Located in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

Crab Orchard Lake Campground is situated in the northwestern portion of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Staying in the Crab Orchard Campground gives you a front row seat to view numerous species of waterfowl and shorebirds, and various other types of wildlife, also giving you the serene view of sunrises sunsets on the lake.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, located relatively close to the confluence of two of the Nation's great rivers, the Ohio and Mississippi, the refuge's 44,000 areas is ideally situated to provide a migration haven for the thousands waterfowl and other migrating birds that journey the Mississippi Flyway each fall and spring.

The refuge has many faces. On the north side of the refuge Crab Orchard Lake is an outdoor enthusiasts dream come true. This 7,000 acre lake offers two campgrounds, marinas, and several boat launching ramps. Throw in fishing sites, hunting opportunities, picnic areas, and swimming and you begin to understand why this refuge is one of the most visited in the Nation. Drive the roads on the refuge's south side and you discover another Crab Orchard filled with pristine lakes, nature trails with waterfalls, and a National Wilderness Area offering a place to seek relaxation, adventure, or something in between. On the refuge's east side, you will find great opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, biking and educational activities at the visitor center and you may find yourself coming back again and again.

Crab Orchard Campground offers 74 campsites. Water and electric hookups are provided on 67 sites, 7 sites are primitive with no water or electric hookups. The campground offers a dump station, hot showers, and flush toilets in order to provide a comfortable camping experience for guests. A swim beach is located on the eastern side of camping loop B, near the shower house.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is host to a multitude of recreational opportunities including hiking, picnicking, photography, boating, hunting, fishing, camping, wildlife observation, and environmental education.

You can enjoy fishing on our three lakes, and five ponds. Crab Orchard NWR is popular spot for crappie, bluegill, and bass. Be sure to follow all State and Refuge regulations. The Refuge has six trails that offer visitors numerous opportunities to experience the beauty of the Refuge. A portion of Southern Illinois' River-to-River trail runs through the southern portion of the Refuge.