Devil’s Kitchen Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

Devil’s Kitchen Lake sits in the middle of rolling farm country about 20 miles northeast of Carbondale, offering primitive camping along the shoreline and on nearby ridges. The 810-acre lake draws mostly local anglers, leaving plenty of room for overlanders to find secluded spots among the oak and hickory. Fire rings are scattered throughout, and vault toilets are positioned at key access points.

Access is via gravel county roads that can get muddy after rain. The area stays open year-round, but spring and fall offer the best combination of mild weather and fewer mosquitoes. No reservations needed — just find a spot and settle in for some genuine Illinois backwoods quiet.

Primitive lake camping away from the crowds