Gun Creek Campground offers a mix of primitive and modern camping options near Whittington, Illinois. Located on the shores of Rend Lake, the campground features various site types with electric hookups and some with full facilities. Camping areas maintain a natural setting with mature trees providing partial shade throughout the property, though some sites have a noticeable slope that requires careful setup.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Gun Creek Campground provides excellent lake access for anglers. "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. Many waterfront sites allow campers to fish directly from their camping area.
Hiking on paved trails: Shawnee Forest Campground features paved walking paths on its former golf course property. "It has the old golf cart paths as walking/biking paths! The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings," shares Greg S. These trails create a convenient circuit for morning walks or bike rides.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife throughout the seasons. At South Sandusky Campground, Gina J. mentions, "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous." Birdwatching opportunities are abundant near the shorelines.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at Giant City State Park Campground. "They have electric sites, and water is available but you need to fill your tank before setting up camp. Sites are flat and most are pull through," explains Joel R. This layout provides more privacy compared to crowded commercial campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness rates highly in camper reviews. At South Sandusky, a camper notes, "They have redone this whole place, really nice, very clean." Most campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for restrooms and shower houses.
Sunset views: Lakefront camping offers spectacular evening views. At Gun Creek, Jeff F. comments, "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here," adding that the "beautiful sunsets over the lake" make it worth returning. Sites with western exposure over water provide the best evening views.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have noticeable terrain variation. "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 Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Highway noise: Proximity to interstate highways affects sound levels at certain campgrounds. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park sits relatively close to the highway, and Kennon H. notes, "Lots of interstate noise. Many sites are very off level. CHECK carefully."
Booking systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance reservations while others operate first-come, first-served. For Crab Orchard Lake, a camper cautions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly beaches: Rend Lake offers swimming areas suitable for children. Missy D. shares about South Sandusky, "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!"
Multiple playgrounds: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment for children. "The campground features a nice playground, picnic tables, fire pits. It is wheelchair accessible and walking distance from the lake where you can swim, fish, boat, go tubing or just walk the trails," notes Chrissy W.
Family gathering spaces: Pyramid State Recreation Area provides more secluded options for family groups. "The campsites were close together but we visited in February so we were the only campers. The fire pits were a little run down but the sites were nice and level with a table," reports Logan W.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up. MickandKarla W. advise at Gun Creek, "The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice."
Off-season advantages: Visiting during cooler months provides more availability. "There are plenty of sites open in the upper 26-50 site area," notes one RVer. Lower occupancy means less competition for premium spots.
Travel supply needs: Stock up before arriving as services are limited near some campgrounds. "Prepare for a 40 min wait time if picking up [food] and it gets packed if you want to dine in," warns Jessica T. about restaurant options near Shawnee Forest Campground.
