Best Camping near Sesser, IL

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Sesser, IL has a lot to offer. Sesser is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Sesser, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Sesser, IL (96)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek

    1. Gun Creek

    20 Reviews
    66 Photos
    91 Saves
    Whittington, Illinois

    Overview

    Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.

    Recreation

    Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.

    Natural Features

    Gun Creek sits along the Eastern banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois.

    Nearby Attractions

    Rend Lake Golf Complex, which includes a 27-hole golf course, restuarant, and lodge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Sandusky Campground

    2. South Sandusky Campground

    18 Reviews
    52 Photos
    101 Saves
    Sesser, Illinois

    Overview

    Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change througout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern illinois.

    Recreation

    Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.

    Natural Features

    South Sandusky Campground is situated around Sandusky cove on Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With nicely spaced campsites and plenty of activities easily accessible from the campground, South Sandusky is an excellent destination for camping at Rend Lake. Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.

    Nearby Attractions

    South Sandusky Beach Rend Lake Visitors Center Rend Lake Project Office

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground

    3. South Marcum Campground

    15 Reviews
    31 Photos
    64 Saves
    Benton, Illinois

    Overview

    Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossu, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.

    Recreation

    Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.

    Natural Features

    South Marcum Campground sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With plenty of unobstructed views of the water, campers are able to take in scenic sunsets as well as enjoy activities such as bank fishing, right from the campground.

    Nearby Attractions

    Rend Lake Dam

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Archway RV Park

    5. Archway RV Park

    15 Reviews
    17 Photos
    42 Saves
    Mount Vernon, Illinois

    Open year-round, Archway RV Park is easy to get to from the Interstate. Level, full-hookup pull through sites that are big-rig friendly. We love pets. You’ll love that we sell propane. Visit our Amenities page to see photos of our facility. We also have cabins, super fun glamper pods and on-site rental campers. Visit our Lodging page to learn more.

    Come on in, you’re gonna love it.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whittington Woods Campground

    6. Whittington Woods Campground

    11 Reviews
    9 Photos
    27 Saves
    Whittington, Illinois

    We also have a basketball court, propane, dump station and our laundry room has brand new machines. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the park. We have added a new activity/meeting room with central ac/heat, pictures are located on our Facebook page.

    Laundry
    Pull-Thru Sites
    30 & 50 Amp Service
    Big Rig Friendly
    Pet Friendly
    Playground
    Ice
    Clean Restrooms/Hot Showers
    Activity/Meeting Room
    Dump Station
    Pool
    Grocery Store
    Basketball
    Pavilion
    
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA

    7. Benton KOA

    12 Reviews
    5 Photos
    8 Saves
    Benton, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington County State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground

    9. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    165 Photos
    139 Saves
    Makanda, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    10. Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    45 Photos
    61 Saves
    Bargerville, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $25 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 96 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Sesser

Recent Reviews in Sesser

593 Reviews of 96 Sesser Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Built on an Old Golf Course

    We’d seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground (CG) many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base and wanted to check this CG out. We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go. We checked in at the little office and were given the choice of pull through sites with FHUs 12 or 21. We chose site 21. The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice. The water pressure was good around 50 psi. Their WiFi was very good. There are mature trees here and there in the CG, so satellite should not be an issue. We got two bars on Verizon. Each of the bath houses have a washer and dryer. Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones even though there were plenty of sites open in the upper 26- 50 site area. If we come back, we’ll know where to ask for a site. They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing. There's no formal dog area, but there are paved trails around the large CG area, which made it nice to walk our dogs.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Gun Creek

    Beautiful Sunsets over the Lake

    What a beautiful campground, it’s our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them

  • Tabitha R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Creek
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Johnson Creek

    Nice!

    This campground provides large spots, drinking water, vault toliets, dumpsters, picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and contactless check in. I also appreciate the value of these sites. It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Decent overnight stop

    Hosts were friendly, but didn’t brief us on information such as where is the trash bin, what is the WiFi password. Restroom was old but relatively clean. There’s only one valve in the showers so all you get is lukewarm water. Not good on a cool or cold day. Some of the long term people have too many dogs, one had 6 little yippers, kind of annoying. And I’m not against dogs

  • Ben T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

    Wonderful campground

    Right next to a huge reserve for fishing and boating. Campsites are very spaced out. We had 30 amp electric but no water on the campsite. Wasn't a problem for us we just filled our water tank. Bathrooms and showers were very clean. Look forward to coming back

  • Carol B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground

    Nice sites on Carlyle Lake- great host

    Our site was on the shore and had good spacing from others. The bathrooms, showers, and laundry all close by. Good hot water in the showers. The host was friendly and helpful. I’d go back again!

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dam East - Mcnair Campground
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Dam East - Mcnair Campground

    Location Great for Travel

    McNair ACE: Tate 4 for cleanliness and stopover location for travels on nearby highway. (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 Price 2024: $ 9w interagency pass Security: no Usage during visit: 1/3 Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: no Site Spacing: closer Pad surface: blacktop Reservations: Required Campground Noise: No Outside Road Noise: no Through Traffic in campground: no Electric Hookup: yes Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: yes Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: Nice flush Showers: small private Cell Service (AT&T): 2-3 bars Setting: near lake Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Outside sites are by far the best. 16,17,18 are favorites .

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dam East Recreation Area
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Dam East Recreation Area

    GREAT LOCATION for STOPOVER

    East Dam ACE, IL: Not an interesting view from here, but well maintained campground . Quiet.
    (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 for cleanliness and location for travels on nearby highway. Spillway is not particularly pretty. Price 2024: $9 w interagency pass Security: No gate Usage during visit: 60% during the week Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: No Site Spacing: Good Pad surface: Blacktop Reservations: Required. Can be made upon arrival through rec.gov Campground Noise: Quiet Outside Road Noise: No Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: At nearby ACE campground Potable Water Available: At site Bathroom: In adjacent day use area Showers: No. Nearby - check w host. Pull Throughs: Some Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars Setting: along Kaskasia River/ spillway Recent Weather: 80s Insects: no Host: yes Rig Size: large Sites: Some sites are along the spillway.

  • Cecilia
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Hills
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Pine Hills

    Very nice

    Very quiet and secluded. Campsites are roomy and some firewood is supplied.

  • Rach W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area

    Enjoyable time

    Campground was quiet and well kept. Foliage was well trimmed. There was a spot from previous campers that needed cleaned up, but that's more of a reflection of the previous campers and less the camp ground, in my opinion, as it was not an overall theme.

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Molly B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground

    Great Community camp not too far off the highway

    My sister and I stopped here on our way to wisconsin, We were surprised how lovely it was! Birds everywhere and the lake was so huge. The camp sites were big and many of them, the bathrooms were always clean and had AC!

  • Alex D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Boulder Rec. Area - COE Campground

    A beautiful little spot !

    First off, a bang for you buck compared to some surrounding camp sites. They have PLENTY of sites, most with some view of the water. They have a boat launch, bathrooms, and showers. We stayed here 3 nights. The shores are quite rocky so it can be difficult to access the water just to swim. Overall, it was great. My only complaint is there is only one trash located in the beginning on the park & it was full, full, full!!!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • Wil V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    May. 30, 2024

    Benton KOA

    Loud

    1 side is directly on the freeway VERY loud, the other is in between the sewer treatment plant and municipal airport. If you're a light sleeper might want to stay away Full video review on YouTube https://youtu.be/QpuNpA7UVZI

  • William  Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
    May. 30, 2024

    Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

    Wonderful surprise

    Arrived just after a terrible storm so parts of the park were closed for clean up. The parts that were open were all cleaned up, spacious sites, easy access, with fantastic hosts. An absolutely beautiful evening in gorgeous surroundings…we’ll be back and so glad we stumbled upon this place. Didn’t use the showers so can’t report on the facilities….

  • Matt M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area
    May. 20, 2024

    Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

    Nice State Park Campground

    We stayed here for the eclipse in April. No real issues. Kids had plenty of room to run around, hike and safely ride bikes around the campground. Showers and bathrooms were typical for a state park.

    There were heavy storms the night before the eclipse and everyone in tents were completely soaked. The area around our site had really poor drainage. We had noisy neighbors that were up until at least 2 or 3 with zero regards for anyone else trying to sleep.



Guide to Sesser

Camping near Sesser, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different needs.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Giant City State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter," making it a great spot year-round.
  • Fishing: Enjoy some fishing at Gun Creek. A camper shared, "Clean facilities. Self check-in. Golf onsite, clubhouse with food," highlighting the convenience of amenities nearby.
  • Nature Observation: Visit Jackson Falls for stunning views and wildlife. One reviewer noted, "Great hiking around the area," perfect for nature lovers.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Harmonie State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Everything was well kept and clean," which is a big plus for families.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Shawnee Forest Campground. One camper remarked, "The camp was clean and well maintained," making it a comfortable choice.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Eldon Hazlet State Park. A reviewer stated, "Wonderful hosts checked us in," which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "There is no potable water on site," so plan accordingly.
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends at places like Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Very busy on Fridays and weekends," so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience.
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, such as Jackson Falls, have rough access roads. A reviewer said, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy," so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

Tips for camping with families

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Harmonie State Park Campground. A camper shared, "There are trails, picnic areas and a boat ramp," making it family-friendly.
  • Plan for Activities: Choose a campground near hiking and fishing spots, such as Giant City State Park Campground. One family enjoyed, "The vault toilets were fine and the playground was good," ensuring fun for kids.
  • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, especially if you're visiting places like Shawnee Forest Campground, where amenities may be limited.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Before booking, check if the sites are level, especially at Gun Creek. A reviewer mentioned, "Not all spots are level," which can be a hassle for RVers.
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has electric hookups, like Eldon Hazlet State Park. One camper noted, "Our site only had electric hookup," so confirm before you go.
  • Self Check-In: Many campgrounds, such as Okaw Valley Kampground, offer self check-in. A visitor said, "Very friendly owner/manager who made sure all needs met," making the process smooth.

Camping near Sesser, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Sesser, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Sesser, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 96 campgrounds and RV parks near Sesser, IL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Sesser, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sesser, IL is Gun Creek with a 4.7-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sesser, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Sesser, IL.

  • What parks are near Sesser, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Sesser, IL that allow camping, notably Rend Lake and Shawnee National Forest.