Cedar Lake Campground

For those of us in Illinois, the call of the great outdoors is a familiar siren song, drawing us to the state’s diverse landscapes for relaxation and adventure. When it comes to camping, Illinois offers a wide spectrum of experiences, from rugged backcountry to comfortable RV sites. Today, we're focusing on a true gem in Southern Illinois: Cedar Lake Campground. Nestled within the breathtaking Shawnee National Forest, this campground provides a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a friendly community atmosphere, making it a perfect escape for locals seeking to reconnect with nature.

Cedar Lake Campground stands out as a versatile destination catering to a variety of camping preferences. Whether you’re pulling a 25-foot camper trailer, pitching a tent in a primitive spot, or bringing your horses along for an equestrian adventure, this campground offers a suitable base. What truly sets it apart, however, is the palpable sense of community. Visitors frequently remark on the friendly and welcoming nature of fellow campers, many of whom are long-term residents and avid horse lovers. This creates a warm, inclusive environment where new visitors quickly feel at home, embodying the best of Illinois hospitality.

Beyond its welcoming vibe, Cedar Lake Campground's location is a significant draw. Being enveloped by the Shawnee National Forest means immediate access to some of Illinois’ most stunning natural attractions, including extensive hiking trails, picturesque bike paths, and even a burgeoning wine region. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of nature, spend your day exploring, and unwind under a starlit sky. Let’s explore in more detail what makes Cedar Lake Campground an ideal choice for your next Illinois adventure.

Cedar Lake Campground is conveniently located at 2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995, USA. This address places it squarely within the scenic Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, offering unparalleled access to one of the state's most cherished natural resources. Vienna, a small, welcoming town, serves as the nearest community, providing a quiet backdrop to your outdoor pursuits.

The campground’s location within the Shawnee National Forest is a significant advantage for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides direct access to countless miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, lead to stunning bluffs, and offer breathtaking views. For cyclists, the renowned Tunnel Hill State Trail is approximately 4 miles away, providing an excellent, long-distance path for biking or walking. Other bike and horse trails are also close by, ensuring ample opportunities for various forms of exploration.

Beyond the immediate natural attractions, Cedar Lake Campground is also well-positioned for exploring other points of interest in Southern Illinois. There are at least three state parks within a 30-minute drive, along with numerous other sites within the Shawnee Forest, offering diverse landscapes and activities. For those with a palate for local flavors, the proximity to several wineries on the Southern Illinois Wine Trail provides a delightful opportunity for tastings and scenic drives, adding a unique cultural dimension to your camping trip.

While the campground offers a feeling of being immersed in nature, it remains accessible for most vehicles, including larger RVs. The main roads leading to Vienna and then to the campground are well-maintained. It's important to note that cell service can be intermittent within the campground, contributing to the "getting away from it all" experience. However, Wi-Fi is available at the main office for those who need to connect briefly.

Cedar Lake Campground offers a range of essential services and amenities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and convenient, catering to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Key services include:

• Diverse Camping Sites: The campground boasts over 200 sites. Visitors can choose from:
  • Electric/Water Hookup Sites: Plenty of choices for campers with RVs and trailers, though some sites may require extra hoses or extension cords for optimal hookup.
  • Primitive Spots: Numerous undeveloped sites are available around the 25-acre lake, ideal for tent camping or those seeking a more rustic experience.
  • Yearly Sites: A significant portion of the campground is dedicated to yearly sites, fostering a stable and welcoming community of long-term campers.
• On-site Management: The campground is managed by Jessica, who is consistently praised in reviews for being friendly, helpful, and dedicated to ensuring guest satisfaction.
• Bathhouse Facilities: At least one bathhouse is available, though previous guests note that while showers are present, amenities like hooks for bags outside the bathing area may be limited.
• Horse Facilities and Show Area: A unique offering for equestrian enthusiasts, the campground includes dedicated horse facilities and a show area.
• Open Space: The campground provides ample open space, perfect for various activities and, as one reviewer noted, ideal for viewing events like a solar eclipse.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available at the office, providing a connection point for campers, though its range may be limited to nearby sites.
• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly detailed, most campgrounds in Illinois welcome pets, and the general friendly atmosphere suggests this is a pet-friendly environment.

Cedar Lake Campground offers several features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers in Illinois:

• Prime Location in Shawnee National Forest: Being located directly within this vast forest provides immediate access to stunning natural beauty, extensive trail systems for hiking and horseback riding, and a tranquil environment.
• Friendly and Welcoming Community: A recurring theme in reviews is the incredibly friendly and welcoming nature of both the management and fellow campers, particularly the long-term residents and horse lovers. This fosters a strong sense of belonging and makes new visitors feel at home.
• Versatile Camping Options: The availability of over 200 sites, including electric/water hookups, primitive spots, and specialized equestrian sites, means there’s an option for almost every type of camper and rig.
• Access to Outdoor Activities:
  • Hiking: Close proximity to numerous hiking trails within the Shawnee National Forest.
  • Biking: Only about 4 miles from the famous Tunnel Hill State Trail, a premier biking and walking path in Illinois.
  • Horse Riding: Excellent facilities and direct access to equestrian trails for horse enthusiasts.
  • Fishing: The 25-acre private lake offers opportunities for fishing.
• Proximity to Wineries: Located near the Southern Illinois Wine Trail, offering a unique opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with local culinary and viticultural experiences.
• Responsive and Helpful Management: Jessica, the manager, is highly praised for her helpfulness and dedication to ensuring guests are well taken care of, enhancing the overall positive experience.
• Eclipse Viewing Friendly: The large open spaces proved ideal for viewing natural phenomena like the solar eclipse, indicating suitability for group gatherings or events.
• Opportunity to Unplug: Intermittent cell service encourages campers to disconnect from digital distractions and truly immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

For those interested in booking a site or learning more about Cedar Lake Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995, USA

Phone: (618) 695-2600

Mobile Phone: +1 618-695-2600

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or for specific site types (like equestrian sites), to confirm availability, current rates, and any specific requirements or recommendations for your stay. Speaking directly with the friendly staff, such as Jessica, can help ensure your visit is tailored to your preferences.

For Illinois residents seeking an authentic and enriching outdoor experience, Cedar Lake Campground in Vienna stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination. Its unique blend of natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community makes it a prime choice for families, individuals, and even equestrian enthusiasts across the state.

The primary draw for locals is its unparalleled access to the Shawnee National Forest. This means that whether you're an avid hiker, a keen cyclist looking to tackle the Tunnel Hill trail, or a horse lover eager to explore extensive equestrian paths, Cedar Lake Campground puts you right at the heart of the action. This direct connection to nature, often just a short drive from various Illinois towns and cities, provides an ideal escape from daily routines.

Furthermore, the welcoming atmosphere cultivated by both the management and the community of campers is a significant advantage. It's a place where you're likely to find friendly faces and feel like part of the extended camping family, even on your first visit. This supportive environment enhances the overall relaxation and enjoyment of your stay, making it more than just a campsite – it’s a temporary home away from home.

The flexibility in camping options, from full hookup RV sites to secluded primitive spots, ensures that Cedar Lake can cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Coupled with the proximity to local attractions like wineries, it offers a well-rounded experience that combines adventure with leisure. For any Illinoisan yearning for a memorable outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat, or a vibrant community experience, Cedar Lake Campground is an excellent choice to explore the natural wonders and friendly spirit of Southern Illinois.

Cedar Lake Campground

2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995, USA