Rend Lake spans 18,900 acres with 162 miles of shoreline in southern Illinois. The lake features multiple camping options beyond the Corps of Engineers facilities, with elevations ranging from 405 to 420 feet above sea level. Seasonal camping typically runs March through November, though some private campgrounds remain open year-round for winter travelers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "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. about Gun Creek.
Walking trails: Multiple campgrounds connect to paved paths around the lake. At Arrowhead Lake Campground, visitors appreciate "a beautiful walking trail, the camp host was nice. The restrooms and showers were super clean," according to Tonyi P.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for birdwatching opportunities. "Bring binoculars for egrets and herons on the lake," recommends Mandi G. about North Sandusky Campground, where campers also report "deer playing on an adjacent site to us."
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites offer direct water access with unobstructed views. "Most of the sites are wooded with space between them, and many have lake views," shares Joel R. about South Sandusky Campground.
Family amenities: Campgrounds offer playgrounds and recreational facilities for children. At Arrowhead Lake Campground, one visitor mentions, "Lake side sites, wooded sites and regular sites in the middle. Water, 30 and 50 amp, shower house, small laundry facility. Wifi fiber being installed, boat ramp, primitive cabin, tent camping, large childrens playground."
Level sites: Many campsites have paved pads though some require leveling. "Large sites, well maintained, good cell service," reports Jason A. about North Sandusky Campground, adding "The sites all seem to be fairly well maintained and roomy."
What you should know
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have elevation changes that may affect setup. "The campground has a great view of the lake. It's well-kept and the site has nice spacing in between. Most sites are level but ours (#90) had a drop off between the drive way and the picnic table/fire ring. We had to use blocks so our camper stairs would reach the ground," reports Phil W. about North Sandusky.
Interstate noise: RV parks near Rend Lake vary in noise levels based on proximity to highways. At Benton KOA, campers experience different sections: "There is another portion of this campground across the road you come in on. I do have to say it is a totally different area. Quiet newer, some money spent on that side. A pond nice sites even pull through and tent sites."
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds operate differently for check-in. At Archway RV Park, a reviewer noted, "I called a day in advance and was able to schedule a reservation, the lady on the phone was very nice. Upon arrival I was greeted nicely and checked in quickly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several rv parks at Rend Lake offer dedicated play areas. "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," shares James N. about Archway RV Park.
Swimming areas: Beach access varies by location around the lake. At South Sandusky, Gina J. reports, "It's also just a short drive from the South Sandusky swimming beach. It's sometimes pretty rocky in the water so we usually wear water shoes."
Outdoor activities: COE Rend Lake North Sandusky Recreation Area provides multiple recreation options. "There is a boat dock, boat ramp, playground, and disk golf course," mentions Joel R., making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Tips from RVers
Electric connections: Check amperage requirements before arrival. Regarding Marion Campground & RV Park, Carla B. shares, "This campground is laid out very well. The showers/bathrooms are perfectly designed down to a shelf in the shower."
Site layout: Many RV parks feature different configurations. When staying at Marion Campground & RV Park, Robert T. appreciates the "very handy to interstate, well maintained, dry pads, easy connections."
Utility arrangements: Electric and water hookup locations vary between sites. At Gun Creek Campground, a visitor reports, "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."
