Cedar Lake Campground

- 2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995

For Illinois residents looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the state, Cedar Lake Campground in Vienna offers a fantastic and friendly escape. Nestled within the picturesque Shawnee National Forest, this campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a community-oriented destination with a unique charm. Whether you’re an avid equestrian, a keen hiker, a cycling enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat by the water, Cedar Lake Campground provides a welcoming environment. It’s a true “great find” for anyone in Illinois eager to explore the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities of Southern Illinois.

Cedar Lake Campground is conveniently located at 2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995, USA. Its prime position within the sprawling Shawnee National Forest immediately places campers in a rich natural setting, offering easy access to some of Illinois's most beautiful landscapes. The campground is also notably close to the Tunnel Hill State Trail, a popular route for biking and hiking, as well as several local wineries that are part of the popular Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. For those traveling by RV or with trailers, the roads leading to the campground are generally accessible, and once inside, there are plenty of choices for sites. Its location provides a fantastic base for exploring the wider Southern Illinois region, making day trips to nearby natural attractions and charming small towns a breeze.

Cedar Lake Campground offers a range of services designed to accommodate various camping styles and ensure a comfortable stay:

• Campsites for All: With over 200 sites, Cedar Lake Campground caters to a diverse range of campers. This includes a good selection of electric/water hookup sites suitable for RVs and camper trailers of various sizes (e.g., a 25’ camper trailer had plenty of choices).
• Primitive Camping: For those who prefer a more rugged experience, there are numerous primitive spots scattered around the beautiful 25-acre lake.
• Equestrian-Friendly Facilities: The campground is particularly well-suited for horse lovers, with many yearly sites occupied by families who enjoy equestrian activities. While not explicitly detailed, this implies facilities such as horse ties or easy access to horse trails.
• Friendly Management: The campground is managed by friendly and helpful staff, such as Jessica, who are noted for assisting campers in finding their ideal spot.
• Water Access: Direct access to the 25-acre Cedar Lake allows for various water-based activities.
• Open Spaces: The campground features ample open spaces, which proved to be excellent for activities like eclipse viewing, suggesting large, comfortable areas between sites.
• Yearly Site Options: Many sites are available for yearly rental, fostering a sense of community among regular campers.

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

• In the Heart of Shawnee National Forest: Its location provides immediate immersion in the natural beauty of the Shawnee, offering direct access to its diverse ecosystems and attractions.
• Proximity to Hiking and Biking Trails: Campers have easy access to numerous hiking trails within the Shawnee National Forest, including the popular Tunnel Hill State Trail, which is ideal for both biking and walking.
• Close to Local Wineries: For those who enjoy a glass of local vintage, the campground's proximity to several wineries in the region is a significant draw, allowing for delightful day trips.
• 25-Acre Lake: The on-site lake is a central feature, providing opportunities for fishing, possibly kayaking or canoeing, and simply enjoying the tranquil water views.
• Welcoming Community: A consistent highlight from reviews is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by the campers, many of whom are regulars and horse enthusiasts. This fosters a strong sense of community.
• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the generous size and levelness of the sites, providing comfort and privacy.
• Suitability for Horse Campers: The campground is explicitly noted as "good for a camper" even without horses, but its popularity among horse lovers signifies it's well-equipped for equestrian camping.
• Eclipse Viewing Spot: Its open spaces made it an excellent location for viewing celestial events, indicating clear lines of sight and ample room.
• Potential for Wildlife Viewing: Being within a National Forest, there are opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Specific, ongoing promotional offers for Cedar Lake Campground are not widely publicized through available public data in the same way larger commercial chains might advertise. As a potentially family-run or smaller independent campground, promotions are often more localized or communicated directly. However, based on the friendly and welcoming nature described by reviewers, it's reasonable to infer that the management, like Jessica, might offer personalized assistance or perhaps even local insights that enhance the value of a stay. Given its popularity among yearly site holders, the campground likely offers competitive rates for longer-term stays. For the most accurate information on current pricing, availability, and any potential unadvertised specials or loyalty programs, it is highly recommended that interested campers contact Cedar Lake Campground directly via phone. They are best equipped to inform you of any current offers or how best to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons or events like the eclipse.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Cedar Lake Campground, you can reach them using the following contact details:

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

Phone: (618) 695-2600

Mobile Phone: +1 618-695-2600

Cedar Lake Campground is an excellent choice for Illinois residents looking to experience the diverse outdoor offerings of their home state. Its strategic location within the Shawnee National Forest provides immediate access to stunning natural landscapes, including a 25-acre lake and countless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. For horse enthusiasts, it's particularly appealing, offering a welcoming community where equestrian interests are shared. Even without horses, the friendly atmosphere, spacious sites, and proximity to attractions like the Tunnel Hill State Trail and local wineries make it incredibly versatile. It’s a place where families can enjoy the great outdoors, kids can play, and everyone can relax in a peaceful setting. The management’s helpfulness and the overall friendly vibe of fellow campers contribute significantly to a pleasant stay, making it a compelling "great find" that locals will want to revisit again and again for their Southern Illinois adventures.

Cedar Lake Campground

2090 Gilead Church Rd, Vienna, IL 62995, USA