Crab Orchard E10

crab orchard campground map, crab orchard lake campground

For our fellow Illinoisans seeking a blend of natural beauty, lakeside recreation, and convenient camping amenities, Crab Orchard E10 Campground in Carterville, IL, presents an inviting destination. As a vital part of the extensive Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in Southern Illinois's diverse ecosystems while enjoying the comforts of a well-maintained facility. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a memorable getaway, or simply someone yearning for peaceful nights under the Illinois stars, Crab Orchard E10 provides a welcoming environment. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what makes this campground a popular choice for locals, detailing its location, services, standout features, and why it's perfectly suited for your next Illinois outdoor adventure.

Crab Orchard E10 Campground is located at 10015 Campground Dr, Carterville, IL 62918, USA. This address places it directly within the expansive Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, a significant natural and recreational area in Southern Illinois. For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the central and southern parts of the state, Carterville is an accessible destination, making the campground a convenient choice for both weekend trips and longer vacations. The campground benefits from its proximity to major routes, ensuring relatively easy navigation for those traveling with RVs or trailers. Being nestled within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge means that campers have direct access to one of the largest and most ecologically diverse areas in Illinois. The campground itself is situated on Crab Orchard Lake, offering immediate lakeside enjoyment. The overall accessibility, combined with the stunning natural setting, positions Crab Orchard E10 as an ideal base for exploring the rich outdoor offerings of Southern Illinois.

Crab Orchard E10 Campground, also known as Crab Orchard Lake Campground, offers a variety of services to accommodate diverse camping preferences, ranging from full-service RV sites to more traditional tent camping. These amenities aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay within the natural refuge setting.

• RV Campsites: The campground features 62 RV campsites with a variety of hookup options.
• Full Hook-Up Sites: Available for $25 per night, offering electric, water, and sewer connections for maximum convenience.
• Electric/Water Sites: Available for $20 per night, providing essential electric and water hookups.
• Non-Electric (Primitive) Sites: Available for $10 per night, suitable for tent campers or those preferring a more rustic experience.
• Tent Campsites: There are 7 dedicated tent campsites.
• Clean Showers and Flush Restrooms: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of these essential facilities. (Note: These facilities are typically closed from mid-November to April 1st).
• Dump Station: A convenient facility for RV waste disposal.
• Fire Rings: Provided at each campsite for campfires.
• Laundry Facility: An on-site amenity for longer stays.
• Camp Store: Offers camping essentials, firewood, ice, snacks, and other necessities.
• Swimming Beach: Available for guests from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (refuge entrance fees apply).
• Pet Friendly: Pets are welcome on a leash (maximum 10 feet), though not permitted in restrooms, on the beach, or in picnic areas.
• Open Season: Generally open from April 1st until mid-November.
• Site Capacity: Each campsite is limited to a maximum of eight (8) people and two camping units (only one of which may be wheeled), with a maximum of three vehicles.

The features and highlights of Crab Orchard E10 Campground are what make it a consistently popular choice for Illinois campers, offering a blend of natural beauty and practical amenities.

• Diverse Site Options: The availability of full hook-up, electric/water, and non-electric sites caters to a wide range of camping styles, from large RVs seeking full comfort to tent campers desiring a more traditional experience. This versatility ensures that most visitors can find a site that suits their needs and budget.
• Impeccably Clean Facilities: A consistent highlight from visitors is the cleanliness of the "showers and flush restrooms." This attention to hygiene is crucial for a comfortable camping experience and is often a top priority for campers.
• Direct Lake Access and Recreation: Located on the shores of Crab Orchard Lake, the campground offers immediate opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is known for excellent fishing, including species like crappie, bluegill, and bass, making it a prime spot for anglers. The presence of a swimming beach adds to the recreational value, especially during warmer months.
• Peaceful Natural Surroundings: Being nestled within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge means campers are surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering "breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere." Many sites provide "spacious sites that often overlook the lake," ensuring stunning vistas and a tranquil environment. The refuge itself boasts abundant wildlife, making it excellent for birdwatching and nature photography.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground is considered "family-friendly," providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages. Amenities like the swimming beach, camp store, and general relaxed atmosphere contribute to its appeal for family getaways.
• On-Site Camp Store: The convenience of an on-site store offering essentials like firewood and ice can significantly enhance a camping trip, reducing the need to leave the campground for supplies.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Reviews generally indicate that the campground is well-kept, contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

While a previous review mentioned some concerns about money handling, it's important to focus on the publicly available, factual information regarding the campground's services and features. These are consistently praised by the majority of visitors, highlighting the physical amenities and natural experiences.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more specific information about Crab Orchard E10 Campground (Crab Orchard Lake Campground), you can use the following contact details:

Address: 10015 Campground Dr, Carterville, IL 62918, USA

Phone: (618) 995-9130

Alternative Phone (Crab Orchard NWR Visitor Center): (618) 997-3344 ext. 1

Reservations can often be made through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or third-party booking sites like Recreation.gov or Firefly Reservations.

Crab Orchard E10 Campground is an ideal choice for Illinois locals seeking a versatile and enjoyable camping experience within one of our state's premier natural areas. Its location on the scenic Crab Orchard Lake, within the vast National Wildlife Refuge, offers immediate access to fishing, boating, swimming, and abundant wildlife viewing, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation right in our own backyard. The variety of campsite options, from full hookups for RVs to non-electric sites for tent campers, ensures that all types of campers can find a suitable spot. The consistently praised clean facilities, including restrooms and showers, significantly enhance comfort and convenience, making for a more enjoyable stay. For Illinois families, anglers, or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat that balances natural immersion with essential amenities, Crab Orchard E10 Campground offers a compelling and accessible option. It represents the best of Southern Illinois camping, allowing our local residents to relax, explore, and create lasting memories without needing to travel far from home.

Crab Orchard E10

10015 Campground Dr, Carterville, IL 62918, USA