The best camping near Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area adventure.

See what Rend Lake is all about at this state park in southern Illinois.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

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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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Big Muddy Brewing

42 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, IL

Big Muddy Brewing is 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 Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more. Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University. Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.

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Tall Tree Lake

62 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Buncombe, IL

We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.

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Sonny Hills

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Eddyville, IL

70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet, we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away. Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Kitchen is fully equipped with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates and all utensils, as well as with coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace, that has been converted to gas for easy lighting. Hot Tub on the large back deck with nice views of private lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. $115.00 per night for two people, Discount for weekday stay. 2 night minimum. Tent and RV camping sites available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. It is suggested that campers arrive at or before sunset. The drive is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights. Shade or sunny areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds, and one small mix breed that runs the place). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.

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Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents65 acres · Eddyville, IL

Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.

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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.

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MC Lodging

15 sites · RVs15 acres · Vernon, IL

MC Lodging is located on 15 acres. We have 29 sites with full hookup at each site. We are open year round. Our campground has a nice pond with some nice size fish. We have a pavilion with a laundromat and a shower house. We also have a playground for kids.if you’re looking for a nice secluded getaway, you have found it ❤️

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Barbara W.’s Land

26 sites · Tents25 acres · Tunnel Hill, IL

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Sheep shape

1 site · RV3 acres · Sparta, IL

Sparta Illinois Moffat Rd, Sparta, IL 62286, United States Two semi private lots. Out in the country but only 10 minutes from town. Fast unlimited wifi included. Full hookups. Pet and child friendly. background check required. We are easy going and relaxed We are working on starting a small farm of chickens and sheep, pets must be on leash if they chase or kill animals though. We are fine with off-leash as long as pets are monitored and trust worthy. Absolutely no drugs of any kind. We make chainsaw art and dog train so we both work from home. We were fully ime Rivers for almost 5 years. We just settled down this year. The site/s will be available starting Mid May possibly sooner. Electric, sewer and water located at site. Also the possibility of weekly or nightly rentals.

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Harmony Hill Acres

35 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Centralia, IL

Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots. We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access. The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move. We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds. ***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.

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The Back 20

129 sites · Tents2 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, hiking trails, and being 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 is available approximately one mile away. 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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Shooting House 2

3 sites · Lodging, RVs70 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.

The best camping near Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Upgrade your outdoor game at 19,000-acre Rend Lake reservoir. This well-developed area has plenty for everyone who passes through southern Illinois' biggest outdoor playground. Anglers, in particular, love the copious amounts of fish.

Cast your line from the park itself, because three-fourths of it has a shoreline along Rend Lake. Prepare for catching bass, channel catfish, and bluegill. Two state fishing records have been set here thanks to large bowfin and black crappie. You'll be smiling when you reach your limit by the end of the day.

Pack your shotgun for a unique Illinois experience. Seasonal pheasant hunts are popular here. Up to 120 hunters per day can take pheasants during designated times. As such, the park is also a training ground for sporting dogs. Many beagles, retrievers, and bird dogs learn the tricks of their trade near the lake.

243 modern campsites have full hook-ups. Seventeen tent sites provide a rustic experience. Each campsite is first-come, first served.