Rend Lake offers the main camping opportunities near Sesser, Illinois, with 19,900 acres of water and 20,000 acres of land. The elevation around Sesser is generally flat, typically ranging from 400-450 feet above sea level, creating accessible terrain for most campers. While horse camping facilities aren't prevalent in the immediate Sesser area, nearby campgrounds offer standard camping options that horse owners might adapt for short stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gun Creek Campground provides excellent access to Rend Lake fishing spots. "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. The campground is particularly popular with anglers, as one reviewer observed: "Nice place for families, most campers seemed to be fishing."
Hiking trails: Giant City State Park Campground features multiple trail options within a 1-hour drive from Sesser. "Lots of amazing, beautiful hikes in this park, especially if you're into bluffs and large boulders. Easy drive to many other picturesque and unique parks (i.e. Garden of the Gods, Ferne Clyffe)," writes Kyle K. The Red Cedar Trail offers a 6-mile loop experience, though a reviewer cautions: "It does have markings, which keep you on the trail, but there's no way of knowing how far along the hike you are."
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, Rend Lake supports various water activities. "Anything you'd ever want to enjoy on the water is all at your finger tips! Hundreds of campsites, marinas with boat rentals, beaches and stores nearby in case you need something," shares J K. about the lake's recreational offerings. The lake's extensive shoreline provides multiple access points for watercraft.
What campers like
Spacious sites: South Sandusky Campground receives consistent praise for its site layout. "Full hookups to tent camping and spacious sites. This is a Corps of Engineer Campground so bring your America the Beautiful pass!" notes Mary F. The campground features multiple loops with varying levels of hookups, giving campers flexibility in choosing sites.
Lake views: Many sites offer direct water views. "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the sites are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous," explains Gina J. Gun Creek similarly offers waterfront options, with one reviewer noting: "Lots of 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."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility quality at these campgrounds. A recent visitor to South Sandusky reported: "All brand new. They have redone this whole place, really nice, very clean." Similarly, at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Campground, a reviewer appreciated: "Sites are well spaced apart," though they did note bathroom cleanliness varied.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Each campground around Sesser operates differently. At Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park, one reviewer explained the first-come system: "Basically people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave. They have to pay for the spot by 8pm. And people can stay as long as they want as long as they pay for the next day by then."
Site selection importance: At Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR, campers note site availability challenges. "The biggest thing about this campground is first come first serve...and one loop is closed for renovations. Most you can spend here is 14 days, which lots of locals do," advises a reviewer. Another adds: "Appears many locals take spots on the weekends & then hold onto them during the week."
Limited equestrian options: While specific horse campgrounds near Sesser, Illinois are limited, regional state parks occasionally accommodate horses. Pyramid State Recreation Area has some horseback riding trails, with one visitor noting: "Saw several people camping, and some were horse back riding on a trail." For dedicated equestrian camping, travelers typically need to venture beyond the immediate Sesser area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Shawnee Forest Campground offers family-friendly amenities though some limitations exist. One reviewer noted: "There is no playground or pool. The sites are loose gravel and not level front to back, so you need to unhook. No biggie. It's a pleasant place overall." The campground does provide "picnic tables and fire rings" at sites.
Beach activities: South Sandusky provides water recreation opportunities for children. "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground. There were kids everywhere and everyone was very friendly! Fun spot!" reports Missy D. This makes it ideal for summer family trips.
Wildlife viewing: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park offers unexpected wildlife encounters. "Abundant Wildlife," titles one review, while another specifically mentions: "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day." These natural encounters create memorable experiences for children camping in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness concerns: RVers should research site conditions before booking. At Gun Creek, a camper warned: "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." Similarly, at Shawnee Forest Campground, a reviewer noted sites are "not level front to back, so you need to unhook."
Hookup variations: Gun Creek offers different utility options. "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," advises Dave S. Knowing these differences helps RVers choose appropriate sites.
Traffic considerations: When staying at Shawnee Forest Campground, be aware of its location. "Super convenient to 24 but not too close that it is loud," notes one reviewer, though another mentions: "A little noisy at night with the interstate in the distance but we'd expected that." This information helps RVers balance convenience with noise preferences.
