Camping sites surrounding Whittington, Illinois offer varied terrain along the shores of Rend Lake, with elevations ranging from 405-430 feet above sea level. Located in Franklin County, the region experiences hot, humid summers with average July temperatures around 89°F and mild winters with January lows averaging 28°F. Spring and fall typically provide the most moderate camping conditions with daytime temperatures between 65-75°F.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside sites: North Sandusky Campground features sites directly on Rend Lake with excellent access for anglers. According to one visitor at North Sandusky Campground, "Sites are close to the water so you can fish or boat right from your campsite." Another camper mentioned, "Beautiful and spacious camp sights in a quiet environment. We have had deer playing on an adjacent site to us."
Walking trails: Arrowhead Lake Campground offers a scenic walking path around the lake. One visitor reported, "We had a great stop at this campground. We called to secure a site last minute and are glad we found this campground. The grounds were nice, we walked a nature trail and down by the lake. There were ducks and geese, and it was a lovely reprieve from our travels."
Disc golf course: Try the disc golf course at North Sandusky. "There is a boat dock, boat ramp, playground, and disk golf course," notes one reviewer. The course is accessible to all campers and provides a recreational activity option beyond water sports.
What campers like
Lake views and wildlife: South Sandusky Campground offers exceptional water views from many sites. As one camper noted, "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous." Wildlife sightings are common, with another camper sharing, "Bring binoculars for egrets and herons on the lake."
Clean facilities: Arrowhead Lake Campground maintains well-kept restrooms. "The restrooms and showers were super clean. Enjoyed our stay will definitely be back," reports one visitor. Another mentions, "Very clean, level sites, large lake with a well maintained walking trail."
Fishing opportunities: The region's campgrounds are popular with anglers. A visitor to North Sandusky reports, "Good place to bring the kids for a day out. The fishing is really good here." Another camper at South Sandusky mentioned, "There is a dump station, flush toilets, a sand beach, boat ramp, 2 picnic shelters, a paved bike trail, and playgrounds."
What you should know
Site levelness varies: Check site descriptions before booking. A visitor to Gun Creek reported, "What a beautiful campground, it's our second time here. Some spots do have a fairly good slope to them." Another camper at North Sandusky mentioned, "Most sites are fairly level, but some have an incline to get into."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are affected by interstate traffic noise. A reviewer at Benton KOA noted, "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."
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. At Gun Creek, campers suggest booking early: "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." South Sandusky also requires advance planning with one camper noting, "Sites can be reserved on the Internet at www.recreation.gov."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Benton KOA offers family-friendly amenities. A camper mentioned, "Has a decent pond with catfish and bass. Usual fare for a KOA. Beautiful Trees and shrubs. Impressive stand of bamboo with secret grove. Definitely a family spot."
Beach activities: South Sandusky Campground features a swimming beach. "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!"
Quieter sections: For families seeking peaceful sites, consider specific loops. At South Sandusky, a camper noted, "They have quiet hours from 10-6 and the bathrooms and showers are always really clean." Another visitor at Arrowhead Lake mentioned, "Very nice, quiet, clean. We come here often. $25.00/night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configuration: At Marion Campground & RV Park, RVers should note site layouts. "Pull thru, 50 amp, full hookup. Bar, gaming, laundry, wifi, and showers on site. Military rate was $35 a night. Graveled Sites are close together." Another RVer added, "This campground is laid out very well. The showers/bathrooms are perfectly designed down to a shelf in the shower."
Site spacing: Consider proximity to neighbors when selecting your site. At Gun Creek, a reviewer observed, "Large campground with two loops and two spurs for camping. It didn't seem to matter where your site was, each was fairly small, on top of each other, and lacking the privacy I like when tent camping."
Cellular connectivity: Remote work capabilities vary between campgrounds. At North Sandusky, a camper reported, "We had ATT and Tmobile service at our site. Signal was strong enough to stream video and work remotely." Consider your connectivity needs when selecting an rv campground around Whittington.
