Wilderness Lake Camping Center

Are you an Illinois local yearning for a tranquil escape into nature, where you can unwind by a lake, enjoy the peace of wooded surroundings, and perhaps spot some local wildlife? Wilderness Lake Camping Center in Martinsville, IL, offers just such an experience. This campground provides a serene setting for campers looking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the outdoors. It's a place where the sounds of nature replace city noise, offering a refreshing break for individuals, couples, and families alike.

Wilderness Lake Camping Center aims to provide a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. While some outdoor adventures thrive on ruggedness, this campground focuses on creating a clean and accessible environment where visitors can truly relax. From its spring-fed lake to its spacious, wooded sites, every aspect is designed to enhance your connection with the natural beauty of Illinois. This article will guide you through what makes Wilderness Lake Camping Center a suitable destination for local campers, detailing its location, available services, key features, and why it might be your next favorite outdoor retreat.

Wilderness Lake Camping Center is located at 13295 E Wilderness Rd, Martinsville, IL 62442, USA. Martinsville is a small community nestled in Clark County, Illinois, offering a genuine rural charm. The campground's address suggests a setting that emphasizes natural surroundings, which is indeed a core part of its appeal. It is situated northeast of Effingham, conveniently accessible off I-70 (Exit 136), and also reachable by taking Route 1 to West Union, then turning west at the flashing light and continuing for five miles before turning left for one mile to the resort entrance.

However, it is important for prospective visitors to be aware of certain aspects regarding accessibility, as noted in a customer review. One reviewer mentioned difficulty in locating the entrance, describing a "side road that almost required a 4-wheel drive vehicle to go up a hill," and suggested that a clear sign would be beneficial. This feedback indicates that while the park is reachable, the final approach might be less clearly marked than some might expect, potentially requiring careful navigation, especially for those with larger RVs or in less capable vehicles. Despite this potential navigation challenge, its position off a major interstate highway (I-70) makes it logistically feasible for campers traveling from various parts of Illinois. The rural setting means a quieter experience, away from heavy traffic, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in the natural environment. While guests should be prepared for potentially rustic final access, the overall location offers a secluded escape while remaining within a reasonable drive for many Illinois residents.

• Spacious and Wooded Campsites: The campground offers sites that are spacious and situated within wooded areas, providing a natural setting and a sense of privacy for campers.
• Access to Spring-Fed Lake: Guests have access to an 8-acre spring-fed lake on the property, which is a central feature for water-based activities.
• Boating and Canoeing: The lake is suitable for boating and canoeing, with a dock and ramp available for easy water access.
• Fishing: The lake is open for fishing, providing an opportunity for anglers to enjoy their hobby directly on site.
• Swimming: The lake also offers a swimming area, allowing campers to cool off and enjoy the water.
• Recreation Hall and Arcade Games: For indoor entertainment, there's a recreation hall equipped with arcade games and pool tables.
• Pavilion with Large Grill: A pavilion with a large grill is available, likely for communal use or group gatherings, offering a convenient space for cooking and dining outdoors.
• Laundry Facilities: The campground provides laundry facilities, which are essential for longer stays, ensuring campers can refresh their clothing.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean restrooms and showers are available, a crucial amenity for comfortable camping, as confirmed by a review highlighting the "Clean" facilities.
• Public Phone: A public phone is available, offering a means of communication, especially useful in areas where cell service might be limited.
• Ice and Firewood: Basic camping necessities like ice and firewood are available for purchase on site.
• LP Gas: For RV campers, LP (propane) gas is available, making it convenient to refill tanks.
• RV Storage: The campground offers RV storage, which can be useful for seasonal campers or those needing a secure place for their RV when not in use.
• Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RV waste, ensuring proper disposal and convenience for RV owners.
• Sports Facilities: Amenities like tennis courts, a sports field, badminton, and volleyball courts are available for recreational activities.
• Limited Off-Season Facilities: While open year-round, some facilities may have limited availability during the off-season.

• Natural Wilderness Setting: The primary highlight is the serene and natural environment, with 320 acres of wilderness and a 10-acre lake. It's truly a place to "relax and enjoy nature, with lots of wildlife."
• Spring-Fed Lake: The presence of an 8-acre spring-fed lake is a significant draw, offering clear waters for swimming, fishing, boating, and canoeing.
• Spacious and Wooded Campsites: The sites are designed to be spacious and nestled within the woods, providing a sense of privacy and natural immersion for campers.
• Clean Facilities: A direct highlight from customer feedback is that the campground is "Clean," indicating a well-maintained environment for restrooms, showers, and common areas.
• Recreational Variety: Beyond just camping, the center offers a range of activities including a recreation hall with arcade games and pool tables, tennis courts, a sports field, badminton, and volleyball.
• Convenience Amenities: Onsite access to essential services like laundry facilities, a public phone, ice, firewood, and LP gas enhances the convenience of your stay.
• RV Friendly Features: With RV storage and a dump station, the campground caters well to RV enthusiasts, making it a practical choice for those with recreational vehicles.
• Proximity to Local Festivals: The area hosts local festivals like the Route 40 Festival, the Chautauqua Festival, and the Popcorn Festival, offering opportunities for campers to experience local culture and events.
• Opportunities for Wildlife Observation: The natural setting and wooded areas suggest ample opportunities for observing local wildlife, adding to the outdoor experience.

Based on the available public information, Wilderness Lake Camping Center offers specific discounts for members of the Recreation USA Discount Camping Club. Members of this club can stay at the campground for a rate of $10.00 per day and are permitted to stay for up to one week per visit. This represents a significant saving for those who are part of this discount program.

However, beyond this specific Recreation USA offer, there is no widely advertised information about other ongoing promotions, seasonal discounts, or special packages directly from Wilderness Lake Camping Center. It is always a good practice for prospective campers to contact the campground directly. By calling their provided phone number, (217) 279-3396, you can inquire about any current or upcoming specials, group rates, or other deals that might be available. Campground promotions can change frequently based on season, demand, or specific events, so direct communication ensures you receive the most up-to-date and accurate information for planning your stay.

For more information, to inquire about site availability, or to make a reservation at Wilderness Lake Camping Center, please use the following contact details:

Address: 13295 E Wilderness Rd, Martinsville, IL 62442, USA

Phone: (217) 279-3396

Mobile Phone: +1 217-279-3396

Direct communication is recommended to confirm directions, current conditions, and any specific requirements for your stay, especially given past feedback about the approach to the campground.

Wilderness Lake Camping Center in Martinsville, IL, is an excellent choice for locals across the Illinois region looking for an accessible and authentic outdoor experience. Its primary suitability lies in its ability to offer a genuine escape into nature without requiring extensive travel, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer family vacations. For those living in Illinois, especially within a reasonable driving distance, this campground provides a convenient opportunity to disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in a serene, natural environment.

The core appeal for locals is the combination of its natural features and essential amenities. The presence of an 8-acre spring-fed lake for swimming, fishing, and boating offers a central hub for outdoor activities, catering to various interests. The spacious, wooded campsites provide a sense of privacy and the opportunity to truly enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness, a much-needed respite for many. Furthermore, the explicit feedback about the campground being "clean" reassures visitors about the quality of the facilities, a crucial factor for a comfortable camping trip.

While the note about potentially challenging access should be considered, it speaks to the true "wilderness" feel of the location, ensuring a more secluded experience once you arrive. For Illinois residents, this campground represents a chance to embrace the state's natural beauty, engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities, and create lasting memories in a clean and peaceful setting. Its balance of rustic charm and necessary conveniences, coupled with its relative accessibility from major routes, makes Wilderness Lake Camping Center a highly suitable and appealing destination for local adventurers and nature lovers.