Camping options surround Sumner, Illinois with sites spread across the glacial plains and reclaimed mining lands of southern Illinois and western Indiana. The area features over 120 former strip mining lakes scattered throughout several recreation areas. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer camping brings humid conditions with daytime highs often reaching 85-95°F.
What to do
Fishing in reclaimed mine lakes: Greene Sullivan State Forest contains approximately 120 lakes created from former strip mines. "This is a really interesting State Forest property evolving from a reclamation project of donated land from various coal companies. Now encompassing nearly 9000 acres of woodlands and what it's best known for, some 120 lakes providing some of the best fishing in the state," notes a visitor to Narrow Lake Campground — Greene Sullivan State Forest.
Hiking through varied terrain: Fox Ridge State Park offers trails through the hilly forest terrain. "The hiking trails are some of the best in the state because the glaciers dropped of mountains of soil in the area where this park is located. The surrounding farm land is flat as can be, but the forested hills and creek beds in the park are almost mountainous," explains a reviewer from Fox Ridge State Park Campground.
Seasonal events and festivals: Harmonie State Park hosts special seasonal activities throughout the year. "They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating. There was also a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire," shares a camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer secluded camping spots. "Most sites are pretty large. Nice pool with water slide. They just need better walking trails," notes a review of Harmonie State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web. Kudos to the park employees & camp hosts!" writes a visitor to Shakamak State Park.
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Sumner, Illinois provides a comfortable alternative to tent camping. "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park, but there you go," notes a camper at Shakamak State Park Campground where platform yurts are available seasonally.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. "Very little cell phone signal. Very relaxing and enjoyable," mentions a reviewer at Harmonie State Park. At Stephen Forbes State Recreation Area, expect "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."
Weather considerations: Prepare for seasonal weather challenges. "In spite of the rain, we enjoyed the sights and sounds of nature and camping with the family," writes a Shakamak State Park visitor, while winter yurt camping near Sumner requires proper heating equipment.
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife includes raccoons and ticks. "We had a site by the lake, but there was no lake view & there was a steep incline to get down to the water. Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back," shares a Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming areas provide family fun. "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," describes a visitor to Harmonie State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds include playgrounds and activities. "In addition to the campground with at least 2 playgrounds, there are trails, picnic areas and a boat ramp," mentions a camper.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature centers and historical sites. "The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants," notes a Harmonie State Park visitor, while another adds, "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have specific site layouts that affect RV camping. "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit- the electric box is in an awkward place," advises a Shakamak State Park visitor.
Utility connections: Hookup options vary between campgrounds. At Miles Landing Campground, "Full hookups on every site, have in trees half in direct sun. Lots of full time residents, but very clean and very friendly. Will fit any size rig, or tents. Great wifi and cell signal."
Campground access: Some access roads require caution. At Greene Sullivan State Forest, "Sites on Wampler Lake and Reservoir 26 are all class c and offered as first come first serve basis with self-serve check in stations for $13. Scout ahead to determine your comfort level as most of these sites are not conducive to larger campers and the gravel access roads are sometimes washboard."
