Wayne Fi.... Campground

Are you looking for the perfect getaway to reconnect with nature, enjoy serene lake views, and partake in a wealth of outdoor activities right here in Illinois? Look no further than Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground, a cornerstone of the expansive Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area. Nestled in Southern Illinois, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity for locals to immerse themselves in a natural paradise, providing a refreshing escape from daily life without traveling far from home.

Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground is a cherished spot for many Illinois residents, known for its extensive access to the magnificent 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir. This makes it an ideal location for water sports enthusiasts, anglers, birdwatchers, and anyone who simply enjoys the tranquility of lakeside living. With a friendly and inviting atmosphere, it's a place where you can create lasting memories with family and friends, whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor adventure scene.

Conveniently situated at 11094 Ranger Rd, Whittington, IL 62897, USA, Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground is easily accessible for residents across Illinois. It’s located just off Illinois Route 154, a short drive west of Interstate 57, making it a straightforward journey for many who are looking to escape to the great outdoors. The park’s strategic location provides a gateway to Southern Illinois’s largest outdoor playground, placing you right in the heart of prime recreational opportunities.

The campground's proximity to major roadways means that a weekend retreat or an extended vacation is well within reach for most Illinois families. While some visitors have noted that the water hydrant at the dump station can be a bit messy, and other randomly located hydrants might be tricky to find, the overall accessibility to the site and its primary attractions remains a significant advantage for local users.

Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground provides a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. The campground aims to cater to various camping preferences, from those seeking modern amenities to more rustic experiences.

• Campsites: The campground offers 243 modern campsites with electrical hookups and sanitary facilities. There are also 40 primitive tent sites for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience. Some sites offer partial hookups, meaning you may need to bring fresh water in your tanks.
• Shower Buildings: Three shower buildings are available for campers, although some visitors have noted that restrooms and showers can be old and may require attention to cleanliness.
• Dump Stations: A dump station is available for RVs, though some users have mentioned that the water hydrant at this station can be inefficient.
• Picnic Areas: With over 150 picnicking sites throughout the park, visitors can easily find a perfect spot for a meal outdoors. Many areas are equipped with shelters, tables, fireplaces, and playground equipment. Some shelters are reservable and offer electricity and water.
• Reservations: Reservations for campsites can be made 180 days in advance of your arrival date, with some sites in Bay Area, Hickman's Point, and Lakeview camping loops being reservation-only. Lookout Point and Shady Rest operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Shelter reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
• Camping Rates: The fee for camping with electricity is $20 per night. There is an additional $10 per night fee during Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day holiday weekends.

Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground, as part of the larger State Recreation Area, boasts numerous features and highlights that draw visitors from across Illinois and beyond. It’s a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Rend Lake Access: Three-quarters of the park’s boundary is Rend Lake shoreline, offering exceptional opportunities for boating, fishing, and water skiing. Rend Lake is renowned for its sport fishing, particularly for white and black crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.
• Hunting Opportunities: The park hosts seasonal hunting programs, including a popular controlled pheasant hunt, as well as opportunities for upland game and deer hunting. It’s also a popular spot for sporting dog training field trials, with more than 25 events annually.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: A newly constructed 4-mile hiking/biking trail runs from the day-use areas through the campgrounds to Rend Lake Resort and connects to the Rend Lake College Bike Trail. Additionally, a 9-mile bridle trail encircles the wildlife/field trial area, perfect for horseback riding and wildlife observation.
• Wildlife Viewing and Birding: The diverse habitats, including oak/hickory woodlands, prairie grass fields, and wetlands, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Birders can spot great blue herons, American bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and various shorebirds and waterfowl. White-tailed deer, raccoon, opossum, and squirrels are also common sights.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Many campers note the particularly outgoing and friendly community spirit at Wayne Fitzgerrell, often more so than at other nearby campgrounds, which contributes to a welcoming and pleasant stay.
• Scenic Views: Visitors consistently highlight the amazing views, especially over Rend Lake, making for picturesque mornings and sunsets.

While specific, fluctuating promotions are best checked directly with the park office or on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website, Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground, as a state-managed facility, often provides certain benefits and rate structures:

• Illinois Resident Reductions: Special camping rate reductions may apply to Illinois residents only. It's always a good idea to confirm these details when booking.
• Campground Host Program: For those with an extended stay in mind, the IDNR often seeks campground hosts, who receive free camping at designated sites in exchange for their service. This can be a rewarding opportunity for avid campers.
• Membership Discounts: While not directly offered by the park, some third-party camping memberships (like Good Sam) may offer discounts at participating campgrounds, so it's worth checking if yours applies.

For the most current information on any promotions or discounts, it is recommended to contact the park directly or visit the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources camping reservation portal.

For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground, you can reach out using the following contact details:

• Address: 11094 Ranger Rd, Whittington, IL 62897, USA
• Phone: (618) 629-2320
• Mobile Phone: +1 618-629-2320

It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or for specific questions regarding site availability, amenities, or any current conditions like water availability at hookups.

For Illinois residents seeking a diverse and engaging outdoor experience, Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground is an excellent choice. Its prime location in Southern Illinois provides convenient access, meaning less travel time and more time enjoying the natural beauty. Overlooking the vast Rend Lake, it offers a refreshing escape that feels far removed from urban hustle, yet remains within easy reach.

The campground caters to a wide array of interests. Whether you’re an avid angler hoping to reel in a state-record crappie, a hunter seeking diverse game, a birdwatcher with binoculars ready for an American bald eagle sighting, or simply a family looking for a relaxing weekend of picnicking and lakeside views, Wayne Fitzgerrell has something for everyone. The presence of both modern electrical hookup sites and more rustic tent areas ensures that various camping styles are accommodated.

While some past visitors have noted minor issues like water hydrant functionality or the age of certain facilities, the overwhelmingly positive sentiment about the campground’s friendly atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings shines through. The community of campers at Wayne Fitzgerrell is known for its welcoming nature, fostering an environment where friendships are easily made and shared outdoor experiences are common.

In essence, Wayne Fitzgerrell Campground represents an accessible, versatile, and beautiful natural resource right in our backyard. It provides a unique opportunity for Illinois locals to explore the state’s natural wonders, engage in beloved outdoor activities, and create cherished memories, all while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts. It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a destination for genuine connection with nature and community.