Cabin accommodations around Rend Lake span several campgrounds within the Corps of Engineers and Illinois state park systems. Located in southern Illinois at approximately 405 feet above sea level, Rend Lake covers 18,900 acres with 162 miles of shoreline. The lake experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight freezes are common from November through March.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek offers excellent fishing access with many waterfront sites. "Great rates and even better campsites. We got there late and had no problems finding a great campsite right next to the lake," notes Jonathan W. who visited during the summer months.
Hiking trails: Several paths connect the campgrounds around the lake. The 14-mile Rend Lake Bike Trail runs alongside parts of the shoreline. At Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, visitors find additional nature trails within a short drive. "Lots of trails (within 10-30 minute drive). Fishing was good (especially catfish and crappie)," reports Tracie E., who stayed in early April.
Wildlife viewing: The lake area attracts numerous bird species and other wildlife. "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day," shares Lucas T. about Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park. Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What Campers Like
Waterfront access: Many cabin renters appreciate direct lake access. At South Marcum Campground, site 56 receives particular praise: "If I was in any other spot this would probably be a 4/5, but spot 56 has a crazy lake view and is on the tip of an outlook with pretty nice privacy!" according to Eli R.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite popularity during summer months, several cabin areas maintain a peaceful setting. "The view in the tent area of covey point is breathtaking. The campground is clean, quiet, and peaceful," reports Hollie C. about South Marcum Campground in October.
Spacious sites: Many cabin and camping areas provide ample room between units. "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," notes CHris B., who stayed at South Marcum.
What You Should Know
Reservation systems vary: Some cabin areas require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, "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... people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave," explains Blake M.
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites around the lake have uneven terrain. "Spots are level and nice. CHECK carefully," advises Kennon H. about Wayne Fitzgerrell, while another camper noted that "lots of sites are over 4 inch incline" at Gun Creek.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly around the lake. Some cabin areas have better coverage than others, with WiFi only available at private campgrounds like Whittington Woods and Benton KOA.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Arrowhead Lake Campground offers family-friendly facilities including a "large childrens playground" according to Lori W., who found the campground "very nice, quiet, clean" during their stay.
Swimming areas: Beach access points provide safe swimming zones around the lake. "This is an beautiful little beach on Rend lake. The lake is an important bird habitat making it a great place for my fellow bird watchers to go! The beach is also tidy and free of alot of trash, perfect for the youngsters to play in," shares Jill R. about North Marcum Day Use Area.
Wildlife encounters: Kids enjoy spotting local animals, but prepare for unexpected visitors. "Because of the lake there are tons of mosquitos, plan accordingly! There was also a little skunk walking around this morning," warns Brennan M. at Gun Creek.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Cabins and RV sites offer different utility connections. At Whittington Woods Campground, "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 James N.
Seasonal accessibility: While some cabin facilities operate year-round, others close during winter months. Gun Creek operates from "March 14 to November 30" while South Marcum operates from "March 28 to November 2," requiring winter visitors to use year-round facilities.
Road noise considerations: Some cabins experience highway sounds. "South Marcum Campground is a Corp of Engineers campground just of I-57 in southern Illinois with over 100 reservable campsites," notes Joel R., who appreciates the convenience while acknowledging the occasional traffic noise.
