Citizen's Lake Campground

For Illinois locals seeking a convenient, affordable, and well-kept camping destination, Citizen's Lake Campground in Monmouth offers a practical and enjoyable outdoor experience. Situated by a pretty lake, this campground provides a comfortable setting for both RVers with full hookups and tent campers looking for a budget-friendly stopover. While it might not offer the deep wilderness solitude some campers crave, its accessibility, fishing opportunities, and friendly atmosphere make it a solid choice for a quick escape or a base for exploring the western Illinois region. It's a place where you can easily cast a line, enjoy a campfire, and relax by the water without venturing far from town.

Citizen's Lake Campground is conveniently located in Monmouth, IL 61462, USA, situated right off a highway (likely the Highway 34/67 Bypass at the intersection with Highway 164), which contributes to its excellent accessibility for travelers. This prime location means easy entry and exit, making it a suitable stopover for those on longer journeys or a quick weekend getaway for locals. While the proximity to the highway and railroad tracks means there will be some vehicle and train noise, this trade-off provides immediate access to Monmouth's amenities, including restaurants and shops for any supplies or dining needs.

The campground operates seasonally, typically from April 1st to October 31st, catering to spring, summer, and fall camping enthusiasts. Its placement by Citizen's Lake allows for direct access to fishing and lakeside activities, with a boardwalk providing easy access around the lake's perimeter. The campground features concrete spaces for RVs, autos, and pop-ups, ensuring level parking, while a designated mowed grass area is available for tent campers. This blend of accessibility and amenities makes Citizen's Lake Campground a practical choice for a diverse range of campers.

Citizen's Lake Campground provides a good range of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for its guests:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: There are 30 full-service sites available, offering water, electricity (50 amp service is common), and sewer connections, ideal for RVs of all sizes.
• Designated Tent Camping Area: A mowed grass area (approximately 40x40 yards) is available for tent campers, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. This area includes a charcoal grill and two fire pits.
• Restroom Facilities: Bathroom facilities are available, equipped with hot showers. However, recent reviews indicate a need for more diligent cleaning and maintenance in the shower area.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for campers, and can also be used by non-site users for a fee.
• Picnic Tables: Upon request, the grounds manager can provide a wooden park picnic table to your space, adding convenience for outdoor dining.
• Loaner Extension Cords: The grounds manager has been known to loan out extra extension cords, a helpful service for tent campers who might need additional reach for electrical hookups.
• Regular Fish Stocking: Citizen's Lake is regularly stocked with fish, enhancing the fishing experience.
• Campground Manager/Host: Dan, the grounds manager, is noted for being helpful and accommodating, contributing to a positive guest experience.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, provided they are on a leash and owners clean up after them.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is open from April 1st to October 31st.

Citizen's Lake Campground offers several features and highlights that appeal to campers, particularly those focused on value and specific outdoor activities:

• Pretty Lake: The campground is set by a "pretty lake," offering scenic views and a pleasant backdrop for your stay.
• Excellent Fishing: Citizen's Lake is well-regarded for its fishing opportunities, with a variety of species including Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, and regularly stocked Rainbow Trout. Strict fishing regulations (e.g., two pole and line fishing only, electric trolling motors only) are in place to maintain the fish population.
• Lake Boardwalk: A boardwalk surrounds much of the lake, providing easy access for fishing and enjoying the waterfront views. There is also plenty of cleared ground to access fishing all the way around the lake.
• Well-Kept Grounds: The campground itself is described as "very nice and well kept," with well-maintained grassy areas.
• Affordable Pricing: Tent camping is notably affordable at $10-$15 per night, offering great value for money, especially with electric hookup availability. RV sites also offer competitive weekly and monthly rates.
• Spacious RV Sites: Concrete RV spaces are designed to accommodate large RVs and pop-ups, often with power and water hookups at each lot.
• Sense of Safety: Campers have expressed feeling "safe & comfortable" during their stay.
• Friendly Management: The positive interactions with the grounds manager, who goes out of his way to assist campers, are a significant highlight.
• Convenient Location: Being right off a highway and close to Monmouth provides easy access to town amenities.

For reservations or questions regarding Citizen's Lake Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Monmouth, IL 61462, USA

Phone (April 1st to October 31st): (309) 221-5131 (Campground Manager)

Phone (Before April 1st and after October 31st): (309) 734-2141 (City of Monmouth, IL)

Mobile Phone: +1 309-734-2141

For locals in Illinois, Citizen's Lake Campground in Monmouth is an excellent choice for a camping experience that balances affordability with accessibility and recreational opportunities. If you're looking for a low-cost tent site with electric access, or a full-service RV spot without breaking the bank, this campground delivers great value. The well-kept grounds and pretty lake offer a pleasant environment, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the fantastic fishing opportunities on Citizen's Lake, which is regularly stocked with various species, ensuring a good chance of a catch. The convenient boardwalk makes it easy for anglers of all ages to enjoy the sport. While the proximity to the highway and railroad tracks means some ambient noise, this is a trade-off for being so close to the amenities of Monmouth, allowing for quick runs to town for supplies or a meal. The responsiveness and helpfulness of the grounds manager, Dan, add a personal touch that enhances the overall experience, making campers feel welcome and supported. Despite some minor issues with bathroom cleanliness noted in a recent review, the overall sentiment points to a safe, comfortable, and well-managed campground that provides a solid base for exploring the local area or simply enjoying a relaxing lakeside stay. It's a practical and enjoyable option for your next Illinois camping adventure.

Citizen's Lake Campground

Monmouth, IL 61462, USA