites are very off level. CHECK carefully." Another at Gun Creek advises, "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."
Limited cell service in some areas: Connection can be spotty at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to South Sandusky Campground mentions, "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground."
Insect preparation: Mosquitos can be problematic near the water. One camper at Gun Creek advises, "Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly! There was also a little skunk walking around this morning."
Bathroom proximity: When camping with children, consider bathroom locations. A Gun Creek visitor notes, "The facilities are outdated and don't feel super clean. Easy to reserve and convenient."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: RV campers have multiple utility connection choices. A Gun Creek visitor explains, "Offers full hookups, partial or none. Convenient to I64. Only stayed 1 nite, but would definitely come back."
Dump station locations: Check campground maps for sanitation stations before arrival. A camper at Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area shares, "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."
Space between sites: Privacy varies between campgrounds. A visitor to Dam West Spillway observes, "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade. Fire rings/grates are provided and next to the picnic table."
