Camping sites near Salem, Illinois cluster around three major bodies of water: Carlyle Lake, Rend Lake, and Forbes Lake. These water-based destinations sit in a region with elevations typically between 450-550 feet above sea level and experience warm summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F from June through August. Several campgrounds operate on a seasonal schedule from April through October, with a few offering year-round accessibility during milder winter months when nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 20°F.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area features a dedicated swimming area, though maintenance varies based on state funding. "There's a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," reports a visitor to Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Fishing access: Multiple designated fishing areas exist around Carlyle Lake, particularly at the spillway locations. "Depending on what site you stay in you will have an amazing view of the lake. With several picnic areas and the marina close. I have enjoyed camping and fishing at this campground," notes a camper at Boulder Recreation Area.
Hiking options: Several campgrounds connect to trail systems with varying difficulty levels. At Stephen A. Forbes State Park, one camper shared: "Main trail was nice but could be better marked. Lost our way a few times but still a good hike. Definitely want to go back when the restaurant is open (mid-May I believe)."
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites at Dam West Campground offer direct lake access or views. "We camped right on the lake with a great view. This site and the site next to it are the best sites in the campground with a pull through layout for a great setup for a lake view from the side of your camper," explains one visitor.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds feature larger-than-average sites with good separation. At Coles Creek Recreation Area, a camper noted: "Large waterfront campsites, full hookup loop, and 4 other large loops that have electric."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives consistent positive mentions. "Bathroom was the cleanest I have seen at a campsite. The sites are close as it is a small campground. But it was easy as people were respectful of each others spaces and it was quiet," reported a camper at Okaw Valley Kampground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak season, especially weekends, advance reservations become essential. "There is a reservable section and an extensive first come, first serve section. There are usually always spaces available. Sites are pretty level, are gravel, wooded, and spacious," explains a visitor to Eldon Hazlet.
Flooding concerns: Several campgrounds experience periodic closures due to high water. "This park offers playground areas and more. Cabins, campsites with power or no power the choice is yours. This is one State Park I enjoy visiting. However there are times this park cannot be accessed because of flooding," notes a visitor to Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area.
Varying cell service: Connectivity ranges from adequate to poor depending on location. "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," shared a Stephen A. Forbes visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months. Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area," noted a camper at Eldon Hazlet.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide structured activities for children. A visitor to Dam West Spillway mentioned: "It has activities for children on the weekends. The campsites have sewer and water on some sites, as well as other sites with electricity available."
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds feature swimming beaches within walking distance. "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade. The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. Marina and beach are close, and most of the drive up sites are concrete or at least rocked," notes another Dam West visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Several campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring adjustment. At Stephen A. Forbes State Park, one RVer mentioned: "We were here 1st week of April. Still rather cool weather but had a great time. There are 3 loops only one of which is reservable & we were at the rear of that loop."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience seasonal water challenges. "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. I filled my trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids," reported a visitor to Eldon Hazlet.
Electrical hookup options: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability. At Archway RV Park, a camper noted: "Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter. Overall very nice campground, well maintained."
