Fish and Wildlife Service manages this lakefront campground with full RV hookups for around $30 per night. Located within Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, the campground provides direct access to Little Grassy Lake through multiple entry points including drive-in sites and boat-in options for those arriving by water.
The forested setting includes both lakefront and interior sites, with an on-site marina offering kayak and canoe rentals plus fishing supplies. Daniel P. describes the facility as having a "cute little on site store for nick nacks, boat rentals, and fishing bait." Sites feature electric, water, and sewer connections alongside standard amenities like restrooms, showers, and a dump station.
Fishing and paddling dominate the recreational activities here, with the lake providing the primary draw for most visitors. Campers report that cooler weekends tend to be less crowded, allowing for more privacy between sites. The campground welcomes pets and accepts reservations, though some reviewers note maintenance could be more consistent.
For those exploring beyond this location, campgrounds around Makanda offer additional options in southern Illinois. Book ahead during warmer months when lakefront sites fill quickly.
Description
Little Grassy Lake Campground & Marina sits on Little Grassy Lake, located inside Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. It offers boating and fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Where 1,000 acres of crystal clear water , 4 miles long, 1 mile wide, up to 60 feet deep and 31 miles of wooded rocky shoreline create the most scenic lake in southern Illinois.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
RV ParkLittle Grassy Lake - Crab Orchard NWR is located in Illinois
Directions
788 Hidden Bay Lane, Makanda, IL 62958 From I-57 take 13 west to Giant City Road go south seven miles to Grassy road make a left 2nd road on the right is Hidden Bay Lane. We are at the end of the road.
Coordinates
37.64400085 N
89.16200036 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 51 min from Paducah, KY
- 57 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 54 min from St. Louis, MO
- 1 hr 56 min from Evansville, IN







