Shagbark Group Area
03 reviews8420 Loon Lane, Sesser, IL 62884
Shagbark Group Area
$150.00 - $175.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$175.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Electric sites are $175 per night during Peak Season (May 12 - September 7) and $150 per night during Non-Peak Season (September 8 - March 27). An additional $25 fee is charged for use on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
About this campground
Nestled within the expansive North Sandusky Campground, Shagbark Group Area stands as the ultimate destination for family reunions, scout troops, and large outdoor gatherings. This thoughtfully designed group camping haven welcomes up to 200 adventurers with all the modern comforts you need for an unforgettable stay. Electric hookups power your basecamp while flush toilets and fresh drinking water keep everyone comfortable. Smooth paved roads and walkways make navigation easy, whether you're hauling gear or taking an evening stroll under the stars.
Shagbark Group Area Campground caters primarily to group camping, providing large, reservable sites with electrical hookups.
Historical SignificanceRend Lake stands as one of Southern Illinois' crown jewels, a testament to the region's commitment to balancing human recreation with wildlife preservation. This remarkable landscape has evolved into a premier destination where generations of families create lasting memories while sharing space with the abundant wildlife that calls these protected lands home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Southern Illinois seasons at Shagbark, where each month brings its own outdoor adventure. Summer months from May through September transform the area into a water lover's paradise, with warm temperatures perfect for swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation. Spring and fall offer crisp, comfortable days ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Recent autumn conditions have delivered picture-perfect camping weather with daytime highs reaching a pleasant 45°F and cool nights dipping to around 31°F—perfect for gathering around the campfire. The campground embraces a seasonal rhythm, closing during winter months when nature takes its peaceful rest.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the gentle lapping of Rend Lake's waters against the shore and the morning chorus of songbirds in the towering canopy above. Shagbark Group Area is embraced by a mature hardwood forest where majestic oaks and hickories create a natural cathedral. White-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk to graze in nearby clearings, while wild turkeys strut through the underbrush. The interplay of shimmering lake waters and dense woodland creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that photographers and nature lovers cherish.
Geological RegionDiscover the heart of Southern Illinois at Rend Lake, where 20,633 acres of pristine water create one of the Midwest's most spectacular recreational landscapes. This vast aquatic playground is cradled by ancient forests that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a diverse ecosystem where water meets woodland. The region's rich geological heritage has shaped a landscape of gentle rolling hills, fertile bottomlands, and the expansive lake that serves as the centerpiece of outdoor adventure in this corner of Illinois.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites are available at Shagbark Group Area, making it easier for campers with disabilities to enjoy the campground.
Sites SizeThe campground can accommodate up to 200 campers, indicating sites are likely designed for large groups.
Sites PrivacySites are grouped together for group camping, which may limit privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 001 within Shagbark Group Area is mentioned in reviews as offering privacy for group use.
Best CampsitesSite 001 in the Shagbark Group Area loop is specifically mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity for group sites is 200 campers.
Groups
Group camping is designed to accommodate up to 200 campers, with facilities such as flush toilets and electricity hookups available to enhance convenience.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout dedicated to group camping, offers privacy for gatherings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 12 to September 6 during Peak Season; Non-peak Season is March 27 - November 2. Closed November 2 - March 27.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov online website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityExclusively reservable through Recreation.gov; no walk-up availability indicated.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of reservation fees and potentially the first night's fee for late cancellations (less than 14 days prior for group sites).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Shagbark Group Area is situated within Rend Lake, offering a natural haven for a variety of activities. Campers can engage in hiking, biking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The region also supports hunting and interpretive programs. Visitors can enjoy scenic morning strolls, explore forests, and take advantage of the lake’s water-based activities.
Hiking
Hiking is among the recommended activities, supported by access to trails within Rend Lake’s natural surroundings. Specific trail details like length and difficulty are not provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Rend Lake, although details about fish species and specific fishing locations are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is supported within the waters of Rend Lake, but specific information regarding safety measures or designated swimming areas is not included.Biking
Biking is available in the region, but the terrain and recommended skill levels for trails are not specified.Boating
Boating activities are supported on Rend Lake, enabling campers to sail or ski the waters. Information on docking facilities or boat types is not described.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable feature of the Shagbark Group Area and surrounding Rend Lake. Deer and turkey are commonly seen roaming through mature forests.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are available to enhance educational and cultural experiences. Details regarding program topics or schedules are not described.Winter Activities
Information on winter activities is not provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are not explicitly mentioned, though general boating activities are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings/grills.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks, wildlife encounters (deer, turkey), and high summer temperatures.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and emergency services are located in Benton, IL, approximately 16 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 12 - September 7 annually
Trash and recyclingDetails about trash and recycling facilities, including locations and pickup schedules, are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the banks of Rend Lake, providing access to water activities like boating and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews indicate dissatisfaction with early check-in restrictions and through traffic not related to group visitors. Complaints about campground upkeep are also noted.
Campground Map
8420 Loon Lane, Sesser, IL 62884
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Accessible via paved roads; From I-57, Route 154 and Rend City Road are well-maintained and suitable for all vehicle types, including RVs.Nearby places
Sesser, IL - approximately 6 miles, Benton, IL - approximately 16 miles, Mt. Vernon, IL - approximately 25 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Benton, IL (~16 miles away) or Mt. Vernon (~25 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Shagbark Group Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the strengths of the group camping experience, as well as some frustrations with staff behavior and campground conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Shagbark Group Area is praised for its group-friendly layout and secluded loop, which allows groups to rent the entire campsite without interruptions. "Love it you can rent the whole campsite for a...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include staff strictness regarding check-in times, noise from early morning maintenance, and the condition of campground facilities. "We were made to wait in a line with our RVs in...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan for late check-in times to avoid being caught waiting in the heat, as early entry is strictly enforced. Bring ear protection if noise from maintenance is a concern.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention hot temperatures, with staff enforcing strict entry times in the afternoon heat. Fall is described as quieter, though conditions may vary.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The Group site was AWESOME! Well laid out and we had a great time," said Christina G. "Loved having the loop for our group," shared Jami R.
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 001 was mentioned specifically as part of the Shagbark Group Area and praised for its group camping setup but critiqued for traffic and the need for improvements.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites are provided, though no specific user feedback on accessibility features is available.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no concerns from pet owners were mentioned in reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025