Best Camping in and near Rend Lake

100% (1 reviews)

Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Rend Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Rend Lake

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Gun Creek Campground

100 sites · RVs, Tents In Rend Lake

Dale Miller Youth Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Rend Lake

Top-rated campgrounds near Rend Lake

Booked 66 times

Eclipse at The Back 20

121 sites · Tents20 acres · Mount Vernon, IL

Discover the beauty of nature on our 20-acre property, where primitive tent sites await your peaceful retreat. Embrace the simplicity of a camping experience with contained fires and the companionship of your pets, all while enjoying the serene rural setting. For those who enjoy fishing, off-road trails, and the allure of a breathtaking eclipse away from city lights, our location offers the perfect backdrop. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the countryside and make lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of nature. There is no running water at this site but fresh running water and a shower are available at the old ranch house less than a mile away. Water is readily available less than a mile away, ensuring your basic needs are met as you embark on a rustic and adventurous camping journey. We welcome you to join us for an unforgettable stay, and if you have any further questions or inquiries, please feel free to reach out. Your peaceful and scenic escape awaits!

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(456)

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL

The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.

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Bubba J's RV Park

13 sites · RVs3 acres · Nason, IL

Welcome to Bubba J's RV Park. 85' + Pull Throughs with FULL hookups - 20/30/50 Amp Electric - year-round water (bring a pressure regulator, our water pressure is great!)- 4" sewer. Huge clean restrooms (sorry, no showers). Each site has a picnic table and fire pit (firewood NOT provided so please bring your own).

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Ruff Neck Campsite

30 sites · TentsCarbondale , IL

Located in Southern Illinois, home to the Saluki. Ruff Neck Campsite offers a great location just 2 miles from Walker's Bluff, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (Shawnee Forest), and town amenities. The campsite is a great place to see the wildlife and if you are lucky, catch a glimps of the Bald Eagle 🦅Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent at the Ruff Neck Campsite. Located 2 miles from Walker's Bluff, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, and town with eateries.

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Big Muddy Brewing

37 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, IL

Big Muddy Brewing - Dead Center For 2024 Total Eclipse "The Great Gig In The Sky". Camping that week includes Free Shuttle Bus to Pond Ridge Adventure Campground (Eclipse Overflow Camping) plus local restaurants and attractions, Friday Night: Adlar Planetarium Presentations including Star Gazing , Music Saturday & Sunday By The Ivas John Band & The Monolithic Pink Floyd Night Show. Big Muddy's a production craft brewery and taproom offering over 25 beers on tap. Our taproom has beer tastings, pints and growlers as well as wine and craft spirits. We also have plenty of packaged beer to go. Our kitchen has Flatbread pizzas, Chicago dogs, Italian beef subs, Bavarian pretzels & more. Check our Facebook page for a schedule of events.

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Wild Honeysuckle Farm

36 sites · Tents40 acres · Dahlgren, IL

Welcome to our yard, the prime location for observing the 2024 solar eclipse! Situated directly in the path for the 3-4 minute mark of this extraordinary event, our space promises an unparalleled view of nature's majestic spectacle. We offer tent camping accommodations for those bringing their own tents, or you can bring your own blankets for those who prefer to lay out under the vast open sky. Please note that access to our home or buildings is not available, ensuring an authentic outdoor experience. For your convenience, we provide an outdoor faucet for basic needs. However, kindly note that we do not permit RVs or campers on the premises. Not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Only 2 campers per campsite. Must send ID and be pre-approved prior to booking. Prepare to be awestruck as you witness the breathtaking beauty of the solar eclipse from our tranquil yard. Secure your front-row seat to this celestial phenomenon by booking your stay now!

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Red Gate Farm, LLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Creal Springs, IL

Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp! Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment! If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.

Booked 3 times

Shooting House 2

3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Mount Vernon, IL

Peacefully secluded and nestled in a private wooded setting with fully graveled spots and available power this location has several miles of atv and hiking trails and is loaded with wildlife. If fishing is your thing don't forget your fishing poles! This is also a fantastic spot for finding old bottles and jars. For an additional fee there will also be horse and buggy rides to show you some key historical points along the Goshen Trail. Water is readily available on-site, ensuring your basic needs are met as you embark on a rustic and adventurous camping journey. We welcome you to join us for an unforgettable stay, and if you have any further questions or inquiries, please feel free to reach out. Your peaceful and scenic escape awaits!

Booked 5 times

Eclipse at The Corner Hay Field

11 sites · Tents3 acres · Bluford, IL

Nestled in the tranquil countryside, the corner Hay field offers a rustic retreat with ten primitive tent sites. Surrounded by swaying grasses and gently rolling hills, each site provides a serene escape into nature, ideal for those seeking simplicity and seclusion. With minimal amenities, campers can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance, under the vast expanse of the starlit sky, making it a perfect spot for those yearning for an authentic outdoor experience.

Booked 5 times

Eclipse at Summers Pasture

11 sites · Tents8 acres · Opdyke, IL

Nestled within the rolling hills of a picturesque countryside lies Summer's Pasture, an expanse of eight verdant acres enveloped in tranquility. A half-acre pond glistens like a jewel, reflecting the clear blue sky above and mirroring the surrounding foliage. The sprawling acres of Summer's Pasture provide ample space for leisurely strolls, picnics beneath the shade of trees, or simply basking in the gentle warmth of the sun. The melodious chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves in the breeze create a symphony of nature's serenade, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance. Whether one seeks solitude for introspection or companionship for joyful gatherings, this verdant sanctuary offers a sanctuary for all.

Booked 49 times

Pond Ridge Adventure

50 sites · Tents50 acres · Murphysboro, IL

We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animal.Learn more about this land:Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units

Booked 3 times

Eclipse at The Farm

5 sites · Tents3 acres · Opdyke, IL

Nestled amid tranquil Winter Wheat fields, five private primitive tent sites encircle a picturesque 1-acre private pond, offering a serene haven for nature enthusiasts. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, each tent site provides a secluded retreat, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature while enjoying the privacy of their own slice of paradise. These rustic sites offer a back-to-basics camping experience, where guests can reconnect with the simplicity of outdoor living. As the sun sets over the horizon, the gentle rippling of the pond's surface reflects the vibrant hues of twilight, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for campfire tales and stargazing adventures. Whether casting a line into the tranquil waters for a leisurely afternoon of fishing or simply lounging by the shore with a good book, guests can relish in the tranquility of their surroundings. With no distractions except the melodies of chirping birds, these primitive tent sites provide an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and embrace the serenity of the great outdoors.

The best camping near Rend Lake guide

Overview

About

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.

Notable campgrounds

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.

Tips for snagging a campsite

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.

When to go

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.

Know before you go

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.