Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Campground
This U.S. Fish & Wildlife campground sits on the shores of Crab Orchard Lake, offering 130 sites spread across multiple loops with electric hookups, restrooms, and boat ramps. The refuge itself spans 44,000 acres of southern Illinois wetlands and timber, with excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. Sites fill up during waterfowl season (October-January) and summer weekends, but shoulder seasons offer quiet camping with migrating birds and decent cell coverage.
The campground serves as basecamp for exploring the refuge’s coal haul roads that lead into the federally designated wilderness area. Roads can get muddy after rain, and some sections require high-clearance vehicles. Open March through October with a two-week stay limit.
Federal refuge camping with wilderness access
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | 6924 Headquarters Road, Illinois 62959 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Marion, Illinois |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 130 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $20.00 / night |
| Reservation required | Yes |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | March-October |
| Land manager | USFWS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Drinking water, Dump station, Fire ring, Hookups, Picnic table, Showers, Toilets, Trash service |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |