Reservations and First Come First Serve sites available for your convenience!
Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground
Discover the beauty and serenity of camping at Crab Orchard Campground Or Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground
Crab Orchard Campground &Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground
Adventure Awaits
Natural Beauty and Recreation
Natural Beauty and Recreation
- Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or fishing, Crab Orchard Campground and Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground has it all. Our extensive network of trails and bike paths offers something for everyone, making it easy to explore the great outdoors.
Natural Beauty and Recreation
Natural Beauty and Recreation
Natural Beauty and Recreation
Nestled within a USFWS Refuge on 44,000 acres, Crab Orchard Campground boasts stunning natural beauty with three large lakes and several tranquil ponds. With plenty of trails and bike paths, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the breathtaking scenery that surrounds our campground. Boating and fishing year-round and for hunting watch our upcoming events page.
Family-Friendly Camping Destination
Located only a few minutes from SIU, Walkers Bluff Winery and Casino, Giant City State Park, Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest and many more local attractions from concerts to local artisans. Both campgrounds are situated on the Crab Orchard Lake and offer waterfront sites. Quiet, serene atmosphere, trails, birdwatching, and wonderful photo opportunities. There are opportunities for everyone of any age to enjoy!
About Us
Concessionaires The REEF LLC, operated by the Pettigrew Family oversee both Crab Orchard Campground and Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground, nestled in the heart of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. We offer a variety of activities for all ages, and we guarantee you'll have a great time. We offer RV sites, primitive sites and boat slip rentals.
Accommodations
Crab Orchard Campground Accommodations
Crab Orchard Campground, located within the scenic Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, provides a variety of accommodations to suit the needs of all campers, from those seeking full-service amenities to those desiring a rustic outdoor experience.
Campsite Options
• Full Hook-Up Sites
• Cost: $45 per night
• Features: Equipped with electric, water, and sewer hookups, these sites are perfect for RVs and campers looking for maximum convenience.
• Water & Electric Sites
• Cost: $35 per night
• Features: Ideal for campers who require partial amenities, offering water and electric hookups.
• Primitive Sites
• Cost: $18 per night
• Features: Designed for a traditional camping experience, these sites have no hookups and are perfect for tent campers or those seeking a closer connection to nature.
Facilities and Amenities
. Dump Stations
• Bath Houses
• Three bathhouses located throughout the campground provide hot showers and flush toilets for campers’ convenience.
• Camp Store
• An on-site store offers camping essentials, Firewood, ice, snacks, and other necessities, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Beach Access
• A dedicated beach area is available for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation, with a $3 day pass fee per person.
• Fish Cleaning Station
• Convenient facilities for cleaning and preparing fish after a successful day on the lake.
• Playground (Coming Soon)
• A family-friendly play area is under development to enhance the experience for young visitors.
• Laundry Facilities (Coming Soon)
• On-site laundry services will soon be available, adding convenience for longer stays.
. Bike and kayak rentals (coming soon).
. Discounts
• America the Beautiful Pass
• Accepted for seniors and individuals with an Access Pass, offering 50% off camping fees.
Crab Orchard Campground combines natural beauty with a range of accommodations and amenities to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. Whether you’re an RV traveler or a tent camper, the campground has something to suit your needs.
Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground offers 34 Water & electric campsites, 137 boat slips renting on daily or annual options. Bath house, fish cleaning station, fishing piers, boat ramp, activity center, laundry facility. Coming soon- Bait store, general store & playground equipment. Pricing is the same at both Campgrounds.
Boat slip rentals are $650.00 annually or $5.00 daily
Amenity basic pass $3.00 per person daily, $7.00 per person weekly, $20.00 per person monthly.
Activity Center Rental for events - call for prices. 618-922-4075
Activities
We have a wide range of activities to keep you entertained, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more. We also have a beach opening Memorial Weekend through Labor Day weekend. Watch for our playground and laundry facilities to open soon. Bike and kayak rentals coming soon.
Events
Throughout the year we host a variety of events, including music festivals, holiday celebrations, and more. Check out our calendar to see what's coming up.
Rates
Our rates are affordable and depend on the type of site you choose. Only one discount accepted at a time. Contact us for more information. 618-922-4075.
Location
Crab Orchard Campground
10067 Campground Drive
Carbondale, Il 62901
Bluegill Bay Marina & Campround
3697 Old Rt 13
Carterville, Il 62918
Rules
Important need to know
Rules and Regulations
1. Check-In: All campers, visitors, and guests must check in at the office upon arrival.
Checkout time: 3pm
Check In times 5pm Unless prior approval by management.
2. Campsite Maintenance: Campsites must be kept clean, and trash must be disposed of properly. No burning trash in fire pits. Only camping equipment related items kept outside.
3. Length of Stay: Maximum stay is 14 nights per site. Campers must vacate for 48 hours before returning to a different site.
4. Two-night minimum weekend stay and three nights minimum for holiday weekends.
5. Guests: Guests are the responsibility of the person they are visiting and must follow all campground rules.
6. Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Please be respectful of others during these times.
7. Pets: Must be leashed (max 10 feet), vaccinated, and not left unattended. Owners must clean up after their pets.
• No pets allowed in restrooms.
• No pets allowed on the beach or picnic areas.
8. Golf Carts: Allowed with proof of insurance and adult drivers only. Must stay on roadways and follow speed limits.
9. Vehicles: Speed limits apply throughout the campground. No reckless driving.
10. Boats & RVs: Must have valid insurance.
11. Fireworks and Firearms: Fireworks are prohibited. Firearms must comply with state laws.
12. Restrooms: No smoking in restrooms.
13. Safety & Compliance: Follow all posted rules. Violations may result in eviction without refund.
Disclaimer of Liability
Crab Orchard Campground and Bluegill Bay Marina and Campground are not responsible for personal injury, illness, property damage, theft, or loss occurring on the premises. Visitors assume all risks associated with recreational activities and agree to use facilities at their own risk. The Campgrounds are not liable for damages caused by natural conditions, weather, or third-party services. Visitors agree to indemnify and hold the Campgrounds harmless from any claims or damages arising from their use of the premises.
Thank you for helping us maintain a clean, safe, and enjoyable environment for everyone!
Refund Policy
Refund and Reservation Policy
• Reservations:
• Both first-come, first-served and reservations are accepted.
• Reservations can be made online or through the campground office.
• Refund Policy for Reservations:
• Cancellations 15 days or more before the reservation date:
• No refunds will be issued.
• A credit will be provided, which can be used for reservations within the same calendar year.
• Cancellations 14 days or less before the reservation date:
• No refunds or credits will be issued.
• Exceptions:
• Exceptions may apply for extraordinary circumstances and must be discussed directly with management.
• Boat Slip Rentals:
• No refunds will be issued for annual boat slip rentals at Bluegill Bay Marina.
Special Packages and Deals
Take advantage of our special packages and deals to make your adventure at Crab Orchard Campground / Bluegill Bay Marina & Campground even more affordable and unforgettable. Call for more information. 618-922-4075
Experience Crab Orchard Campground or Bluegill Bay Marina: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
