Wayne Fi.... Campground

For Illinois residents, the call of the great outdoors often leads to our beautiful state parks, offering a respite from daily life and a chance to reconnect with nature. When planning your next camping adventure in Southern Illinois, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area, often simply referred to as Wayne Fitzgerrell, stands as a significant destination on Rend Lake. This expansive park provides a diverse range of outdoor activities and camping options, making it a popular choice for families, anglers, hikers, and those simply seeking a peaceful retreat.

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a comprehensive outdoor playground. Overlooking the vast 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir, the park acts as a gateway to some of Southern Illinois' most cherished natural attractions. While some aspects of its facilities have received mixed reviews, its sheer size, abundant wildlife, and direct access to a premier fishing lake make it a noteworthy spot for Illinois locals. The park is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its preservation and continued availability for public enjoyment.

The essence of Wayne Fitzgerrell lies in its potential for adventure and its connection to the natural environment. From the serene moments spent fishing on Rend Lake to the exhilarating experience of watching diverse wildlife, there’s something here for nearly every outdoor enthusiast. For Illinoisans looking to explore the natural beauty within our own state, this park presents a convenient and amenity-rich option, particularly for those with RVs or a love for water-based activities.

Despite some feedback regarding older facilities, many campers highlight the friendly atmosphere and the generous spacing of sites as significant positives. This creates a welcoming environment where fellow campers often enhance the experience, fostering a sense of community. Understanding these nuances helps Michigan locals, considering a trip to Southern Illinois, to set appropriate expectations and fully appreciate the unique offerings of Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area.

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area is strategically located at 11094 Ranger Rd, Whittington, IL 62897, USA. This address places it firmly in Southern Illinois, a region known for its rolling hills, vast forests, and significant waterways. The park's most prominent geographical feature is its extensive shoreline along the 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir, making it a prime destination for water-based recreation.

Accessibility to Wayne Fitzgerrell is generally straightforward for Illinois residents. It is situated just off I-57, a major interstate running north-south through the state, making it a convenient stop for travelers or a dedicated destination. Specific directions often advise using Exit 77 on I-57, which leads directly to the park headquarters at Whittington. While some visitors have mentioned a "weird winding road" from the north, overall access is considered easy, especially with modern navigation. Its proximity to major roadways means that even those coming from Chicago or St. Louis can reach the park within a reasonable drive time, making it an accessible getaway for a large portion of Illinois's population.

Being near the towns of Whittington, Benton (approximately 15 miles away), and Sesser (about 6 miles west), means campers have convenient access to local amenities such as grocery stores, dollar general stores, and a few restaurants. This blend of natural seclusion with nearby urban conveniences enhances the practicality and enjoyment of a camping trip to Wayne Fitzgerrell.

• Over 240 modern campsites with electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp service available).
• 40 primitive tent sites for a more rustic experience.
• Three shower buildings available for campers.
• Sanitary facilities including restrooms and a dump station for RVs.
• Campground host available for registration and assistance upon arrival.
• Accessible camping spots and accessible shower stalls in two loops.
• Water hydrants are available throughout the park, though not at every site (best to bring water in tanks).
• Designated picnic areas, some with shelters, tables, fireplaces, and playground equipment.
• Boat launches providing direct access to Rend Lake for fishing and boating.
• Hiking and biking trails, including a newly constructed 4-mile trail connecting to the Rend Lake College Bike Trail.
• Opportunities for hunting (deer, turkey, controlled pheasant hunt) and sporting dog field trials.
• Wildlife observation and birding opportunities (deer, turkey, various birds including eagles).
• A playground for children near the large bathhouse.

• Expansive Rend Lake Access: With three-quarters of its boundary along the 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir, Wayne Fitzgerrell is a paradise for water enthusiasts. It offers outstanding opportunities for fishing (renowned for crappie, bass, catfish, and bluegill), boating, and water skiing. The numerous boat launches and extensive shoreline provide ample space for anglers and boaters to enjoy the vast waters.
• Spacious Campsites: Many campers consistently praise the very large, level sites available at Wayne Fitzgerrell. These spacious lots, often with high canopy shade trees, provide ample room for RVs, tents, and personal outdoor setups, ensuring privacy and comfort. This is a significant advantage, allowing for a more relaxed and less crowded camping experience.
• Electrical Hookups: A majority of the modern campsites offer electric hookups (both 30 and 50 amp service), catering to RV and trailer campers. This convenience allows for comfortable stays, enabling the use of appliances and climate control. While full hookups are not universally available, the presence of electric service is a major draw for many.
• Abundant Wildlife and Birding: The park's diverse habitats, including oak/hickory woodlands, prairie grass fields, and wetlands, support a rich variety of wildlife. Campers frequently spot deer, turkey, raccoons, and squirrels. Birders will find excellent opportunities to see great blue herons, American bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and a wide array of waterfowl and shorebirds, making it a fantastic spot for nature photography and observation.
• Outdoor Activities Galore: Beyond camping, Wayne Fitzgerrell offers a plethora of activities. It's a popular destination for hunting (including controlled pheasant hunts), horseback riding on a 9-mile bridle trail, picnicking at over 150 sites, and enjoying playgrounds. The newly constructed 4-mile hiking/biking trail further enhances recreational options for active visitors.
• Friendly Camping Community: Despite some critiques, a consistent positive highlight from reviews is the friendly and outgoing nature of the campers at Wayne Fitzgerrell. This creates a welcoming atmosphere where interactions with fellow outdoor enthusiasts can enhance the overall experience, fostering a sense of community that many campers cherish.
• Dedicated Campground Hosts: The presence of a campground host who assists with registration and is attentive to campers' needs is a valued service. This personal touch helps ensure a smoother arrival and addresses any immediate concerns, contributing to a more pleasant stay.
• Accessibility Features: The park demonstrates a commitment to accessibility with accessible camping spots, asphalt pads, sidewalks to shower buildings, and accessible fishing locations with concrete sidewalks and floating docks, ensuring that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the park's offerings.

Address: 11094 Ranger Rd, Whittington, IL 62897, USA

Phone: (618) 629-2320

Mobile Phone: +1 618-629-2320

For Illinois residents, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area stands as a significant and versatile option for outdoor adventure, particularly for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. Its expansive size, direct access to Rend Lake, and wide array of activities make it a compelling destination right in our backyard. We understand the desire for convenient, diverse, and engaging outdoor experiences close to home, and Wayne Fitzgerrell largely delivers on these fronts.

The park’s primary suitability for locals lies in its robust offerings for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Whether you're an avid angler keen to fish for crappie on Rend Lake, an RV enthusiast seeking spacious electric sites, a family looking for a place with playgrounds and trails, or a hunter participating in a controlled pheasant program, Wayne Fitzgerrell accommodates a wide range of interests. This diversity means that it can cater to different members of an Illinois family or group, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

While some older reviews mention concerns about facility upkeep, more recent feedback often highlights positive aspects such as the friendly community of campers and the helpfulness of the campground hosts. For Illinoisans, this sense of camaraderie among fellow outdoor lovers can significantly enhance a trip, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages return visits. Furthermore, the sheer volume of space and the large, private campsites are a huge advantage, allowing for a more peaceful and uncrowded experience compared to some other state parks.

Its strategic location just off I-57 in Southern Illinois makes it remarkably accessible from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing enjoyment. Being close to smaller towns like Sesser and Benton provides the convenience of nearby supplies and local eateries, blending the rustic outdoor experience with practical modern amenities. Ultimately, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area, with its vast lake, abundant wildlife, and varied recreational opportunities, remains a valuable resource for Illinois residents seeking a memorable and engaging escape into the heart of our state's natural landscapes.

Wayne Fi.... Campground

11094 Ranger Rd, Whittington, IL 62897, USA