The best camping near Rend Lake

Between Rend Lake reservoir and its surrounding woods, this vast U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park contains almost 19,000 acres of water and 20,000 of land to explore. Though many come to paddle, boat, or fish on the lake, the park also offers great hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife watching, and stargazing. Rend Lake's 750-plus campsites are distributed across five campgrounds, many with full hookups, hot showers, and dump stations. Other park facilities include a marina and boat launches, playgrounds, a swimming area, and a disc golf course, making it an especially family-friendly camping destination.

• Best for families: South Sandusky Campground
• Best for disc huckers: North Sandusky Campground is close to the park’s disc golf course.
• Best for golfers: Gun Creek Campground is right near the park’s golf complex.

• All Rend Lake campsites are reservable six months in advance.
• Book early, especially for peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), as spots at Rend Lake can fill up quickly.
• Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
• Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
• Reservations can be made online or by calling 877-444-6777.
• If Rend Lake’s sites are full, you may also find camping at Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area, which is also on the lake.

Rend Lake’s campgrounds are seasonal and typically open in mid-March. Various loops and campgrounds close for the season between September and November. Summers are the busiest times at Rend Lake due to great weather, long days, and summer break. To avoid crowds, shoot for spring or fall and bring cold-weather camping gear. Winter is less ideal due to cooler conditions and some facility closures. For the current season’s dates, call the park’s Visitor Center at 618-724-2493.

• Just off Rend Lake’s south shore, Benton is the closest city to the park. It has a variety of stores, restaurants, and outdoor supply shops.
• Check the latest weather and local updates before your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
• Be aware of any temporary area closures, especially during hunting seasons or maintenance periods.
• Rend Lake has six paddling trails, and kayak rentals are available in Benton. The park visitor center can provide kayak trail information and resources.
• Visitor Center hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm, for any assistance or information.
• If you’re looking for another park to explore as a day trip from this area, check out the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest.
• Rend Lake is also home to the Rend Lake Golf Complex, which has a lodge, cabins, and condominiums in addition to a 27-hole golf course.