The Rend Lake area surrounding Whittington, Illinois sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level, with terrain that varies from flat lakeside areas to gently rolling wooded hills. The region receives about 45 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush vegetation throughout the camping areas. Most camping spots near Whittington remain accessible from March through November, with partial closures during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Biking along lakeside trails: North Sandusky Campground features paved bike trails throughout the area. "Paved bike trails run throughout the area. We've been coming here for years, and this campground remains one of our favorites close to home," notes a visitor at South Sandusky Campground.
Fishing from your campsite: Many sites offer direct water access for immediate fishing opportunities. "Sites are close to the water so you can fish or boat right from your campsite. There is a boat dock, boat ramp, playground, and disk golf course," mentions a camper at COE Rend Lake North Sandusky Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports abundant local wildlife observation opportunities. "Beautiful and spacious camp sights in a quiet environment. We have had deer playing on an adjacent site to us. Fun place to camp with family and friends," reports a visitor at North Sandusky Rend Lake.
What campers like
Well-spaced, level sites: Gun Creek offers properly prepared camping spots. "Overall a great stay, very busy as it was full the entire time we were there while the state park down the road was empty. Nice place for families, most campers seemed to be fishing," notes a reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The shower house and rest rooms were clean and well-kept. There's a biking trail the we also used as a walking trail. Beautiful scenery along the way," reports a North Sandusky visitor.
Wooded settings with shade: Whittington Woods Campground provides mature tree cover. "Beautiful campground with mature trees providing lots of shade on the 100F weekend we were there. Gravel sites, level. A lot of common ground, shaded, picnic shelters. Short drive to Rend Lake, bike trails, kayaks, fishing."
What you should know
Site levelness varies considerably: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "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," warns a Gun Creek visitor.
Highway noise at certain locations: Benton KOA sits close to major roads. "Yes, there is highway noise. It's a KOA. Convenience of being easy off an interstate has its tradeoffs. That said, excellent staff, clean, professional KOA," notes a camper.
Reservation system complexities: Getting a spot can require advance planning. "The stay was pleasant and the lake was very nice but the reservation system and finding a spot was overly complicated for a first timer. Basically people show up and throw a cooler or tent onto a site to claim it and then leave," explains a Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "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!" shares a visitor at South Sandusky Campground.
Beach swimming options: Family-friendly water access points exist throughout the area. "South Sandusky campground is a Corps of Engineers campground on Rend Lake, just off I-57 in Southern Illinois. There is a dump station, flush toilets, showers, a sand beach, boat ramp, 2 picnic shelters, a paved bike trail, and playgrounds."
Wildlife education opportunities: Kids can observe natural habitats. "Never been to a CG with such abundant wildlife! Can sit at your spot and watch deer throughout the day. Spots are first come first serve but seldom sell out. Get there on Wednesday to get a spot on the water!" advises a Wayne Fitzgerrell visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations matter: South Marcum Campground provides various utility setups. "Great campground.. 50 amp service, some with water and some with Full hookup... Dump stations are EZ access on the way out..... Bathrooms were clean, loved Rend Lake," notes an RVer.
Site selection for size compatibility: Check site dimensions before booking. "Nice sites, although all sites face each other meaning you will be 5-10 feet from your neighbors if you are sitting out front. Full-hookups with only a 50amp connection so if you are using 30 make sure you have a 50/30 adapter," advises an Archway RV Park visitor.
Mid-week arrival recommended: Competition for prime spots increases on weekends. "Most sites here offer water and electric (50/30/20 AMP), while the Dogwood loop features several full hookup sites in its upper section. Note that the loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad."
