Overview

Shagbark Group Camp is located on the western shore of Rend Lake near the Sandusky cove— the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.

Facilities

Shagbark Group Area Campground can accommodate up to 200 campers. The campground consists of electric hookups, flush toilets, and drinking water, in order to create a comfortable camping experience. A dump station and shower house are conveniently located nearby at the North Sandusky Campground entrance and the North Sandusky Maple loop.

Natural Features

The fields, forests, and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Woodland areas are made up of hickory, oak, and beautiful maples providing habitat to white-tail deer, turkeys, racoons, and many more native species. The shorelines are an excellent viewing area for waterfowl, shorebirds, and bank fishing the known crappie population.

Recreation

Within the area, visitors can access the Rend Lake Bike Trail—over 20 miles of paved pathways that guide riders through scenic woodlands and across views of Rend Lake and the Big Muddy River. The area offers abundant opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, hunting, swimming, and general outdoor exploration. Additional recreation features around Rend Lake include an archery complex with a 3D trail and elevated shooting platform, a dog park with a swimming feature, and two public swimming beaches (including the pet-friendly North Marcum Beach).

Nearby Attractions

North Sandusky Day Use Area

North Sandusky Disc Golf

Rend Lake Bike Trail

Important Notices

• An Additional fee of $25.00 will be added to the Use fee charged on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

• Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.

• See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.

• Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Available Activities

• Fishing - Fishing
• Camping - Camping
• Boating - Boating
• Biking - Biking
• Birding - Birding
• Water Access - Water Access

Directions

From I-57 take exit 77 and turn west onto Route 154. Turn south onto Rend City Road and continue straight into North Sandusky Campground. Shagbark Group Area is located in the back portion of the campground.

Contact Information

Phone: 618-724-2493

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip