South Sandusky campground

For Illinoisans seeking the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities, South Sandusky Campground at Rend Lake in Benton, IL, offers an ideal escape. This well-regarded campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a favored spot for families, anglers, and anyone looking to enjoy the expansive beauty of Southern Illinois. With its spacious, well-maintained sites and proximity to a wide array of recreational activities, South Sandusky is truly a standout destination.

Situated on the picturesque shores of Rend Lake, this campground provides a serene backdrop for your next getaway. Imagine waking up to the peaceful sounds of nature, with plenty of shade from mature trees, and easy access to both land and water activities. Whether you're pulling in with an RV, setting up a tent, or just looking for a fantastic day by the lake, South Sandusky Campground delivers a welcoming and memorable experience for all who visit.

South Sandusky Campground is ideally located at Co Hwy 44, Benton, IL 62812, USA, placing it directly on the shores of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. Its precise physical address for GPS is 7820 Red Oak Lane, Sesser, IL 62884. This prime location offers campers immediate access to one of Illinois' largest and most popular recreational lakes.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, making it a convenient destination for Illinois residents. From I-57, visitors can take Exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. After approximately 3 miles, turn right on Rend City Road and continue for about 6 miles to reach the campground entrance on the right. This well-signposted route ensures a smooth arrival, even for those unfamiliar with the area. The strategic location provides a feeling of being immersed in nature while still being within a reasonable drive of local towns like Benton for supplies and other amenities. This blend of natural seclusion and easy access makes South Sandusky a highly desirable camping spot.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: South Sandusky offers more than 100 reservable campsites, with all sites providing electric hookups (30 and 50 amp available). Some sites also include water and sewer hookups for full convenience.

• Paved & Spacious Sites: Many sites are "big paved spots" with "huge gravel picnic areas," offering ample space for campers, vehicles, and outdoor living. Sites are generally "nicely spaced, with good buffers of trees" providing privacy.

• Shower Houses & Flush Toilets: Modern restroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets are available, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. As one reviewer noted, the "shower house is close by."

• Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is available throughout the campground.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RVs.

• Playgrounds: Two playgrounds are located within the campground, making it highly suitable for families with children.

• Boat & Truck Parking: Campers have "spaces to park both your boat and truck next to your camper," a significant advantage for those bringing watercraft.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside your vehicle.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires.

• Reservations: Most campsites are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by phone.

• Prime Rend Lake Access: The campground's location on Rend Lake provides direct access to a vast 18,900-acre lake known for boating, fishing, and water sports. A boat ramp is available for easy launching.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Rend Lake is renowned for its fishing, with abundant crappie, bass, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line and enjoy a successful day on the water.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With two playgrounds directly within the campground, South Sandusky is an ideal spot for families with "kiddos." The spacious sites also allow room for children to play safely.

• Shaded and Private Sites: Many campsites are "nicely shaded spots" with good tree coverage, providing relief from the sun and a sense of privacy. This adds to the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

• Proximity to Rend Lake Beach: South Sandusky Beach is located nearby, offering a sandy area for swimming and relaxation, although campers should note that no pets or alcohol are allowed on the beach.

• Extensive Bike Trails: Miles of paved bike trails wind through the Rend Lake area, accessible directly from the campground. These trails are perfect for leisurely rides or more vigorous exercise, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty of the region.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding fields, forests, and waters of Rend Lake are home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, and various waterfowl, offering great opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Nearby Attractions: Beyond the lake, visitors can explore attractions such as the 27-hole championship Rend Lake Golf Course, the Southern Illinois Artisans Shop, and various local museums and wineries, all just minutes away.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers consistently praise the "very nice campgrounds" and "well kept facility," including clean shower houses and flush toilets, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

For inquiries and reservations regarding South Sandusky Campground at Rend Lake, please use the following contact details:

Address: Co Hwy 44, Benton, IL 62812, USA (Physical Address: 7820 Red Oak Ln, Sesser, IL 62884)

Phone: (618) 724-2493 (Rend Lake Project Office)

Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

For Illinois residents, South Sandusky Campground at Rend Lake is an unparalleled choice for an outdoor getaway, perfectly blending convenience with a wealth of recreational opportunities. Its appeal lies in its comprehensive offerings that cater to a wide range of local campers, from families with young children to avid anglers and those simply seeking a peaceful retreat close to home.

The campground’s location on the shores of Rend Lake is a significant draw, providing direct access to a vast body of water known for its excellent fishing and boating. For many Illinoisans, having a place where you can easily "park both your boat and truck next to your camper" and be on the water in minutes is a huge advantage. This makes it an ideal hub for weekend fishing trips or longer boating excursions, eliminating the hassle of distant launches.

Families will particularly appreciate the "huge gravel picnic area" and the dedicated "playground for the kiddos," ensuring that there's ample space for play and relaxation right at the campsite. The presence of modern, "close by" shower houses and flush toilets adds a level of comfort that makes camping enjoyable for all ages, something often highly valued by those looking for a family-friendly experience.

Furthermore, the "nicely shaded spots" offer respite from the Illinois sun, creating a more comfortable camping environment throughout the day. While some rustic campgrounds might have their challenges, South Sandusky provides a balance of natural beauty with essential amenities that cater to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Even with the presence of active wildlife like raccoons, which is common in natural settings, the overall peaceful atmosphere and well-kept facilities make it a highly desirable destination.

Ultimately, South Sandusky Campground offers an accessible, activity-rich, and comfortable camping experience right in our own backyard. It’s a place where Illinoisans can create lasting memories, reconnect with nature, and enjoy all the recreational benefits that Rend Lake and Southern Illinois have to offer, making it a perfect fit for any local outdoor enthusiast.

This video offers a visual tour and review of South Sandusky Campground at Rend Lake, which can help potential visitors get a better sense of the site. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kMJHXkgIow)

South Sandusky campground

Co Hwy 44, Benton, IL 62812, USA